China sets record soybean imports in July amid strong exports from Brazil and trade uncertainty with the US

In July 2025, China imported a record amount of soybeans for this month — 11.67 million tons, which is 18.5% more than in the same period last year. This is evidenced by Reuters calculations based on customs statistics of the PRC. The main supplier remains Brazil, which, thanks to a high harvest, ensures stable export volumes.

Analysts associate the growth in imports with concerns about possible complications in trade relations between China and the United States. In this regard, imports of more than 10 million tons are also forecast for August and September. China has not yet contracted any volume of American soybeans for the 4th quarter, awaiting the results of negotiations.

In January-July, China imported a total of 61.04 million tons of soybeans — 4.6% more than in the same period last year. Despite this, July volumes were 4.8% lower than in June. On Tuesday, Chinese feed mills purchased about 1.9 million tons of soybean meal for delivery in October-January, the largest deal of 2025.

Brazil’s continued dominance in the market is due to a prolonged peak in its exports, which is expected to last until the fourth quarter. Analysts warn that China may face a temporary imbalance between demand and supply of imported soybeans.

However, China’s domestic market is already facing a surplus of soybean meal. Record deliveries in the first half of 2025 and reduced demand from the livestock industry have led to a rise in inventories, which is putting pressure on local prices.

Tags: imports, soybean, USA