IGI Logo

The 2025/26 U.S. corn outlook predicts record supplies and total use, with a projected corn crop of 15.8 billion bushels, up 6% from last year. The increase is driven by both higher planted area and yield, with a 95.3 million-acre area the highest in over a decade. Total U.S. corn use is set to rise, particularly in feed and residual use, and exports are expected to climb to 2.7 billion bushels. However, the season-average farm price is forecast at \$4.20 per bushel, a slight decrease from the previous year. Global corn production and consumption are at record highs, but ending stocks are projected to decline.

Key Highlights

* U.S. corn production forecast at 15.8 billion bushels.

* Total U.S. corn use forecast up 1% to 17.3 billion bushels.

* U.S. corn exports forecast at 2.7 billion bushels.

* Global corn consumption to rise 2% to 1.274 billion metric tons.

* U.S. season-average farm price forecast down to \$4.20 per bushel.

The 2025/26 U.S. corn outlook suggests a record year for production and usage, though with lower prices expected for farmers. The U.S. corn crop is projected at 15.8 billion bushels, a 6% increase from the previous year. The higher yield and larger planted area (95.3 million acres) drive this forecast, marking the highest acreage in over a decade. Despite slightly smaller beginning stocks, total U.S. corn supplies are expected to rise to 17.3 billion bushels.

Prices are anticipated to decrease slightly, with the season-average farm price forecast at \$4.20 per bushel, down by 15 cents from last year. The decrease in price is expected to support a rise in domestic feed and residual use, projected at 5.9 billion bushels. Export levels are also set to increase, with 2025/26 U.S. corn exports forecast to climb to 2.7 billion bushels, benefiting from lower prices that enhance global competitiveness.

On a global scale, corn production will reach a record 1.265 billion metric tons, driven by increases in the U.S., Ukraine, and Argentina. However, global ending stocks are expected to fall, with global corn consumption rising by 2% to a new high of 1.274 billion metric tons. The largest increases in global imports are expected in China, Vietnam, and the EU.

In conclusion, while U.S. corn farmers face slightly lower prices, the record supplies and higher demand for exports offer a promising outlook for the 2025/26 season.

Above views are of the author and not of the website kindly read disclaimer