US wheat exports may accelerate in early 2026

U.S. wheat exports could pick up pace in early 2026 as market access improves and demand for high-quality wheat increases, according to Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat. Despite strong global production, gaps in protein levels and overall quality in some major growing regions may create new opportunities for U.S. supplies later this winter and into the spring.

Gilpin noted that several countries with large crops may lack sufficient volumes of wheat meeting higher quality standards, opening the door for renewed demand for U.S. wheat. This could support export sales as buyers seek reliable sources with consistent protein and milling characteristics.

He also pointed to improving market access for U.S. hard red winter wheat, particularly in Southeast Asia. Nigeria has returned to the market in a strong way this marketing year, at one point outpacing Mexico and becoming the leading buyer of U.S. hard red winter wheat.

Additional export opportunities may come from changes to the Food for Peace program, which is temporarily transitioning under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Industry representatives say the move could strengthen the use of U.S.-grown commodities in humanitarian programs, with Congress having the option to make the change permanent through legislation.

Tags: wheat, USA, export