LUBBOCK, TX (RFD NEWS) — Shipping U.S. grain to Mexico became more expensive in the first quarter, but export volumes held mostly steady. USDA says landed costs rose from the previous quarter for corn, soybeans, and wheat moving to Mexico by both water and land routes.
Water-route costs increased because barge and truck rates moved higher. USDA says winter weather, ice, and low water on the Mississippi River system helped push barge rates higher from late January into early March.
Ocean freight was mixed quarter-to-quarter but higher year-over-year, supported by strong dry bulk movement and higher bunker fuel prices. Land-route transportation costs eased for soybeans and wheat, while corn rose slightly.
Mexico remained a major buyer. First-quarter U.S. corn exports to Mexico totaled 6.07 million metric tons, up 8 percent from a year ago, while soybeans slipped 5 percent and wheat rose 4 percent.
For producers, Mexico’s steady demand still depends on competitive freight.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Mexico remains a critical grain customer, but higher landed costs can affect U.S. competitiveness.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Weather remains the primary driver for wheat price outlook.
March 11, 2026 10:58 AM
·
HTS Commodities’ Lewis Williamson provides updates on how growers are preparing for spring planting in an unpredictable agricultural landscape.
March 10, 2026 03:45 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how geopolitical developments in the Middle East can create energy-driven pressures that impact the supply chain and reshape demand for certain ag products.
March 10, 2026 03:27 PM
·
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on current cattle market conditions and shares advice for producers seeking to stay protected in an uncertain market.
March 10, 2026 03:08 PM
·
India trade tensions may affect the U.S. export outlook.
March 10, 2026 01:23 PM
·
USDA’s March WASDE report leaves U.S. corn, soybean and wheat ending stocks unchanged while adjusting global production estimates for South America.
March 10, 2026 01:01 PM
·
