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
Strong corn demand and cotton shipments support export outlook.
March 07, 2026 05:00 AM
·
New research shows that most farmers do not have a formal resiliency plan in place. Devin Fuhrman highlights how Nationwide’s Farm Risk Ready initiative supports farmers in building stronger, more resilient operations.
March 06, 2026 01:59 PM
·
The American Coalition for Ethanol reacts as the Farm Bill heads to a full House vote — while ethanol expansion, including year-round E15, is left out — as well as the USDA’s pursuit of global markets for ethanol.
March 06, 2026 01:45 PM
·
Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
March 06, 2026 11:32 AM
·
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
March 05, 2026 02:04 PM
·
Corn demand is rising thanks to ethanol expansion, yet year-round E15 remains missing from the Farm Bill—leaving farmers questioning the policy gap.
March 05, 2026 12:09 PM
·
