The torrential flooding in South America could soon disrupt exports from Brazil’s fourth-largest soybean port in Rio Grande Do Sul as floodwaters spill over into roadways and rail routes linked to the major Brazilian grain port.
Loaded grain trucks must travel an extra 250 miles per trip to circumvent blockades and reach the Rio Grande port. That, of course, is causing delays as well as increasing freight costs.
Brazilian grain traders exported more than 10 million tons of soybeans and 3 million tons of soy meals out of Rio Grande Do Sul in 2023.
Brazil’s southernmost state has received more than 31 inches of rain in a week, which has led to the declaration of a public emergency and the deaths of at least 100 people. 128 are still missing. More rain is in the forecast through the first half of May.
Trucking industry expert Lewie Pugh joins us to discuss rising diesel costs, challenges facing independent truckers, and the broader impact on agriculture and rural transportation.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss the latest developments surrounding the Trump/Xi summit, what the negotiations could mean for U.S. agriculture, and
trade enforcement concerns.
Huma Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Fred Nichols joins us to discuss rising interest in carbon-based products, soil health strategies, and fertilizer cost concerns.
The lower outlook follows months of drought stress across major winter wheat regions, where some producers have abandoned fields or shifted acres to grazing instead of harvest.
Farmers are closely watching upcoming U.S.-China trade talks as rising fertilizer and diesel costs continue to pressure exports, margins, and rural economies.
Based on USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork exports increased by six percent in March compared to the previous year, while beef exports weakened overall.
