Our major trade partners are in the middle of a population decline, a USDA study shows

New numbers show some of our largest export destinations are in the middle of a population decline.

Data from USDA shows major trade partners, like Japan, are on the list. There, population growth has been at zero, with a decline since 2009. Between 1990 and 2003, Japan was the top ag export destination by volume.

China is also in the same situation as they are expected to have negative population growth in less than 10 years.

Related Stories
China says some summit agreements are still preliminary, so export sales reports will be the proof.
Dr. Derrell Peel says long-term price relief will depend more on rebuilding the U.S. cattle herd than increasing imports.
Industry leaders say producers could still benefit even with many operations already using reduced-tax off-road diesel.
For producers, the next proof will be actual export sales, shipment pace, and buyer breakdowns.
Ethanol production climbed to a four-week high while inventories fell to their lowest level since early October, according to energy data analyzed by the RFA.
The latest Meat Demand Monitor shows strong retail demand for beef products like ribeye steaks and ground beef.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
Transportation challenges are mounting as droughts lower Mississippi River levels and push freight rates higher.
Waiting could risk leaving next year’s crop unprotected.
Michigan corn farmer and NCGA Vice President-Elect Matt Frostic will lead the task force. He joined us on Thursday to share his insights on the escalating corn crisis.
Speaking about his administration’s tariff strategy, Trump acknowledged that producers could face financial strain in the short term but promised stopgap support.