As we look toward the upcoming growing season, soybean trade and pricing are key topics of discussion among ag economists.
With global markets in flux and trade uncertain, especially with China, there is much focus on how U.S. producers will navigate these challenges.
Ag economist Joe Janzen from the University of Illinois provided insight into the soybean market, particularly exports and pricing.
“USDA has a pretty level-headed view of global ag commodity trade. And they’re not sort of, I think not overreacting to sort of the worst-case scenario of, you know, a hundred percent-plus tariffs, which would essentially, you know, shut down trade between the United States and China for many products.”
Janzen also notes a slight rise in the forecast for average farm prices, reflecting tighter supply conditions due to lower planted acreage. He says that while prices are expected to rise, there is still significant uncertainty because of global production factors, including crops from South America.
The phone call injected optimism into the soybean market, but actual Chinese buying and its timing will ultimately determine the extent of U.S. agricultural export benefits.
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