US soybean farmers disappointed as China excludes soybeans from tariff cuts
US soybean farmers have expressed disappointment after soybeans were left out of China’s new list of US agricultural products eligible for tariff reductions. The list includes corn, wheat, sorghum, meat, dairy products and vegetable oils.
US soybeans, however, continue to face a 10% duty in China. Industry representatives say this makes them less competitive compared with supplies from South America, particularly Brazil.
At the same time, Chinese purchases of US soybeans are covered by separate trade commitments. China previously pledged to buy at least 25 mln tons of US soybeans in 2026 and maintain the same minimum volume in 2027 and 2028.
Chinese state-owned agricultural companies have already purchased more than 12 mln tons of US soybeans in 2026. However, even if the 25 mln ton annual commitment is fully met, shipments would still be around 14% below the 2020–2024 average of about 29 mln tons per year.
For US farmers, the remaining duty is an additional pressure factor amid competition from South America and high production costs. Future Chinese purchases will depend on the implementation of existing trade commitments and market conditions.
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