Global Ag Markets Stabilize as High Prices Ease

Global agriculture is stabilizing after years of price swings, with flat to modestly rising returns expected as productivity offsets slower demand growth.

World News_Adobe Stock.png

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Global crop and livestock markets are settling into more balanced conditions after the volatility of recent years, according to the 2025 International Baseline Update from FAPRI–MU. Following record highs in 2022, global cereals and oilseeds prices have fallen on strong harvests and steady productivity gains. For 2025/26, most grain prices sit below last year’s levels, while oilseed and biofuel prices are seeing mild support from feedstock demand.

Projections assume stable policy, average weather, and moderate global growth. Price recovery is expected beyond 2026, but levels remain well below the 2022 peaks. Trade uncertainty continues to weigh on outlooks — particularly for soybeans — as no new U.S.–China agreement has been reached. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s grain exports are gradually rebounding despite reduced acreage, and Brazil’s crop growth continues to outpace much of the world. Dairy prices are trending higher in the long term, with slower expansion in the EU and Oceania due to environmental constraints.

Livestock markets reflect regional divergence: China’s demand for beef and pork is rising, while the U.S. expands dairy and beef exports. Biofuels also remain a bright spot, led by U.S. biomass-based diesel and Brazil’s ethanol program. Overall, productivity gains and slower population growth point to flat real prices through the decade — signaling stability, but limited upside for global farm revenues.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Global agriculture is stabilizing after years of price swings, with flat to modestly rising returns expected as productivity offsets slower demand growth.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Expert
Related Stories
John Mays with Central Life Sciences joins us to discuss the importance of pest management ahead of wheat storage and how protecting grain quality can support stronger marketing opportunities.
University of Arkansas researchers are working to help farmers reduce grain waste and get more value out of their crops.
According to a tweet from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, the full House vote on the Farm Bill will be held until lawmakers return from recess.
The House is moving forward with debate on the Farm Bill after a lengthy session in the House Rules Committee cleared the legislation for floor consideration.

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:

Policy clarity will determine the trajectory of soybean crush demand, but producers in Kansas have shown that expanding local crush capacity strengthens basis and marketing options.
Corn and soybean shipments continue to move at a steady pace as spring trade flows develop.
Growing milk supply may pressure prices ahead.
Bigger flocks are rebuilding egg and poultry supply.
Tight supplies are driving stronger early-year cattle prices.
Tony Adkins with Specialty Risk Insurance addresses current market challenges for farmers and ranchers and offers strategies to help producers navigate risk.