NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. soybean transportation costs declined late in 2025, but the improvement has not translated into stronger export performance, particularly in key markets like China.
According to USDA data, lower truck and barge rates helped reduce total transportation costs for U.S. soybeans during the fourth quarter, easing some pressure on export competitiveness. However, rising ocean freight rates offset part of those gains, limiting the overall impact on landed costs.
At the same time, Brazil saw sharply higher transportation costs — especially for trucking — yet continued to expand its dominance in global soybean trade. Brazil exported 12.8 million metric tons of soybeans to China in the fourth quarter of 2025, up significantly from the previous year, while U.S. exports to China dropped to just 1.44 million metric tons.
The divergence highlights a broader shift. Even as U.S. logistics costs improved modestly, global buyers continued to source from Brazil, where scale, timing, and established trade flows outweighed rising transportation costs.
Looking ahead, USDA projects U.S. soybean exports to decline in the current marketing year, while Brazil’s exports are expected to increase further, reinforcing the competitive gap between the two suppliers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower shipping costs alone will not restore export competitiveness.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Agricultural groups warn that the deal could limit competition and raise transportation costs for farmers
March 19, 2026 03:57 PM
·
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.
March 19, 2026 02:35 PM
·
As a part of the International Year of the Woman Farmer, women across the state are being recognized for shaping the future of agricutlure.
March 19, 2026 02:01 PM
·
As the strike at a JBS facility in Colorado continues, the National Right to Work Foundation is encouraging some employees to consider returning to work. The group says not all workers on strike may want to participate and urges those who choose to cross the picket line to resign from their union memberships.
March 19, 2026 01:49 PM
·
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.
March 19, 2026 01:22 PM
·
Higher prices are bringing relief to markets, but rising input costs are putting pressure on the producers.
March 19, 2026 12:59 PM
·
