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
Lawmakers request information from CEO Scott Stump over sponsorship concerns and potential implications for the organization’s nonprofit status.
February 17, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Lawmakers from Texas and Tennessee outline priorities for USMCA renegotiations, focusing on tariffs, China trade concerns, beef prices, and stability for U.S. agriculture.
February 17, 2026 12:14 PM
·
Adequate transportation capacity exists, but fuel costs and soft river demand could widen basis risk.
February 16, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Lower oil prices may trim input costs but pressure biofuel demand.
February 16, 2026 03:00 PM
·
Tight storage could widen basis and limit marketing flexibility.
February 16, 2026 02:00 PM
·
Large carry-in stocks across major crops could limit price recovery in 2026/27 unless demand strengthens or weather-related supply reductions occur.
February 16, 2026 12:30 PM
·
