WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain export inspections strengthened last week, led by corn and wheat shipments, while soybean volumes eased from recent highs. The USDA reported 3.41 million metric tons of grain inspected for export during the week ending February 19 — up 40 percent from a year ago.
Corn inspections reached 2.01 million metric tons, 6 percent above last year and pushing marketing-year totals to 37.7 million metric tons — sharply ahead of last year’s pace. Mexico, Japan, Colombia, and China were key buyers.
Soybean inspections totaled 669,865 metric tons, down from the prior week and well below year-ago levels. Marketing-year soybean exports now stand at 25.0 million metric tons, trailing last year’s 36.9 million metric tons pace. China remained the top destination, with significant volumes also moving to Mexico, Egypt, and Southeast Asia.
Wheat inspections reached 535,113 metric tons, up 37 percent from last year. Marketing-year wheat exports total 18.2 million metric tons, running ahead of last year. Pacific Northwest ports handled the largest share, particularly soft white and hard red winter wheat shipments to Asia.
Sorghum exports remained firm at 200,287 metric tons, largely to China.
Global Ethanol Trade Strengthens Corn Demand and Margins
Strong international fuel demand and late-year shipment growth pushed U.S. ethanol exports to record levels in 2025, reinforcing corn usage across rural production regions. Renewable Fuels Association data shows exports totaled 2.18 billion gallons shipped to more than 80 countries, up 13 percent from the previous year.
Export value reached $4.8 billion and $7.6 billion, including coproducts. December shipments alone climbed 4 percent to 220.3 million gallons — the second-largest monthly total on record — highlighting steady overseas reliance on U.S. supply. Canada remained the top buyer, followed by the European Union, India, the United Kingdom, and Colombia, while markets such as Jamaica, the Philippines, and Brazil expanded their purchases. The United States imported only about 4 million gallons, maintaining its status as a net exporter for the sixteenth consecutive year.
Exports of dried distillers’ grains (DDGS) totaled 11.6 million metric tons valued at $2.8 billion. Mexico led buying, with Indonesia, South Korea, and Vietnam also major markets despite late-year fluctuations.
Strong export activity helps stabilize ethanol plant utilization and supports corn grind even when domestic blending shifts.
