Soybean Crush Demand Lifts Prices Across Soy Complex

Strong crush margins — now at multi-year highs — are encouraging processors to expand production.

Soybean plants growing in a field backlit by the sun

bobex73 - stock.adobe.com

LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Strong domestic crush demand is driving higher soybean, soybean oil, and soymeal prices, according to analysis from the American Soybean Association and economist Jacquie Holland.

USDA’s latest WASDE report shifted 35 million bushels of soybean demand from exports into domestic crush, reflecting growing use tied to biofuels and livestock feed. That change helped support prices, with USDA raising the season-average soybean price to $10.30 per bushel.

Soybean oil is leading the rally. Increased demand tied to renewable diesel policy and tighter global energy supplies pushed soybean oil prices higher, with the USDA raising its price outlook 7 percent. Strong crush margins — now at multi-year highs — are encouraging processors to expand production.

Soymeal demand is also rising, supported by increased poultry and pork production as consumers shift toward lower-cost proteins. USDA raised soymeal prices by $10 per ton, reflecting strong domestic disappearance and export demand.

Globally, soybean supplies remain ample, but rising consumption — especially tied to energy and feed — continues to support the market.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong crush demand is supporting soybean price strength.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Bankruptcy filings reflect prolonged margin pressure, rising debt, and limited financial flexibility across farm country. Bigger operating loans are helping farms manage costs, but they also signal growing reliance on borrowed capital.
USDA’s February WASDE report, analysts expect minimal price movement as grain stocks remain steady. Traders weigh renewed Chinese soybean purchases, South American weather, acreage shifts, and upcoming USMCA trade talks.
A transition from traditional, technology-specific subsidies toward a performance-based, technology-neutral framework
Lower freight costs helped sustain export demand amid a challenging pricing environment.
Producers across the country spent the week balancing spring planning with tight margins and uneven moisture outlooks. Input purchasing stayed cautious, while marketing and cash-flow decisions remained front and center for many operations.
Income support helps, but farm finances remain tight heading into 2026.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Purdue University Professor of Agricultural Economics Dr. Jim Mintert shares a closer look at farmer sentiment and the key issues shaping the agricultural economy in January.
Stronger U.S.-Guatemala trade rules favor dependable, regionally integrated supply chains — rewarding execution and commitment over cost-only sourcing.
China-led demand continues to anchor soybean and sorghum exports despite weekly swings.
Shrinking slaughter capacity may delay heifer retention, complicating herd rebuilding plans.
Strong seasonal demand and manageable production growth continue to support poultry markets.
Clearer 45Z rules favor U.S. oilseeds, but final RFS volumes remain critical to locking in demand.