- Soybean prices in Q2’26 stayed range-bound, as large global supply capped sharp gains while strong crushing demand kept the market from falling deeply.
- Feedstock availability remained comfortable, led by heavy Brazilian export supply and higher U.S. acreage, which reduced the risk of tight availability.
- Downstream support came from soybean meal, feed demand, and biofuel-linked soybean oil use, though buying was selective in several markets.
Asia
In China, Soybean prices were about RMB 4.48/kg in April and ~RMB 4.49/kg in May, showing a marginal increase. China’s May soybean imports reached 11.79 MMT, while January-May arrivals stood at 36.94 MMT, showing that demand stayed active even after some monthly softness. Heavy Brazilian supply kept crushers well covered and reduced aggressive spot buying. In India, Soybean prices were around INR 67.07/kg in April and ~INR 69.46/kg in May, showing a approx. 3.6% increase. Soybean prices moved higher as local buying improved and domestic availability was tighter compared with China, giving the market stronger near-term support.
Europe
European soybean sentiment stayed softer in Q2’26 as import and crush demand weakened. EU soybean imports for 2026/27 were projected at 13.7 MMT, lower than the previous season, while crush demand was also expected to decline. The main pressure came from weaker crushing margins, wider use of alternative oilseeds, and policy-related compliance costs. Soybean meal remained important for poultry and swine feed, but demand was not strong enough to create a sharp rise in soybean buying. Policy uncertainty around deforestation compliance and biofuel use also reduced confidence among industrial buyers, keeping Europe more cautious than Asia.
North America
North American soybean prices were pressured by comfortable supply, but strong crush demand limited the downside. U.S. soybean planted area was estimated at 85.4 million acres, up from the previous year, while June 1 stocks stood at 1.06 billion bushels, showing better availability. At the same time, crush demand remained firm, supported by soybean meal exports and soybean oil use in biomass-based diesel. Drought risk gave some support, with part of the crop area facing dry conditions, but faster planting progress and larger acreage kept the market balanced.