Rain Needed Across the Peanut Belt
Peanut farmers across the southeastern United States have planted another record amount of acreage this year, continuing a trend of growth in U.S. peanut production. However, this increased planting comes with a caveat — growers in major producing states like Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and South Carolina are in urgent need of rain. These four states collectively account for about 70% of the total peanut supply in the United States, making weather conditions in this region critical for the national crop outlook.
— Tyron Spearman reports for Southeast AgNet:
Exports Drop 18% Year-Over-Year
While domestic production remains robust, the U.S. peanut export market is facing significant headwinds. Over the past 10 months, total peanut exports have declined by 18% compared to the same period last year. This downturn is raising concerns among growers, especially as many continue to seek contracts to market the remainder of their 2025 crop.
Mexico and Canada Lead Buyers List
Despite the broader slowdown, Mexico continues to hold steady as the top buyer of U.S. peanuts, importing between 125,000 and 129,000 metric tons. Canada, typically in close competition with Mexico for the top spot, is currently the second-largest buyer but has increased its purchases by 11% over last year.
China’s Purchases Decline Due to Shipping Delays
China, a key player in the international peanut market, remains in the third position for U.S. peanut imports. However, its purchases are down 20%, largely attributed to shipping delays at major ports. Chinese buyers remain interested in purchasing in-shell peanuts for processing into peanut oil, but logistical challenges have slowed the pace of trade.
European Demand Falls Sharply
Other major export destinations — including the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Japan, and Germany — have all seen substantial reductions in peanut imports from the U.S. over the past 10 months. These countries have cut back their buying by as much as 30% to 40%, though the reasons behind the drop remain unclear.
Market Outlook: Uncertainty Persists
As U.S. peanut farmers move forward with another year of record acreage, market uncertainty lingers due to weak export demand and weather variability. With much of the 2025 crop still awaiting contract sales, growers are closely watching both domestic conditions and international market signals for signs of improvement.