President Trump is doubling down on his efforts to level the playing field on trade, including doubling the tariff rate on China.
Arlan Suderman with StoneX says China is a unique trade partner but notes the President has no time to waste.
“The thing to understand about China is they value relationship negotiations. You may have different values than I do, but if we have a relationship of respect, we can do business. So, President Trump focused on that during his first term, speaking very respectfully on Xi Jinping, and so, as a part of that Chinese culture, they like to negotiate face to face. But they kept dragging things out, and they forced Trump into 13 face-to-face negotiations, Trump and his team, and that drug it out for several years and bought time for China, and Trump’s saying, ‘This time, I don’t have that kind of time.’”
Suderman says Trump might also feel like he has the momentum right now. China’s economy is struggling far worse than it was in Trump’s first term, leaving them particularly vulnerable. Trump doubled their tariff rate to 20 percent this week after a previous 10 percent last month.
Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
January 13, 2026 01:02 PM
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Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
January 13, 2026 12:34 PM
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Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.
January 13, 2026 06:00 AM
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Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
January 12, 2026 03:51 PM
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Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.
January 12, 2026 02:52 PM
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Traders are keeping a close eye on China’s soybean purchases as markets track export sales, shipments, and progress toward the ‘magical’ 12 million ton target promised last year.
January 12, 2026 11:57 AM
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