Thailand MOU Could Reopen U.S. Corn Export Market

Thailand will not replace major corn buyers overnight, but renewed access could create another outlet for U.S. corn demand.

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
Related Stories
Corn and soybean exports continue supporting demand levels.
manage risk as milk price volatility increases.
Brazil logistics issues may support U.S. soybean demand.
Brooks York with AgriSompo addresses how current market conditions and risk management are impacted by volatility in the Middle East, and considerations for farmers in the spring planting season.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided guidance on navigating the R&D tax credit, emphasizing record-keeping, eligibility, and maximizing potential savings as crop margins remain the key pressure point for farmers.
For agriculture, the meeting is seen as a potential turning point, with markets watching closely for any signals on trade, exports, and future purchasing commitments.

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:

Feed demand and premiums drive growth for the crop
Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper joined us to discuss the proposed E15 amendment in the Farm Bill, industry reaction to the legislation, and the outlook for year-round E15 sales.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
Rising ethanol stocks and softer gasoline demand bear watching, but stronger blending activity and exports offered some support.
Corn export demand remains supportive, but weak pork and rice sales show uneven global demand trends.