US Harvests Shrinking as Weather Worsens, China Buys More Soybeans

Extreme weather is shrinking American harvests and pushing crop prices higher. This comes at a critical moment: China, the world’s top buyer of commodities, is increasing its soybean purchases to meet a trade deal made by the two countries’ leaders. The price jump is a rare bright spot for US farmers who have struggled with low incomes. But it also raises the cost of the goods China has promised to buy. The situation is developing as both nations work to manage a fragile trade relationship. For now, the weather is the main driver, and its impact is being felt from the fields to the negotiating table.