While U.S. soybean processing grows, Missouri farmers stress global demand and trade missions to keep exports strong.
Stronger Domestic Processing Meets Export Challenges
As soybean markets evolve, Missouri farmers are navigating a landscape where domestic processing and global outreach are both key to long-term success.
Recent years have brought a flourishing trend in domestic soybean crushing. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, U.S. soybean crush is forecast to climb nearly 3% in the 2025–26 marketing year, potentially hitting a record high of 2.49 billion bushels. That figure would represent 57% of all soybean use.
Research from the American Soybean Association shows practical crush capacity has surged 14% from 2023 to early 2025 — rising from 2.23 billion to about 2.55 billion bushels annually. With nine new or expanded plants already operating and seven more expected in the near future, this expansion could push capacity to 2.78 billion bushels by 2030. For farmers, the additional processing infrastructure means stronger basis levels, healthier local demand and more stable pricing for their crops.
“This rapid growth in crush capacity is changing the landscape for soybean marketing,” said Matt Amick, director of market development for Missouri Soybeans. “It provides farmers with more options close to home and ensures that soybean oil and meal continue to meet the needs of both domestic and international markets. At the same time, it highlights the importance of keeping exports strong, because we need both markets to thrive.”
Exports Remain Essential
While domestic demand grows, exports remain a critical pillar. Despite the shift toward crush, U.S. soybean meal exports are projected to reach a record 15.7 million metric tons in 2024–25 — a 9.5% increase over the prior year, fueled in part by competitive pricing and global demand. Reuters has reported that crush is projected at 2.4 billion bushels, continuing to outpace whole-bean exports, signaling a structural shift in how soybeans are utilized.
Missouri Soybeans and U.S. Soy continue to cultivate international relationships to ensure exports remain strong. In recent months, Missouri has hosted multiple trade teams, showcasing U.S. soybean quality, sustainability and research innovation. One recent success story of trade teams visits was a delegation from Turkey that expressed particular interest in biotechnology. The team toured production facilities and biotech research sites, underscoring Turkey’s interest in modernizing its feed and livestock sectors. Their engagement highlights the potential for Missouri soybeans to capture new demand in emerging markets.
“Trade teams are an opportunity to put Missouri soybeans on display for buyers who want assurance of quality and innovation,” said Mark Lehenbauer, chairman of the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council. “When a group like the Turkish delegation comes here and sees firsthand how our farmers are growing highquality, biotech driven soybeans, it reinforces why Missouri is a leader on the global stage. Every handshake and every visit builds trust — and trust drives demand.”
A Balanced Market Future
The dual engines of domestic crush capacity and international exports provide a balanced foundation for market resilience. New crush facilities are creating stronger local basis, sometimes boosting cash prices by as much as 23 cents per bushel within 20 miles of a plant. At the same time, expanded processing capacity reduces dependence on volatile global markets, while exports ensure that U.S. soybeans remain a vital component of global feed and food systems.
The expansion of domestic crush also supports U.S. energy independence. Soybean oil is increasingly being used for renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, providing new outlets for demand. Missouri farmers are positioned to benefit directly from these innovations as the marketplace for soy-derived fuels continues to grow. 
Policymakers and industry leaders are working to secure stable conditions to sustain this momentum. Biofuel policy, blending incentives and trade agreements will all play a role in shaping the future of soybean markets. Uncertainty remains with tariffs, shifting fuel mandates and construction timelines for new crush facilities, but the long-term trajectory is clear: Demand for soybeans is expanding at home and abroad.
For Missouri farmers, the balance between domestic processing and international trade is essential. The state’s growers are at the forefront of supplying the oil, meal and biotech-driven products that meet the needs of customers worldwide. Whether it is through investments in renewable fuels, exports of soybean meal or strengthening ties with international buyers, Missouri soybeans are powering progress.
“The bottom line is that our farmers succeed when markets succeed,” Lehenbauer said. “By investing in innovation here at home and building relationships overseas, we’re ensuring that soybeans remain a powerful driver of Missouri’s economy.”
