US pulse exports face rail challenges amid growing demand

The U.S. pulse industry is experiencing a period of growth and change, with record harvests and increasing exports to Mexico creating both opportunities and challenges for rail transportation. According to the latest Grain Transportation Report, U.S. farmers harvested 2.9 million metric tons of pulses in 2024, a 23% increase from the previous year. This surge in production, coupled with growing demand from Mexico, has put pressure on rail networks and border crossings.

Key developments include:

1. U.S. pulse exports to Mexico by rail were up 178% from the 5-year average between January and October 2024.
2. Rail capacity constraints have led to embargoes at key border crossings, particularly affecting dry bean shipments.
3. The creation of Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) in 2023 has provided new single-line rail access for northern U.S. pulse exporters to Mexico.
4. A potential boxcar shortage looms, with the nation's fleet expected to decline by 22% by 2030.

These factors are reshaping the pulse transportation landscape, with implications for producers, exporters, and rail companies. As the industry adapts to these changes, stakeholders are closely monitoring rail capacity, border inspection processes, and equipment availability to ensure the continued growth of U.S. pulse exports.