USDA Raises 2025 Corn Production to Record 16.8 Billion Bushels

The USDA's September 2025 reports show a rise in U.S. corn production to a record 16.814 billion bushels, marking a 13% increase from 2024, despite a slight reduction in yield per acre to 186.7 bushels. This production boost is mainly attributed to expanded planted and harvested acreage, with corn planted area at 98.7 million acres, the highest since 1936. Soybean production is forecasted slightly down 2% from last year at 4.30 billion bushels, with a minor yield decrease but increased acreage. Cotton production is expected to decline by 8% from 2024. The USDA also adjusted its outlook for ending stocks, lowering global corn and soybean stocks month-over-month, while U.S. soybean ending stocks increased slightly due to slower export demand. Wheat ending stocks were lowered, and prices for corn, soybeans, and wheat showed minor month-to-month adjustments, reflecting shifts in production and exports.