Latest Corn Crop Estimate Surprises, Soybeans Also

The USDA has increased its expectations for 2026 U.S. corn and soybean production.

Corn is now seen at 16.034 billion bushels, potentially the second largest on record and up 1% from September on a higher average yield guess, now at 181.2 bushels per acre on harvested area of 88.506 million acres, but that would be down 5% from the 2025 all-time high.

In 2025, U.S. corn production was 16.934 billion bushels with an average yield of 186.5 bushels per acre on harvested area of 90.948 million acres.

Soybeans are pegged at 4.562 billion bushels, which would be the biggest crop in U.S. history, 1% more than last month and 7% above last year. USDA is expecting a record yield of 53.1 bushels per acre on harvested area on 85.881 million acres.

A year ago, soybean production was 4.261 billion bushels with an average yield of 53 bushels per acre on harvested area of 80.417 million acres.

The production numbers for both crops were at the high end of pre-report estimates and contributed to higher ending stocks projections.

However, these numbers remain in flux as harvest catches up to average and moves forward.

EDITOR’S TAKE:

With larger than expected crops heading to the market, farmers will be watching prices for both major commodities very closely. A lot will depend on global stocks available and whether they are below, above or just adequate to meet market demand. In the meantime, farmers able to harvest their crops in a timely manner will be pleased that any unexpected boost in yield will be helpful in offsetting rising input and diesel costs.

Now would be a great opportunity to push AgPack® as farmers finish this year’s harvest and start planning for 2027. AgPack is a unique program offering nearly $50,000 in exclusive rebates and discounts on items like tires, welders, irrigation systems and parts, fertilizer and much more. If you’re not familiar with all it has to offer, please check it out on our website www.certifiedagdealer.com or the Certified Ag Dealers app made especially for dealers.