WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. corn exports are creating stronger transportation demand this marketing year, while soybeans continue to lag under pressure from South American competition. USDA’s Grain Transportation Report says corn and wheat exports remain strong, but soybean exports are forecast at a record-low 23 percent of global trade.
USDA projects 2025/26 corn exports at 3.30 billion bushels, the largest total since 2020/21 if realized. Outstanding corn sales total about 756 million bushels, up 25 percent from last year.
Three countries remain key buyers. Mexico’s total corn commitments are about 913 million bushels, while Japan’s are about 571 million and Colombia’s are about 295 million.
Soybean commitments are down 18 percent from last year, and shipments are down 20 percent. China remains the largest buyer, but its U.S. soybean commitments are down 47 percent.
USDA expects soybean exports to rise 6 percent in 2026/27, but long-term U.S. market share remains under pressure from South American supplies and strong domestic crush demand. New-crop commitments also point to Mexico as a key buyer across corn, soybeans, and wheat.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Corn and wheat exports are supporting freight demand, while soybean export growth remains limited by competition and domestic crush demand.