Nov 13, 2026
Widmar: Export demand remains critical to 2027 price outlook
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An ag economist predicts export demand will significantly influence corn and soybean prices in 2027. David Widmar from Agricultural Economic Insights notes that while corn demand in 2026 has decreased slightly from 2025 levels, there is still hope for small gains.
"We’re looking for small gains in demand on the corn side," he states.
According to the November USDA supply and demand report, soybean exports are projected at 1.72 billion bushels, an increase of 80 million bushels from the previous year. U.S. corn exports reached 3.275 billion bushels, up by 175 million bushels from 2025.
Widmar acknowledges that soybeans have benefited from robust global demand but expresses uncertainty about production. He emphasizes the need to export significant quantities to China over the next few months to maintain the demand story, with potential backfilling later in the spring if there are disruptions in South America.
He suggests that increased demand could open up new marketing opportunities for farmers.
The USDA's next supply and demand numbers will be released on December 10th.