U.S. Grain Exports Reach New Heights, But Challenges Ahead

The U.S. grain and soybean export year for 2025-26 is drawing to a close, with exports expected to reach 158.1 million metric tons by August 31, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's August outlook.

While this year's total will be 5 percent below the record set in 2020-21, it will still mark the third consecutive year of increases and a significant jump from the previous year.

Corn exports have been particularly strong, reaching a forecast record high of 86.3 million metric tons during the current crop marketing year. This has helped the U.S. regain global market share in grain and soybean exports, which now stands at over 23 percent.