Returning from a recent trip to the Panama Canal, an Indiana farmer says drought in Central America continues to impact global trade. Carey McKibben told Brownfield Ag News that the lower water levels are slowing business with some of the United States’ largest trade partners.
The slowdown is impacting both imports and exports since domestic producers export a lot of corn and soybeans to Peru and Chile. And, in return, those countries send fruits, vegetables, and aquaculture back to the U.S.
This year is the second-driest year on record in the Canal’s history and ultimately became the first year to require trade restrictions due to extremely low water levels.
Currently, only 22 ships are allowed to pass through the waterway each day. The Panama Canal Authority is set to increase that number to 24 on January 16 if weather conditions are favorable.
U.S. Soybean Export Council CEO Jim Sutter joins us to discuss the impact of new trade development funding for U.S. soy.
April 27, 2026 01:08 PM
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Steady Panama Canal operations help support more predictable shipping conditions for global agriculture.
April 27, 2026 08:00 AM
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Grain movement stayed active, with barges showing the strongest weekly gain while rail and ocean signals remained mixed.
April 26, 2026 07:00 AM
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Arbor Day event launches statewide effort led by 4-H and FFA
April 24, 2026 05:03 PM
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Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
April 24, 2026 01:28 PM
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USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
April 24, 2026 11:57 AM
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