Why did China stop buying US soybeans?

China previously reduced soybean purchases from the U.S. due to months of tariff disputes and trade tensions, making American soybeans less competitive globally.

How much did China order in its latest US soybean purchase?

China's most recent order was for 792,000 metric tons of U.S. soybeans, its largest in two years.

Are US farmers confident about future soybean trade with China?

Farmers are cautiously optimistic but seek more assurance of a steady market due to past trade volatility and uncertainty.

Home / Business and Economy / China Buys Big: US Soybeans Flow Again

China Buys Big: US Soybeans Flow Again

22 Nov, 2025

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Summary

China placed its largest U.S. soybean order in two years.
This follows a meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi to ease trade tensions.
Farmers remain cautiously optimistic amid trade uncertainty.

China has recently placed its largest order for U.S. soybeans in two years, a move that suggests an easing of trade tensions between the two nations. This significant purchase comes after a high-level meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where China committed to resuming soybean orders.

This development offers much-needed optimism for American soybean farmers who have faced challenges due to months of tariff disputes, which previously made U.S. soybeans uncompetitive globally. Despite the positive step, industry leaders express a desire for more concrete assurances of a stable market moving forward, citing concerns about ongoing trade policy volatility.

While this order is a welcome sign, experts remain divided on China's long-term commitment, noting past delays and the financial incentives for China to source more affordable options from South America. Farmers are also diversifying demand and improving domestic processing to mitigate future risks.