NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. corn growers may have a new export opportunity in Thailand after U.S. suppliers and Thai buyers signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support future corn trade. U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says Thailand currently buys no U.S. corn.
LeGrand says meaningful Thai purchases have been absent for years. He says Thailand has not imported more than 100,000 metric tons of U.S. corn since the early 2000s, and last reached about 20 million bushels in the mid-1990s.
The new agreement could change that. LeGrand says Thailand may be ready to buy at least one million metric tons, or roughly 39-40 million bushels, with annual needs closer to 118-157 million bushels.
The Council develops export markets for U.S. corn, barley, sorghum, ethanol, and related products, including distillers’ grains.
LeGrand says the next step is execution, with exporters needing to sell and deliver the bushels.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Thailand will not replace major corn buyers overnight, but renewed access could create another outlet for U.S. corn demand.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Higher ocean freight rates can add export cost pressure even when grain demand remains active.
April 29, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Weekly export movement stayed solid, with corn and sorghum continuing to show the strongest overall pace.
April 29, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joins us to break down the latest USDA crop progress report, share insights from growers, and discuss how global factors are shaping planting decisions this season.
April 28, 2026 04:25 PM
·
House lawmakers push toward a Farm Bill vote as debate grows over E15, Prop 12, and input costs, with farmers seeking certainty and policy updates.
April 28, 2026 02:42 PM
·
High input costs and persistant drought is pushing Midwest growers to rethink planting decisions.
April 28, 2026 12:28 PM
·
U.S. Soybean Export Council CEO Jim Sutter joins us to discuss the impact of new trade development funding for U.S. soy.
April 27, 2026 01:08 PM
·
