U.S. grain export sales showed mixed results for the week ending May 14, with corn leading gains while wheat exports declined significantly, according to the latest Weekly Highlights Report from exporters.
Corn sales jump on Asian demand
Net corn sales of 2.13 million metric tons for the 2025/2026 marketing year surged 71% above the prior four-week average. Japan drove the increase with purchases of 779,800 metric tons, including 205,300 metric tons switched from unknown destinations. South Korea followed with 463,800 metric tons, including 65,000 metric tons switched from unknown destinations.
Mexico purchased 342,200 metric tons despite decreases of 145,800 metric tons, while Colombia bought 157,600 metric tons and Spain acquired 124,000 metric tons. These gains were partially offset by reductions for unknown destinations totaling 356,500 metric tons.
Corn exports reached 1.45 million metric tons, down 13% from the previous week and 21% below the four-week average. Japan received the largest shipments at 441,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico at 385,300 metric tons.
Wheat exports decline sharply
Wheat net sales of 166,300 metric tons for 2025/2026 increased 25% from the previous week but exports dropped 48% to 230,300 metric tons. Japan led wheat purchases with 98,300 metric tons, while Panama bought 60,000 metric tons and Mexico acquired 22,000 metric tons.
The Philippines received the largest wheat shipments at 66,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico at 58,700 metric tons and Japan at 34,800 metric tons.
Other grains show varied performance
Sorghum exports jumped significantly to 150,700 metric tons, with China receiving 128,500 metric tons and Mexico taking 21,700 metric tons. Net sorghum sales of 14,500 metric tons included 130,100 metric tons for China and 10,000 metric tons for Japan.
Rice net sales of 53,100 metric tons increased notably from both the previous week and four-week average. Mexico led rice purchases with 31,100 metric tons, while Haiti bought 13,400 metric tons.
Barley showed minimal activity with no net sales reported and exports of just 1,700 metric tons split between Canada and Japan.
The weekly data reflects ongoing strong demand from Asian markets, particularly Japan and South Korea, while highlighting the volatile nature of grain export patterns. Exporters continue to navigate shifting global demand as the 2025/2026 marketing year progresses.
