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2026-02-19 21:02:19
[USDA Outlook Forum: US Soybean Acreage Expected to Increase, Corn Acreage to Decrease in 2026] ⑴ The US Department of Agriculture released preliminary forecasts at its annual Outlook Forum on Thursday, predicting that US farmers will plant more soybeans and reduce corn acreage in 2026. Corn acreage is projected at 94 million acres, down from 98.8 million acres in 2025 (an 89-year high); soybean acreage is projected to increase to 85 million acres, up from 81.2 million acres last year. ⑵ Planting decisions face challenges due to low crop prices and rising input costs such as seeds and fertilizers. US agricultural income is projected to decline by 0.7%, although government payments are near record highs, expected to account for nearly 29% of producer income. Most Midwestern farmers rotate corn and soybeans to maintain soil health, but some flexible land can be adjusted based on profit expectations. ⑶ The USDA's corn acreage forecast is lower than the expected 94.9 million acres, while soybean acreage is higher than the expected 84.9 million acres. Analysts point out that after a record harvest in 2025, ample supply and low prices will curb corn planting, but strong exports and ethanol demand will limit the decline. (4) Soybean acreage is increasing, despite competition from trade tensions with China and a record Brazilian harvest. Strong domestic demand for soybean oil from renewable fuel producers continues to support prices.
