June 24, 2026

 

China expected to bring in 25 million tonnes of US soybeans

 

China is expected to import about 25 million metric tonnes of soybeans from the United States during the US 2025/26 marketing year (September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026), up from 22.6 million tonnes in the previous year, the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) predicted on June 21.

 

Speaking ahead of the fourth China International Supply Chain Expo, which is set to open in Beijing, Jim Sutter, chief executive officer of USSEC, said the projected increase represents a meaningful recovery for US soybean exports to China.

 

"The recent announcement regarding tariff reductions is a positive signal, and the US soybean industry looks forward to seeing those commitments translated into concrete policy measures," said Sutter. "Stability in the bilateral trade environment benefits both sides, and we are confident in the long-term direction."

 

China will remain one of the world's most important soybean markets over the long term, he added, citing strong demand from the feed and food industries and the country's push for high-quality development.

 

According to the US Department of Agriculture, China is expected to import 108 million metric tonnes of soybeans in the 2026/27 marketing year (September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2027), up 2 million metric tonnes from the previous year's projected level, reflecting continued growth in demand from the country's feed industry.

 

Beyond trade, USSEC plans to deepen technical cooperation with Chinese partners through initiatives such as the US-China Soy Innovation Center in Henan province, which was launched in 2023 to promote feed innovation, food science research, and industry training.

 

"We have shifted from a transactional mindset to a partnership mindset," Sutter said. "Rather than focusing solely on individual shipments, we are working to build long-term relationships with Chinese customers and support their evolving needs through innovation, technical expertise, and sustainability."

 

He said sustainability will remain a key area of cooperation, noting that US soybean farmers have made significant progress in climate-smart and low-carbon agricultural practices that align closely with China's green development agenda.

 

Looking ahead, Sutter said opportunities for bilateral cooperation extend beyond traditional feed applications to value-added food products and industrial uses, including bio-based plastics, adhesives, lubricants, and sustainable construction materials.

 

"The foundations of the US-China soybean relationship remain intact after more than four decades," he said. "Strong Chinese demand, high-quality US soybeans and a shared interest in supply chain stability continue to create opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation."

 

- China Daily