NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — Lower transportation costs are helping U.S. corn remain competitive in export markets, while soybean demand continues to face pressure from global competition. USDA data shows fourth-quarter shipping costs declined, supporting corn movement even as soybean exports weakened.
Transportation costs from the Midwest to Japan fell both quarter-to-quarter and year-over-year. Lower barge and truck rates drove much of the decline, offsetting slightly higher ocean freight costs. That helped reduce total landed costs for corn through both Gulf and Pacific Northwest routes.
Soybean costs moved in the opposite direction. Higher farm values pushed total landed costs slightly higher, despite similar transportation savings. That reduced competitiveness in global markets.
Export trends reflect the shift. Fourth-quarter corn exports rose sharply, supported by demand from Asia and Latin America. Soybean exports dropped significantly, driven by weaker demand from China and stronger competition from Brazil.
Looking ahead, USDA projects corn exports to rise this marketing year, while soybean exports are expected to decline.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Lower shipping costs favor corn, while soybeans face pressure.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.
September 18, 2025 03:07 PM
·
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Danny Munch explains how the Emergency Livestock Relief Program application process differs from other USDA aid programs.
September 18, 2025 01:39 PM
·
The modest cut should slightly reduce borrowing costs on operating loans, land notes, and equipment financing for agriculture, giving some relief to producers under heavy debt loads.
September 18, 2025 10:29 AM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
September 17, 2025 04:36 PM
·
Grain shippers face lower freight values thanks to weak soybean exports and strong rail service, but barge traffic and forward Gulf loadings suggest continued uncertainty as harvest ramps up.
September 17, 2025 04:01 PM
·
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
·
