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USDA Predicts Shift: More Soybeans, Less Corn by 2026

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) forecasts a decrease in corn plantings to 94 million acres in 2026, down from 98.8 million acres in 2025.
Farmers are expected to increase soybean plantings to 85 million acres, up from 81.2 million acres, driven by higher profitability and demand for soybean oil.
Corn exports are projected to fall to 3.1 billion bushels, while soybean exports may rise to 1.7 billion bushels.
Wheat production is also anticipated to decline slightly.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) forecasts a decrease in corn plantings to 94 million acres in 2026, down from 98.8 million acres in 2025.
Farmers are expected to increase soybean plantings to 85 million acres, up from 81.2 million acres, driven by higher profitability and demand for soybean oil.
Corn exports are projected to fall to 3.1 billion bushels, while soybean exports may rise to 1.7 billion bushels.
Wheat production is also anticipated to decline slightly.