Wedoany.com Report-Jun 10, China, the world’s leading soybean importer, recorded an all-time high of 13.92 million metric tons in soybean imports during May 2025, according to data from the General Administration of Customs. This marked a significant increase, more than doubling the volume from April, which had already seen a 73% rise compared to the previous month. The surge was driven by heightened demand and strategic purchasing, primarily from Brazil, to secure supplies amid global market uncertainties.

Chinese processors accelerated purchases of South American soybeans, particularly from Brazil, to ensure access to cost-competitive crops. In early April, buyers secured at least 40 cargoes from Brazil in a single week, reflecting proactive efforts to build inventories. This rapid procurement was spurred by concerns over potential supply disruptions, as global soybean prices faced upward pressure. Brazil, benefiting from a record harvest, supplied the majority of these imports, capitalizing on favorable weather and competitive pricing.

Lin Guofa, senior analyst at Bric Agriculture Group, stated: “Concerns over potential trade tensions, especially after Trump’s re-election, led to increased soybean purchases in Q4 2024, with shipments arriving in late 2024 and Q1 2025.” The focus on Brazilian soybeans was further supported by their lower cost, priced at approximately $420 per ton for February shipments, compared to $451 per ton for U.S. soybeans from the Pacific Northwest.

The record imports align with China’s robust demand for soybeans, driven by the need for livestock feed and edible oils to support its growing protein consumption. Despite efforts to reduce reliance on imports through domestic production, which reached 21 million tons in 2024, China continues to rely heavily on foreign supplies, with imports accounting for about 84% of its soybean needs. The May surge helped alleviate supply tightness that had forced some processors to pause operations earlier in the year due to delayed Brazilian shipments.

Soybean futures rose on June 9, 2025, reflecting tighter global availability and sustained buying activity. China’s strategic imports underscore its critical role in global agricultural markets, supporting Brazil’s position as a key supplier while navigating uncertainties in international trade dynamics.