Charting the Path Forward: Addressing Soybean Surplus and Market Realities
In an era of shifting markets, rising input costs, and global uncertainty, the question facing many producers is simple—but not easy to answer: What’s next for soybeans? That question took center stage during a recent Soybean Round Table Discussion, moderated by Mick Kjar, bringing together respected voices from across North Dakota’s ag landscape.
The panel featured Matt Perdue, President of the North Dakota Farmers Union; Justin Sherlock, President of the North Dakota Soybean Growers Association; and Scott Dethlefsen, Team Lead and Consultant with Hurley & Associates.
Together, they tackled one of the most pressing issues in agriculture today: soybean surplus—and how producers, policymakers, and industry leaders can chart a sustainable path forward.
Understanding the Soybean Surplus
The conversation began with a candid assessment of current market conditions. Strong yields, expanded acreage, and global production have created surplus pressure that continues to weigh on prices. Panelists emphasized that while productivity is a strength of U.S. agriculture, it also presents challenges when demand growth doesn’t keep pace.
This surplus environment forces difficult decisions at the farm level—impacting cash flow, marketing strategies, and long-term planning.
Opportunities Beyond the Commodity Market
Despite the headwinds, the panel highlighted real opportunities emerging from today’s challenges. Value-added processing, domestic crush capacity, renewable fuels, and new end uses for soybeans were recurring themes. Expanding markets closer to home not only strengthens demand but also keeps more dollars in rural communities.
Policy, investment, and collaboration were underscored as critical tools for turning surplus into opportunity—especially when producers, associations, and private industry work toward shared goals.
Navigating Risk in Today’s Market
Risk management was another focal point. From trade policy uncertainty to input volatility and interest rates, today’s soybean market demands a more strategic approach than ever before. The panel discussed the importance of sound marketing plans, advocacy at the state and national level, and staying engaged with organizations that represent farmer interests.
Education and communication—between growers and consumers, and between agriculture and policymakers—were identified as key to long-term stability.
A Forward-Looking Conversation
Moderated by Mick Kjar, the discussion struck a balance between realism and optimism. While acknowledging the challenges of today’s soybean market, the panel made it clear that North Dakota agriculture is not standing still. Innovation, advocacy, and adaptability remain powerful strengths.
For farmers, agribusiness professionals, and anyone invested in the future of agriculture, this conversation offers valuable insight into where the soybean industry stands—and where it may be headed next.
Watch the Full Panel Discussion
