NASS forecasts higher soybean production for 2026 at 4.53 billion bushels

NASS reported a soybean yield forecast of 52.8 bushels per acre and production forecast of 4,530,000,000 bushels. Anthony Krillman said the yield is “52.8 bushels per acre” and that production “is forecast at 4,530,000,000 bushels,” an increase of 6.4% from 2025 driven by higher planted area and favorable August conditions across many eastern producing states.

Krillman noted state-level variability: North Dakota showed the largest month-to-month decline (about 11.8% or 4.4 bushels) because of hot, dry conditions in August, while several eastern states — including Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and Ohio — have record-high yield forecasts. NASS compared the forecast to industry expectations and found the number within the range but higher than many anticipated.