Corn Supply Falls While Feed Grain Prices Rise

Feed grain supplies may tighten in 2026/27, supporting higher corn and sorghum prices despite large crops.

corn grain silo stock photo_input costs and producer inflation_adobe stock.png

Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. feed grain supplies are expected to tighten in 2026/27, even with corn production still projected as the second largest crop on record. USDA’s Economic Research Service says corn production is forecast at 16.0 billion bushels, down 6 percent from last year.

Planted corn acreage is expected at 95.3 million acres, down 3.5 million from 2025/26. USDA projects harvested acres at 87.4 million, with yield falling from last year’s record 186.5 bushels per acre to 183.0.

Corn use is also expected to decline. Exports are forecast at 3.15 billion bushels, still the second-largest on record, while ethanol use is projected to remain unchanged at 5.6 billion bushels.

Sorghum production is projected to be lower, at 367 million bushels, with exports falling to 205 million bushels. China remains central to sorghum demand after accounting for most U.S. export movement in recent years.

USDA projects corn ending stocks at 1.96 billion bushels and the season-average price at $4.40 per bushel.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Feed grain supplies may tighten in 2026/27, supporting higher corn and sorghum prices despite large crops.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Expanded export financing could provide greater support for ag sales abroad if buyers and lenders use the additional tools.
Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt joins us to discuss House passage of the Farm Bill, its potential impact on farm profitability and stability, key policy compromises, and the outlook for Senate consideration.
The farm bill is still moving, but the toughest amendment fights were pushed into today’s session. ASA President Scott Metzger joins us to discuss the risks of tariff actions on soybean exports, concerns over trade policy and production costs, and the importance of Farm Bill updates.
New farm payment rules allow LLC members to have separate limits, but some local FSA offices are still applying outdated policies, creating confusion for producers.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Regulatory changes may influence farm costs and operations.
Lower hop stocks may support prices in the near term.
Biofuel policy decisions may influence planting economics. Today, March 18, is also National Biodiesel Day.
President Trump issues a 60-day Jones Act waiver to ease fuel shipments amid Middle East tensions disrupting energy markets, while biofuel policy gains focus.
Acreage shifts could influence spring marketing decisions.
Corn and sorghum exports continue outperforming soybeans.