Higher corn sales have pushed the ag export forecast up by half a billion dollars since November.
These brand new numbers from USDA show that despite the gain, it is still below last year’s levels.
The Department predicts ag exports this year will be around $170 billion, which is up by half a billion since USDA’s November report, but down more than two percent from last year.
Corn exports came in higher than expected after higher volumes and unit values, and ag imports are projected at $220 million this year, a six percent jump over 2024.
Newly confirmed U.S. Trade Rep Jamieson Greer has said he will make enforcement a key tool in his trade agenda, hoping to level the playing field for U.S. producers.
Related Stories
Despite tariffs having a less significant impact on exports, corn producers struggle with tariff-related increases on inputs, which complicates their bottom line.
Prepare for acute UAN risk and a brief urea shock; maintain steady ammonia and phosphate plans, and monitor potash basis on the coasts.
“A government shutdown impacts all Americans and has serious consequences, including for farmers. It just adds additional uncertainty, disrupts critical services.”
Agricultural exports continue to be a key contributor to rural employment. However, rural businesses still struggle to fill numerous job openings.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated this week that the government will intervene to help, following China’s withdrawal from the U.S. soybean market. One trader says the industry will remain in a holding pattern until Tuesday.
