Export Inspections Strengthen as Corn Leads Weekly Gains

Corn and wheat exports continue to outperform last year, while soybeans show steady but subdued movement compared to 2024.

shipping containers import export tariffs_Photo by Ralf Gosch via AdobeStock_91592445.png

Photo by Ralf Gosch via Photo by Ralf Gosch via AdobeStock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — U.S. grain export inspections improved in the latest reporting week, with corn, wheat, and soybeans all posting solid volumes as global buyers continued to draw from U.S. supplies. Corn again led the complex, marking one of its stronger weeks of the marketing year, while China returned in soybean shipments - logging more than 4 million bushels in exports for the week.

Corn inspections totaled 57.1 million bushels, pushing cumulative exports to more than 811 million bushels, well above last year’s pace. Soybean inspections reached 37.4 million bushels, with heavy movement through Gulf ports, though year-to-date volumes remain sharply lower than 2024. Wheat inspections totaled 14.5 million bushels, keeping the marketing year ahead of last year despite stiff competition from Black Sea exporters.

Sorghum moved about 40,400 bushels (all to China), while barley and oats contributed marginal volumes. Regionally, the Pacific Northwest handled significant wheat and corn movement, and the Mississippi Gulf dominated soybean traffic. Interior rail-based shipments also played a larger role this week, reflecting strong domestic logistics despite higher freight costs.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn and wheat exports continue to outperform last year, while soybeans show steady but subdued movement compared to 2024.

Related Stories
Louisiana farmers say high water levels routinely threaten crops, highlighting the need for critical infrastructure and sustainability efforts in the Bayou.
Tariff refunds are underway, potentially returning billions to importers, as agriculture groups push for a larger role in trade policy and investigations.
Patrick De Haan with GasBuddy joined us to discuss diesel price volatility and what farmers can expect as geopolitical tensions continue to impact energy markets.
Tight supply and logistics issues may raise input costs.

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:

Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided guidance on navigating the R&D tax credit, emphasizing record-keeping, eligibility, and maximizing potential savings as crop margins remain the key pressure point for farmers.
Justin Tupper with the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association joins us to discuss the USDA’s voluntary labeling updates, industry priorities, and the outlook for U.S. cattle producers.
Tight red meat supplies continue supporting livestock markets.
Higher machinery costs are raising per-acre production expenses.
As farmers and ranchers navigate rising input costs, lawmakers are considering a roughly $15 billion aid package to help, which would be tied to the spending bill for the war with Iran.
Lower costs improve competitiveness, but demand remains uncertain.