Harvest'25: Ag Markets Adjust as Harvest Wraps Up Without Access to Most USDA Data

Recent U.S.–China trade developments provided a small lift for soy markets, though most traders are waiting for concrete purchase data before making major moves.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — The ag sector has now gone a whole month without harvest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as the federal government shutdown continues. With combines finishing up in many regions, farmers are shifting their attention to transportation and storage decisions for the remainder of the season. Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report with the ag analyst perspective.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Williamson said the post-harvest focus is shifting toward basis levels, grain movement, and storage costs as producers wait for updated federal reports to resume. He added that recent U.S.–China trade developments have provided a small lift for soy markets, though most traders are waiting for concrete purchase data before making major market moves.

Related Stories
The Trump Administration’s new rule limiting CDL renewals for immigrant truckers is seeing mixed reactions in agriculture. While some support the change, it is raising concerns about higher freight costs and impacts on U.S. grain export competitiveness.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the updates to crop insurance subsidies, additional benefits for new farmers, and eligibility considerations for those entering the program.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discuss nutrition challenges in rural communities, barriers to healthy food access, and ways to improve dietary outcomes this week on Rural Health Matters.
At the Port of Brownsville, shrimpers are facing rising operating costs and increased competition, but many shrimp producers and local lawmakers remain optimistic about the industry’s future.
Higher prices are bringing relief to markets, but rising input costs are putting pressure on the producers.
Governor Jim Pillen joined us to share the latest on the Nebraska wildfires, discuss relief efforts, and outline considerations for producers navigating the ongoing situation.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.
FWSSR Communications Director Matt Brockman discusses the event’s competitions, safety preparations, and family-friendly activities during the opening weekend.
From Junior Heifer Shows to Mustang Magic competitions, the 23-day event brings together 4-H and FFA participants, livestock enthusiasts, and families to celebrate North Texas’ rich Western heritage.
CLAAS Senior Vice President for the Americas Region Eric Raby joined us to preview the new docuseries “CLAAS: Made for More,” premiering tonight at 9 PM ET only on RFD-TV.
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.