May 13, 2026

May WASDE Indicates Large Corn and Soybean Stocks, Tightens Wheat Outlook

USDA’s May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report offered the first official look at the 2026-27 crop year, projecting large corn and soybean supplies while tightening the outlook for wheat production. USDA forecast U.S. corn production at about 16 billion bushels, supported by expanded acreage and trendline yields, while soybean production was projected near 4.44 billion bushels. Analysts said the outlook points to ample supplies if favorable growing conditions continue through the summer. The report reduced the wheat production outlook to roughly 1.56 billion bushels because of drought conditions across parts of the western Plains. Wheat futures climbed following the report as traders reacted to tighter supplies and ongoing weather concerns. USDA’s projections are expected to shape grain marketing and risk-management decisions as farmers continue spring planting across much of the Corn Belt.

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Beef Import Debate Intensifies as Prices Rise

The Trump administration has delayed plans to reduce tariffs on imported beef after pushback from cattle producers and lawmakers concerned about impacts on U.S. ranchers. The Wall Street Journal reports officials had considered increasing beef imports to help ease record-high retail beef prices. Ranch groups warned expanded imports from countries such as Brazil and Argentina could hurt domestic producers already facing high feed and fuel costs. Financial Times reports the White House is now focusing more heavily on boosting domestic beef production rather than immediately lowering import barriers. The U.S. cattle herd remains near multi-decade lows following years of drought and elevated production expenses. Analysts say shrinking cattle supplies have contributed to rising grocery store prices for steaks and ground beef. The New York Post reported administration officials are also reviewing financing assistance and possible regulatory changes aimed at supporting cattle producers and stabilizing beef supplies.

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Florida Blueberry Growers Take 75% Loss from Freeze

Florida blueberry growers are reporting severe crop losses after a series of freezes in late January and early February damaged plants across central and northern parts of the state, industry officials said. Many farms lost between two-thirds and 75% of their crop, far worse than early estimates. Austin Sigety of Frogmore Fresh told Fresh Plaza his farm’s harvest began nearly two months later than normal after freezing temperatures destroyed early fruit. Growers said temperatures dropped as low as 18 degrees Fahrenheit, overwhelming traditional frost-protection systems. The lighter crop has tightened domestic blueberry supplies and kept prices firm through much of the Florida season. Retailers supplemented inventories with imports from Peru and Mexico before Georgia’s harvest began increasing supplies. Despite the losses, growers continued harvesting to maintain relationships with retailers and preserve market share ahead of next season, which many hope will return to normal.

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Farm Bill Debate Continues in Washington

Debate over the 2026 farm bill continues in Washington as lawmakers work through differences on commodity programs, conservation funding, crop insurance and biofuel policy. The House Agriculture Committee said the proposed Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 includes expanded credit access, conservation tools and support for specialty crop producers. Committee leaders say the legislation is designed to address inflation, trade uncertainty and rising production costs. Biofuel groups continue pushing lawmakers to include permanent year-round E15 sales in the legislation, calling it a major priority for corn growers and rural economies. Ethanol Producer Magazine reported renewable fuel organizations believe expanded ethanol access could strengthen demand for corn and increase fuel choices for consumers. Senate negotiations are expected later this spring, with agricultural leaders warning delays could create uncertainty for producers making long-term financial decisions.

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USDA Research and Crop Policy Remain Key Focus

Federal agriculture research and crop policy remain major issues as lawmakers continue discussions surrounding the 2026 farm bill and USDA priorities. The USDA Economic Research Service reported ongoing research tied to commodity programs, conservation, crop insurance and rural development will play a major role in shaping future agricultural policy. Agricultural organizations are also closely monitoring USDA reports on farm income, commodity costs and export demand as planting season advances across much of the country. The House Agriculture Committee said lawmakers continue debating funding levels for conservation programs, rural development initiatives and specialty crop programs as negotiations over the next farm bill continue. Farm leaders say research funding and access to credit remain especially important for producers dealing with volatile markets and weather conditions. Agricultural economists warn decisions made during the coming months could significantly influence producer profitability and long-term risk management strategies across the farm sector..

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Cinco de Mayo Sets Record Volume Avocado Demand

Record volumes of avocados moved through U.S. markets ahead of Cinco de Mayo this year, driven by strong supplies from Mexico and California and aggressive retail promotions tied to the holiday, industry officials said. Calavo Growers said shipments for the annual celebration likely reached an all-time high as demand for guacamole and avocado-based foods remained strong. Industry groups estimated more than 235 million pounds of Mexican avocados were imported into the United States in the four weeks leading up to Cinco de Mayo, surpassing previous records. Mexican exporters also reported shipments between 105,000 and 110,000 tons for the holiday week alone. Fresh Plaza reports supplies have expanded compared with spring 2025, when tighter inventories pushed prices higher. This year’s heavier volume has helped keep prices more affordable for retailers and consumers, according to growers and distributors. Industry officials expect strong avocado demand to continue through summer promotions tied to Memorial Day, soccer events and the Fourth of July.

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