Soybean Imports on the Rise
China's leading role in the global soybean import trade has seen a significant increase so far in 2026, with a strong rebound during the first four months.
Key Statistics
- Total seaborne exports of soybeans in 2025 increased by 4.6% year-on-year to 159.9 million tonnes.
- In Jan-Apr 2026, global loadings increased by 11.0% year-on-year to 61.7 million tonnes.
- Brazil accounted for 73.2% of global soybean exports by volume in Jan-Apr 2026.
The largest exporter of soybeans by far is Brazil, which saw a 5.9% year-on-year increase in shipments to 45.1 million tonnes in Jan-Apr 2026.
Top Exporters and Importers
The United States accounted for 23.6% of global soybean exports in Jan-Apr 2026, with a 33.9% year-on-year increase to 14.6 million tonnes.
Mainland China remains the top destination for soybeans, accounting for 59.9% of global seaborne imports, with imports increasing by 2.1% year-on-year in 2025 to 107.6 million tonnes.