President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week to secure a trade deal with Japan, including 15 percent baseline tariffs on most goods, including the automobile industry.
Under the deal, Japan will invest $550 billion in projects and maximize its purchase of U.S. agricultural goods, including soybeans, corn, and commercial aircraft.
The deal had been made in Japan, but was finally signed after weeks of negotiating. Under that agreement, it included 75 percent higher imports of U.S. rice and $8 billion worth of agricultural products, according to MSN.
Story via Annik Bao with MSN
Related Stories
Corn and wheat exports remain a demand bright spot, while soybeans are transitioning into a more typical late-winter shipping slowdown.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
Freight volatility and route selection remain critical to soybean export margins and competitiveness.
While short-term volatility remains a risk, softer ocean freight rates in 2026 could improve export margins.
