Rising input costs remain top of mind for Missouri soybean producers, but this season’s challenges extend beyond the field. While seed, fertilizer, fuel and chemical expenses continue to strain budgets, global trade tensions are adding another layer of uncertainty.
Export Outlook: Why It Matters for Missouri
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports Missouri consistently ranks among the nation’s top soybean producers, yielding roughly 265 million bushels in 2024 with an average of 48 bushels per acre. The Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council reported about 87 million bushels were exported during the 2023-24 marketing year.
The state’s soybean economy is linked closely to international demand, particularly from China, which once bought more than half of all U.S. soybean exports. That connection has weakened amid renewed tariff disputes and suspended import deals. Analysts estimate national soybean exports could fall by up to 20 percent without a new U.S.–China trade agreement. Lower export volumes typically pressure prices at harvest, leaving growers with less room to absorb high input costs.
In response, Missouri’s checkoff program is investing in local crush facilities, biodiesel production and soy-based manufacturing to reduce reliance on exports and strengthen in-state demand. Expanding domestic markets can help stabilize prices and give growers more marketing flexibility when global sales fluctuate.
Strategies to Minimize Input Costs
- Soil first, then fertilizer
Regular soil testing remains the most effective way to cut unnecessary fertilizer costs. MU Extension specialists recommend basing phosphorus, potassium and lime applications on current test results rather than fixed schedules. Maintaining near-neutral pH supports nodulation and nitrogen fixation, and spreading nutrient purchases over multiple years can help avoid buying at peak prices.
- Seed and variety spend
Seeding rates can be adjusted without hurting yield in most Missouri fields. Research from MU Extension shows that final stands between 100,000 and 120,000 plants per acre often achieve maximum yield potential. Matching trait packages to field-specific weed and pest pressure prevents overspending on technology that doesn’t deliver added value. On-farm strip trials provide reliable data to guide those decisions.
- Herbicide and chemical programs
Weed scientists continue to caution against cutting herbicide rates. Skipping residuals or delaying postemergence sprays can lead to escapes and resistance, which are more expensive to fix than prevent. A layered, full-rate herbicide program applied on schedule remains the most cost-effective approach. Consistent scouting helps growers target applications only where needed.
- Fuel, field operations and passes
Fuel and labor costs are often underestimated. Tracking field passes and gallons used per acre highlights opportunities to combine operations, such as pairing herbicide and foliar applications. Precision technology, including section control and auto-steer, reduces overlap and saves both time and fuel.
- Leverage checkoff and local demand
Missouri Soybeans’ checkoff programs fund research and market development aimed at lowering production costs and expanding domestic demand. Growers can access regional plot data, efficiency research and market updates through Missouri Soybeans and MU Extension. Participation in these programs ensures local dollars return as practical solutions on Missouri farms.
What to Include in Your Planning
Benchmark input costs using MU Extension’s 2025 budgets but update figures with your supplier quotes. Build flexibility into crop plans to account for volatile markets and variable fuel prices. Treat efficiency as a year-round priority — from nutrient management to logistics — and document savings to measure what works.
With global markets in flux, Missouri’s soybean farmers have limited control over prices, but they can control how efficiently they produce each bushel. By refining management, investing in soil health and capitalizing on local demand, they can maintain profitability even when trade winds shift.