NASHVILLE, TN – China’s long-running push for soybean self-sufficiency has quietly faded as imports continue to dominate domestic supply. New analysis shows China remains structurally dependent on foreign soybeans, even after years of policy efforts aimed at boosting domestic production.
China produced about 20.9 million metric tons of soybeans in 2025 but imported roughly 108 million tons, meaning more than 80 percent of the supply still came from overseas. That ratio has barely changed since 2018, despite repeated government plans and subsidies designed to lift self-sufficiency above 20 percent.
Imports surged largely because of Brazil, which supplied the bulk of China’s soybeans and allowed Beijing to sharply reduce purchases from the United States during recent trade disputes. Domestic production has plateaued near 20 million tons, constrained by land competition with corn and limited demand for food-grade soybeans.
Chinese officials now emphasize stabilizing production rather than expanding it, implicitly acknowledging that higher self-sufficiency is unrealistic. The assessment comes from retired USDA economist Fred Gale, who notes China’s soybean policy has shifted from ambition to acceptance.
Farm-Level Takeaway: China’s reliance on imported soybeans remains entrenched, shaping global demand and trade leverage.