Belonging to the pea family, soybeans are a kind of legume that has high oil content among other agricultural crops. These are high in protein and are often used as a meat substitute around the world for people who want to meet their protein needs but are unable to do so due to social and religious restrictions. Soybeans are grown all over the world and consumed as food for humans and animals. Like other agricultural crops, soybeans are grown worldwide and are among the most highly traded commodities.
There are several types of soybeans available in the market, which consumers demand. GMO soybeans, which are modified in the lab for large-scale production, and non-GMO soybeans, which are natural and unaltered, are considered cleaner for human consumption. Similar kinds are food-grade and feed-grade, etc.
The importance of soybean exports to agribusiness is undeniable. Soybean oil and meal are among the world's most traded crops. The primary growth drivers are demand as feed for livestock and as a source of protein for humans. It is a great source of plant-based nutrients, and the inclination to consume it is increasing. Soybean oil is one of the main resources used in industry and in common households for cooking and for developing renewable energy sources. Human foods like soy milk, tofu, and soy flour are highly consumed globally by vegan consumers or people with specific gluten allergies.
The soybean market analysis shows that demand for soybeans has skyrocketed by over 40% over the past few decades. The top has become popular due to the awareness among eco-conscious consumers that it can be used as a source of protein, milk, animal feed, and industrial oil. This has created a high demand in emerging and developed economies. Soybeans offer high nutritional value at a very low cost compared to other food sources.
The global soybean market, according to Towards FnB, was evaluated at USD 208.64 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to surge to USD 310.07 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2034. GMO soybeans have the highest global market share at 84%.
The key consuming regions are China, which recorded the highest imports in 2025: 7.48 million tons in January, and 5.2 million tons in February are expected. Followed by Europe, which received 1.8 million tonnes of soybeans from Brazil, and Japan, with 3.4 million metric tons of soybeans in 2024.
For a detailed soybean export market analysis, we need to look at the market leaders in production and exports of the crop. The following are some of the biggest soybean exporting countries:
The United States is one of the largest producers and exporters of soybeans globally. The region has exported 24.96 million metric tons of soybeans to China, 6.83 million metric tons to Mexico, and 2.38 million metric tons to Japan in 2024. Soybean production and trade have been supported by advanced agricultural technology, mechanized farming, and robust research infrastructure. The soybeans produced in the USA are valued for their consistent quality and high protein content. The country exports significant volumes of soybeans for food processing, animal feed, and industrial use. Efficient logistics, established trade networks, and reliable supply chains make the US a preferred source in the global soybean market.
Brazil is another one of the world’s leading soybean exporters. Brazil will export 340 million USD worth of soybeans to Spain in 2024. Brazil benefits from vast arable land, a favorable climate, and large-scale commercial farming. The country has rapidly expanded soybean cultivation, particularly in the Mato Grosso region. Brazilian soybeans are in high demand, especially in China, where they accounted for 31.5 billion USD in trade, driven by competitive pricing and large export volumes. Continuous investment in infrastructure and ports has strengthened Brazil’s position in the global soybean trade.
Argentina is a major soybean producer and a global leader in soybean exports. Argentina's soybean exports in 2025/26 (October – September) are forecast at 8.3 million tons. While it exports whole soybeans, the country is especially known for soybean meal and soybean oil exports. Argentina’s strong crushing industry, skilled agricultural practices, and established export channels support its role in international markets. Soybean exports contribute significantly to the country’s economy and agricultural sector.
The soybean trade can be better understood by looking at the rising trends in the global soybean export market. Here, we have listed some of the key trends of soybean exports that can help you understand the market better to explore more trade opportunities:
The global shift toward healthier and more sustainable diets has significantly increased demand for plant-based protein. Soybeans play a central role, widely used in meat alternatives, protein supplements, dairy substitutes, and functional foods due to their high nutritional value and versatility. Growing vegan and vegetarian populations, along with flexitarian eating habits, are driving soybean consumption worldwide. Additionally, food manufacturers are increasingly incorporating soy-based ingredients to meet consumer demand for affordable, high-quality protein, boosting global soybean trade and export volumes.
Demand for non-GMO and organic soybeans is rising as consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware. Many food brands and international buyers now prefer certified non-GMO soybeans for clean-label products. Organic soybeans are also gaining popularity due to strict farming standards, chemical-free cultivation, and premium pricing. Export markets in Europe and parts of Asia are particularly driving this trend, encouraging farmers and exporters to diversify production and invest in certification and traceability systems.
Sustainability and traceability have become critical factors in the global soybean trade. Buyers increasingly demand proof of responsible sourcing, deforestation-free supply chains, and ethical farming practices. Traceability systems help track soybeans from farms to end users, ensuring compliance with environmental and social standards. Exporters adopting digital tracking, certifications, and transparent supply chains gain a competitive advantage. These practices not only improve buyer confidence but also support long-term environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development.
Trade policies and tariffs play a major role in shaping global soybean exports. Changes in import duties, export taxes, and bilateral trade agreements can significantly affect pricing, demand, and trade flows. Political tensions between major importing and exporting countries often lead to market uncertainty and shifting supply chains. Exporters must closely monitor global trade regulations and adapt strategies accordingly to maintain competitiveness and minimize risks associated with sudden policy changes.
Soybean prices are highly volatile due to factors such as weather conditions, fluctuations in global demand, currency movements, and geopolitical events. Supply chain challenges, including rising transportation costs and logistical disruptions, continue to affect soybean exports. These uncertainties affect profit margins for exporters and buyers alike. To manage risks, industry players increasingly rely on market data, diversified sourcing, and improved logistics planning to maintain stable supply and pricing.
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Soybeans are consumed as a plant-based source of protein. The global vegan community has been loving it as a reliable source of nutrients that can fulfill their daily consumption. Not only soybeans but also the by-products, such as soy milk, tofu, and other items, are used by global markets to satisfy these consumers. Soybean oil is one of the most sustainable ways to replace natural oil and gas, which have significant environmental impacts. Soybean oil is an excellent energy source used in factories and production plants worldwide.
With more research and development, R&D specialists and researchers are exploring the soybean market to make it more beneficial and sustainable over time.
In this blog, we have discussed some of the primary factors, such as high nutritional value, multiple uses as animal feed, and the oil used for industrial production. The blog is a guide for people interested in understanding the global soybean market and its exports, to uncover the endless possibilities and business opportunities it offers. Soybeans are among the most traded commodities in the world, and the market presents its own challenges and scope; it also offers a positive outlook for exporters and buyers across the globe.
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