The new U.S.-China tariff framework could improve market access for several major U.S. agricultural products while leaving commercial soybeans outside the initial package. Today’s Ag News Update also covers Mexican feeder cattle returning through Santa Teresa, higher beef prices, Mid-Atlantic corn basis, replacement cattle markets and rising wheat transportation costs.
Listen to today’s Ag News Update:
Ag News Update – Tuesday 09/29/2026
The U.S. and China approved product lists covering roughly $30 billion in trade on each side under the new 30-for-30 framework. China’s list includes corn, wheat, sorghum, beef, pork, dairy and cotton, but commercial soybeans are not included. At Santa Teresa, Mexican feeder cattle are moving into the United States under expanded New World screwworm inspections, with USDA teams examining every animal. USDA forecasts beef and veal prices up 9.4% in 2026, far above pork and poultry inflation. Mid-Atlantic corn growers are seeing harvest bids near $5.64 per bushel, supported by a strong local basis and early yields around 180 to 220 bushels per acre. Fall replacement cattle markets are showing a roughly $50-per-hundredweight spread between weaned and unweaned calves. USDA also reports wheat transportation costs to Japan rose across all major Kansas and North Dakota routes during the second quarter.
Today’s Ag News Highlights
– China’s tariff framework includes several major U.S. farm products but excludes commercial soybeans.
– Mexican feeder cattle are moving through Santa Teresa under added screwworm inspections.
– USDA forecasts beef and veal prices up 9.4% in 2026.
– Mid-Atlantic corn growers are seeing strong basis and improved harvest prices.
– Weaned calves are commanding a wide premium in fall replacement markets.