NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. soybean producers are entering the 2026 planting season under significant financial strain, with industry leaders warning that existing federal assistance has failed to cover a large share of losses tied to weak markets and export disruptions. The American Soybean Association (ASA) says additional farm support will be critical to prevent further economic deterioration in the sector.
ASA notes that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farmer Bridge Assistance Program helped offset some high production costs but did not address market-related losses on harvested soybean acres from the 2025 crop. Based on the group’s analysis, roughly 64 percent of those losses remain uncovered, leaving many producers with tightening cash flow and limited flexibility heading into spring.
Operational pressure is being compounded by uncertainty around future demand drivers. ASA is urging policymakers to finalize guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, set strong renewable volume obligations for 2026 and 2027, and complete rules supporting domestic feedstocks for biofuels. The organization says those actions are essential for restoring demand for soy-based biodiesel and renewable diesel.
Until those policy decisions are in place, ASA argues that a targeted supplemental support package is needed to stabilize farm finances and maintain solvency across soybean-producing regions.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
December 02, 2025 01:26 PM
Pressure on grain storage capacity and stronger export positioning are pushing more grain onto railroads, highways, and river systems as logistics become a key bottleneck this fall.
December 01, 2025 05:09 PM
·
Tryston Beyrer, Crop Nutrition Lead at The Mosaic Company, examines planning trends as producers weigh corn and soybean plantings for 2026.
December 01, 2025 03:27 PM
·
Brooks York with AgriSompo joins us to offer an update on what agents are prioritizing as the calendar year winds down.
December 01, 2025 03:06 PM
·
A leading Oklahoma veterinarian explains common symptoms of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) and warns owners to remain vigilant because it can spread quickly among horses.
December 01, 2025 02:16 PM
·
National FFA President Trey Myers joins Monday’s FFA Today to share his hopes and goals for the 2025-2026 year as he steps into this opportunity to lead and serve the next generation of agriculture.
December 01, 2025 01:00 PM
·
Despite the need for swift action, many ag lawmakers and industry groups argue that farm aid alone will likely not be sufficient to help farmers without improved trade relations with China.
December 01, 2025 12:21 PM
·
SDRP Stage 2 now helps producers recover shallow, uninsured losses from major 2023–2024 disasters, with streamlined sign-ups open through April 30.
December 01, 2025 11:16 AM
·
Corn exports remain strong, while soybeans and wheat shift week to week on river conditions and global demand.
November 25, 2025 02:51 PM
·
