NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — Ocean freight rates for bulk grain shipments climbed from the second to the third quarter of 2025, tightening cost pressures on exporters moving corn, wheat, and soybeans out of the U.S. Gulf and Pacific Northwest. According to data from O’Neil Commodity Consulting, rates to Japan rose sharply quarter-to-quarter, even though year-over-year costs remain lower and remain well below the recent four-year average.
Third-quarter Gulf-to-Japan rates averaged $54.36 per metric ton, up 17 percent from spring, while PNW-to-Japan rates averaged $29.08 per ton, up 7 percent. Gulf-to-Europe rates followed the same pattern. Rising Chinese demand for iron ore, coal, and steel exports helped lift global vessel use through July and August, pushing grain freight rates higher.
Operationally, shippers also contended with supply-chain disruptions, including Argentina’s low Parana River levels that slowed grain loading and raised vessel costs in September, as well as Chinese Golden Week stockpiling.
Looking ahead, vessel supply has grown 3 percent year over year, which could moderate rates, but China’s renewed soybean purchases are expected to increase Panamax demand.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher ocean freight raises export costs just as global grain competition intensifies.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.
October 20, 2025 11:17 AM
·
Slightly higher output amid softer gasoline pull points to steady corn grind — watch regional stocks and export pace for basis clues.
October 17, 2025 04:59 PM
·
Soybean farmer and Arkansas Lt. Gov. Leslie Rutledge highlights why the U.S. trade standoff with China is especially critical for Arkansas producers.
October 17, 2025 04:07 PM
·
NEFB President Mark McHargue provides an update from the Husker State, where farmers are working hard to bring in one of the largest harvests in recent years.
October 17, 2025 04:06 PM
·
Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
October 17, 2025 01:26 PM
·
National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew discusses the urgent need for aid as farm families face mounting input costs and long-term market uncertainty.
October 17, 2025 01:08 PM
·
President Donald Trump says a deal is nearly done on lowering beef prices, but he has not released details.
October 17, 2025 11:31 AM
·
Large carryover stocks continue to put pressure on commodity prices, creating uncertainty for growers looking to market their grain.
October 16, 2025 04:20 PM
·
Peel says Mexico has a much greater capability to expand its beef industry than it did 20 or 30 years ago in terms of its feeding and packing infrastructure.
October 16, 2025 03:59 PM
·
