American farmers shift to soybeans as Iran war drives up input costs
Updated
Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 30
American farmers shift to soybeans as Iran war drives up input costs
11 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 30
USDA expects 84.7 million soybean acres in 2026, up 4%, while corn plantings fall; farmers from Iowa, North Dakota and Kentucky report cutting fertilizer and seed use.
Rising Middle East-linked fertilizer and diesel costs are squeezing margins, with USDA estimating corn growers could lose nearly $150 an acre this year.
Some farmers are redirecting corn land to hay or expanding cattle herds as beef remains profitable, while a Farm Bureau survey found 94% said finances had worsened or stayed the same.
As American farmers abandon corn for soybeans, who will fill the global food gap and at what cost?
The Iran War broke the fertilizer supply chain. What happens when the next global crisis hits America's food supply?