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Soybean export outlook brightens as global demand and market diversification fuel optimism 

The CEO of the U.S. Soybean Export Council says growing global demand is helping strengthen the soybean outlook for 2026.

Jim Sutter says the organization is focused on expanding market access around the world. 

“We continue to have China as our number one market, but it has been down a little compared to other markets,” he says. “We’re seeing growth in places like Bangladesh, Egypt, and countries down in South America. It’s really important for producers to understand that there continues to be widespread diversification.”

He tells Brownfield the reliability of the soybean industry contributed to last year’s increase in export volumes.

“Thanks to the way that our U.S. soy farmers produce the crop and the value that comes from the sustainability aspect, there is better nutritional quality,” he says. “There is better digestibility, better energy levels, and better amino acid content.”

Sutter says USSEC’s recent structural realignment is expected to better position the industry to diversify the marketplace and help improve the bottom line for producers.

AUDIO: Jim Sutter, U.S. Soybean Export Council