Fiscal 2016 agricultural exports are projected at $138.5 billion, down $1.0 billion from the revised $139.5 billion forecast for fiscal 2015. This decline is primarily due to oilseeds and products, which are down $4.4 billio n as a result of lower expected soybean and soybean meal prices and reduced expor t volumes. Grain and feed exports are forecast to be up $1.1 billion from fiscal 201 5, largely due to higher expected wheat shipments. Cotton exports are forecast down $400 million due to a smaller U.S. crop. Exports of livestock, poultry, and dair y products are up $600 million as higher export volumes for a number of livestock products more than offset a decline in prices. Horticultural exports are forecast up $2.0 b illion to a record $36.5 billion with higher export values for fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, as well as tree nuts. Agricultural exports to China are forecast down $2.0 billion from fiscal 2015, primarily due to lower soybean values. Canada is exp ected to return as the largest U.S. export market for the first time since 2010.

U.S. agricultural imports in 2016 are forecast at a record $122.5 billion, $7.0 billion higher than fiscal 2015. Increases in import va lues are expected for most products in 2016, with the largest gains in horticultural, and sugar and tropical products. The U.S. agricultural trade surplus is expected to fall by $8.0 billion in fiscal 2016 to $16.0 billion. This would be the smallest surplus since 2007.

For fiscal 2015, the forecast of $139.5 billion fo r exports is down $1.0 billion from last quarter’s forecast. Imports ar e down $1.5 to $ 115.5 billion. **United States Department**  **of Agriculture**

Table 1--U.S. agricultural trade, fiscal years 2010-16, year ending September 30

Item 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2016 May Aug. Aug.

Exports 108.5 137.5 135.9 141.1 152.3 140.5 139.5 138.5 Imports 79.0 94.5 103.4 103.9 109.2 117.0 115.5 122.5
Balance 29.5 43.0 32.5 37.2 43.1 23.5 24.0 16.0
*Reflect forecasts in the August 12, 2015, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report. Source: Compiled by USDA using data from U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. Billion dollars Forecast fiscal year*
2015 AES-89 August 27, 2015 

# Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade

FY 2016 Exports Forecast Down $1.0 Billion from 2015 to $138.5 Billion; Imports at a Record $122.5 Billion

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----------------

The next release is December 1, 2015 

### Contents

Approved by the World Agricultural Outlook Board. 

### Electronic Outlook Report from USDA’s Economic Research Service and Fo reign Agricultural Service

## Economic Outlook

2 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA 

## Economic Outlook

U.S. economic growth steady, but stro ng dollar and economic challenges abroad weigh on trade

World economic growth is expected to rise to 2.9 percent in 2015 and improve to 3.3 percent in 2016. The United States continues to be the main engine of world growth, with 2015 growth of 2.3 percent down slightly from 2.4 percent in 2014. Strong labor market indicators point to more jobs and rising wages through 2015, lifting consumer spending. This is reflect ed in a strong growth forecast of 3.0 percent in 2016. However, weak forei gn demand and a strong dollar will continue to place pressure on exports, although continued low energy prices will somewhat offset these negative pressures.

U.S. economic strength stands in contrast with economic challenges elsewhere. In particular, emerging country growth is e xpected to be only 4 percent in 2015 and 2016, in contrast to an average growth rate of 6.2 percent over the previous decade. Much of this is due to a significant slow down in China, which is expected to grow at 6.6 percent in 2015 and 6.1 percent in 2016, the lowest rates since 1990. Largely driven by this relative U.S. economic vita lity, the value of the dollar has appreciated considerably in the past year. The real agricultural trade-weighted value of the dollar has increased by roughly 11.5 percen t since August 2014 and is forecast to maintain a relatively high value through 2015 and 2016. U.S. interest rates are expected to begin rising in late 2015, albeit slowly, while rates are expected to be held at low levels elsewhere. This ma kes the United States a relatively attractive destination for financial and business investors and places further upward pressure on the value of the dollar.

While the dollar appreciated significantly ag ainst most currencies in the past year, China has kept its dollar exchange rate re latively stable. On August 11, however, Chinese authorities announced a policy change that would allow its exchange rate to be more influenced by market forces. In the subsequent three days, the yuan depreciated by about 3 percent against th e dollar. While further depreciation is likely, Chinese officials are expected to intervene to pr event a rapid decline in its value. A weak yuan risks intensifying already-high capital outflows and would impose large costs on Chinese firms holding sizeable dollar-denominated debts. While a stronger dollar increases the relative price of U.S. products, the overall health of China’s economy is also an impor tant driver of U.S. agricultural exports. In recent months, China has been facing a significant slowdown in growth and substantial declines in its major stock market s. Its exchange rate policy vis-à-vis the dollar resulted in a nearly 20-percent incr ease in China’s real effective exchange rate since 2013, as other Asian currencies have weakened. This has significantly deteriorated China’s export competitiveness re lative to all of its trading partners except the United States, providing an additional drag on growth.

Global trade-volume growth is forecast to slow dramatically from 3.2 percent in 2014 to 1.6 percent in 2015, recovering to about 4 percent in 2016. This is a major departure from the trend prior to the 2008- 09 financial crisis, when trade growth averaged around 7 percent per year. The slowdown in global trade growth can be partially attributed to slower economic growth around the world in the aftermath of the crisis. However, recent research from the World Bank has suggested that3 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA changes in the structure of supply chai ns, less accessible trade finance, and increased trade protection are also contribu ting to the slowdown in the growth of trade, and suggests that future growth in trade will be lower than pre-crisis years.

Oil prices have continued to fall as O PEC’s oil production has increased, with supply reaching a 3-year high for July, and North American production remains strong. In addition to rising oil supply, demand-side concerns of slower economic growth, particularly in China, are also putting downward pressure on oil prices. West Texas Intermediate crude oil prices have recently fallen to their lowest level since March 2009. These low prices provide U.S. oil refiners, farmers, manufacturers, fertilizer producers, and farm product exporters a lower cost environment in 2015.

Gross domestic product (GDP) growth in Asia and Oceania is likely to be somewhat lower in 2015 and 2016. Japan is expected to avoid a recession as easing credit conditions have supported domestic demand and export expansion; however, deflation is again a concern for 2015. Indian economic growth has remained strong due to low oil prices. With some exceptions , the rest of South and Southeast Asia is expected to remain steady in 2015 an d 2016 despite widespread medium-term concern about debt levels, inflation, and slowing demand from China. Meanwhile, the EU is expected to continue its slow recovery, with expected GDP growth of 1.7 and 1.9 percent respectively in 2015 and 2016, despite continued uncertainty surrounding the economic crisis in Greece and the possibility of a Greek exit from the Eurozone.

Persistently low energy prices are taking a toll on Mexican and Canadian growth. The recovery from the recent downturn in the Canadian economy is less robust than previously expected despite policy adjustme nts, and Mexico’s growth rate forecast has also been adjusted downward. Recessi ons in Argentina, Brazil, and Venezuela will also sharply slow growth in South America in 2015. These challenges are expected to persist into 2016. In partic ular, Brazil’s economy is expected to require a long period of fiscal and monetary adjustment, and these reforms will be particularly difficult to implement in the prevailing environment of distrust in the Government.4 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Table 2--Macroeconomic variables affecting U.S. agricultural exports 1/ Real exchange rate 2/ CPI Share of world 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 Region/Country GDP (2009-2011)
World 3/ 100.0 2.9 3.3 8.6 2.6 1.7 2.3 NAFT A 26.3 2.3 2.9 2.0 0.5 0.4 2.0 Canada 2.5 1.3 2.2 15.0 4.9 1.0 2.0 United States 23.1 2.3 3.0 -- -- 0.2 1.9 Mexico 1.1 2.8 3.3 15.6 1.9 2.7 3.0 Latin America 7.7 0.2 1.4 10.7 1.2 20.9 25.8 Argentina 0.7 -0.3 0.1 -2.7 4.5 16.3 21.5 Brazil 3.4 -1.6 0.3 27.2 2.6 8.8 6.3 Chile 0.3 2.5 3.1 9.9 1.9 3.9 3.0 Euro Zone 24.1 1.7 1.9 20.5 4.5 0.4 1.3 Asia and Oceania 28.7 4.4 4.6 6.9 4.8 2.0 2.1 China 9.3 6.6 6.1 0.5 5.2 1.5 1.7 Japan 8.4 1.0 1.6 15.9 8.4 0.7 0.5 South Korea 1.7 2.7 3.4 7.5 2.7 0.9 0.7 Indonesia 1.2 4.9 5.0 5.3 3.8 6.6 4.1 Malaysia 0.4 4.8 4.9 13.5 3.8 1.9 3.1 Philippines 0.3 5.4 5.6 0.1 -0.5 2.0 3.9 Thailand 0.5 3.1 3.3 5.6 3.1 -0.5 1.7 Vietnam 0.2 6.3 6.4 1.3 -1.0 1.2 4.7 India 2.6 7.6 8.1 -1.4 -0.8 5.6 5.5 Australia 1.8 2.4 2.6 16.0 0.7 1.2 2.5 New Zealand 0.2 2.8 2.7 20.0 4.6 0.0 2.3 Middle East 4.2 2.5 3.2 5.4 -1.1 8.9 6.7 Turke y 1.1 3.2 3.5 16.2 -1.7 5.6 6.6 Africa 2.9 3.6 4.3 7.0 -0.8 7.0 6.7 South Africa 0.6 1.9 2.3 8.8 -4.0 5.0 6.3 1/ Real values have a 2010 base year

3/ World and regional values for Real GDP and CPI are GDP-weighted averages with the exception of the World Real Exchange Rate, which is weighted by U.S. agricultural exports. Source: Calculations and compilation by USDA, Economic Research Service using data and forecasts from Global Insight, the IMF, and Oxford Economics. 2/ Local currency per U.S. dollar. A negative growth rate indicates a depreciation of the dollar. World real exchange rate is U.S. agricultural trade-weighted. Real GDP

Growth rate Growth rate Growth rate

## Export Products

5 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Fiscal year 2016 grain and feed exports are fo recast at $32.4 billio n, up $1.1 billion from the 2015 forecast, driven by higher grain volume despite mostly lower prices. Wheat is forecast at $6.7 billion, $800 million higher than last year, as greater volume more than offsets lower unit values. The United States is expected to gain market share in South America, and East and Southeast Asia, in response to tightening supplies in Argentina and Canada. Feeds and fodders are down slightly as lower unit values for distiller’s dried gr ains (DDGS) more than offset higher volume amid robust trade with China.
Coarse grain exports are forecast at $11.1 billion, up $300 million in response to larger sorghum and corn export values. Co rn is expected up $100 million to $8.7 billion despite reduced unit values. Volume is higher on reduced competition from Argentina and Ukraine while unit values are lower on abundant global supplies. Sorghum is forecast $200 million above 2015 to $2.3 billion on higher expected shipments to China, though at significantl y lower prices. Rice exports are forecast to rise $100 million to $2.0 billion due to a slight increase in export unit value, offsetting a marginal decline in volume.
The fiscal 2015 forecast for grain and feed exports is up $800 million from the previous forecast to $31.3 billion. Wheat is down $200 million to $5.9 billion as lower volume is only partially offset by a slightly higher unit value. Corn is up fractionally to $8.6 billion and sorghum is nearly unchanged at $2.1 billion. Feed and other products are up sharply due to strong demand for DDGS by China—total value is up $800 million to $8.1 billion. Rice exports remain unchanged at $1.9 billion as a small increase in unit valu e offsets lower volume from reduced shipments to Mexico.

The fiscal 2016 export forecast for oilseeds and products is projected at $26.7 billion, down $4.4 billion from the 2015 estimate, driven by lower prices and reduced export volumes. Lower unit values ar e in response to record global soybean supplies and growing U.S. ending stocks. Prices are further pressured by a strengthening dollar, which is expected to reduce competitiveness in export markets and lead to declines in both soybean a nd soybean meal exports. Soybean export value is forecast to drop $3.2 billion to $18.1 billion while soybean meal is projected $1.0 billion lower at $4.0 billion. Soybean oil export value is also forecast to fall. Growing exports from South America are expected to hinder sales from the United States.

Fiscal 2015 oilseed exports are forecast at $31.1 billion, up $100 million from the previous forecast. Increased soybean volume and value offset declines in soybean meal, with other oilseeds and products accounting for much of the increase.

Fiscal 2016 cotton exports are forecast at $3.7 billion, down $400 million from the 2015 estimate. Unit value is expected to be relatively stable, reflecting little movement in prices. U.S. exportable supp ly is down sharply, due to a forecast 20 percent fall in production.

The fiscal 2015 estimate for cotton exports is raised $400 million to $4.1 billion due to increased export volume. Unit values are expected to remain steady. End-of-6 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2014 Economic Research Service, USDA season shipments have been strong as recently harvested Brazilian and Australian crops have been slow to ship.

Fiscal 2016 livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are forecast up $600 million from the previous year to $30.4 billion. Higher volumes are forecast for all meats. However, beef export value is forecast vi rtually unchanged at a record $6.2 billion as prices are expected to moderate. Pork is forecast to increase $300 million to $5.1 billion as larger volumes more than offset lower unit values. Poultry is forecast to decline by $100 million to $5.3 billion as generally lower unit values more than offset a small increase in volume. Dairy exports are forecast to remain essentially unchanged at $5.8 billion as dec lining global prices are expected to offset modest gains in export volumes. Exports of hides and skins are forecast up $200 million to $2.9 billion.

Fiscal 2015 livestock, poultry, and dairy export value is lowered $1.5 billion to $29.8 billion due to declines in poultry produc ts, dairy products, and beef. Dairy is down $400 million to $5.8 billion as U.S. cheese, nonfat dry milk, and whey face strong competition and low prices in a weak world market. Beef is lowered $300 million to $6.2 billion as demand remains weak in principal U.S. markets including Canada, Mexico, and Japan. Pork is unchanged at $4.8 billion while poultry products are lowered $600 million, as lower pr ices for broiler meat offset a small rise in volumes.

The fiscal 2016 export forecast for horticultura l products is a record $36.5 billion, up $2.0 billion from the 2015 estimate. Fresh fruit and vegetables are forecast at a record $7.6 billion, up $200 million. Exports to Canada and Mexico are expected to continue expanding. Processed fruit and vege tables are forecast at $7.8 billion, up $300 million. Unit values for several process ed products are expected to continue rising with demand growing in major markets. Whole and processed tree nuts are forecast at $9.8 billion, up $800 million primarily due to continued strong demand from China and Europe for almonds, pistachios, and walnuts.

The fiscal 2015 export estimate for horticultu ral products is forecast at $34.5 billion, down $500 million from the previous forecast due to weak fresh fruit and vegetable exports to Canada and Japan.7 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Table 3--U.S. agricultural exports: Value and volume by commodity, 2014-16

Commodity Fiscal year 2016 2014 2015 2014 May August August VALUE

Grains and feeds 1/ 27.368 23.243 36.424 30.5 31.3 32.4
Wheat 2/ 6.159 4.249 8.257 6.1 5.9 6.7
Rice 1.629 1.579 2.018 1.9 1.9 2.0 Coarse grains 3/ 9.291 8.154 12.480 10.7 10.8 11.1
Corn 8.453 6.531 11.089 8.5 8.6 8.7
Feeds and fodders 6.802 5.845 9.034 7.3 8.1 8.0 Oilseeds and products 31.497 27.944 34.895 31.0 31.1 26.7 Soybeans 22.614 19.838 24.099 21.1 21.3 18.1 Soybean meal 4/ 4.992 4.390 5.706 5.2 5.0 4.0 Soybean oil 0.644 0.635 0.810 0.7 0.7 0.7 Livestock, poultry, and dairy 25.363 22.874 33.809 31.3 29.8 30.4 Livestock products 14.937 14.144 19.995 19.2 18.6 19.3
Beef and veal 5/ 4.334 4.545 6.036 6.5 6.2 6.2
Pork 5/ 4.308 3.784 5.673 4.8 4.8 5.1 Beef and pork variety meats 5/ 1.199 1.259 1.609 1.9 1.7 1.7 Hides, skins, and furs 2.339 2.087 2.990 2.6 2.7 2.9 Poultry and products 4.711 4.374 6.407 6.0 5.4 5.3
Broiler meat 5/ 6/ 3.034 2.684 4.097 3.7 3.3 3.2 Dairy products 5.716 4.356 7.408 6.2 5.8 5.8 Tobacco, unmanufactured 0.988 1.030 1.114 1.1 1.1 1.1
Cotton 4.031 3.523 4.598 3.7 4.1 3.7
Seeds 1.462 1.323 1.725 1.7 1.6 1.6 Horticultural products 7/ 25.540 26.213 33.443 35.0 34.5 36.5 Fruits and vegetables, fresh 5.520 5.475 7.425 7.5 7.4 7.6 Fruits and vegetables, processed 5.750 5.597 7.608 7.7 7.5 7.8 Tree nuts, whole and processed 6.555 7.200 8.134 9.0 9.0 9.8 Sugar and tropical products 8/ 4.701 4.529 6.289 6.3 6.1 6.1 Major bulk products 9/ 44.712 38.372 52.566 44.6 45.1 42.7
Total 120.962 110.688 152.312 140.5 139.5 138.5

VOLUME

Wheat 2/ 19.839 14.866 27.081 22.5 21.4 27.3
Rice 2.732 2.990 3.374 3.8 3.7 3.7 Coarse grains 3/ 41.118 41.089 56.599 55.3 55.3 58.3
Corn 37.588 34.271 50.571 46.0 46.0 47.0
Feeds and fodders 16.970 15.160 27.796 18.5 21.1 22.0 Soybeans 42.101 45.811 45.188 49.0 49.3 46.9 Soybean meal 4/ 9.181 9.881 10.474 11.6 11.5 10.6 Soybean oil 0.673 0.767 0.851 0.9 0.9 0.9
Beef and veal 5/ 0.644 0.594 0.869 0.8 0.8 0.8
Pork 5/ 1.339 1.245 1.710 1.6 1.6 1.8 Beef and pork variety meats 5/ 0.601 0.580 0.795 0.9 0.8 0.8
Broiler meat 5/ 6/ 2.511 2.325 3.353 3.1 3.1 3.2 Tobacco, unmanufactured 0.134 0.145 0.152 0.2 0.2 0.2
Cotton 1.888 2.141 2.177 2.3 2.5 2.2 Major bulk products 9/ 107.811 107.042 134.570 133.1 132.4 138.6 Totals may not add due to rounding. 1/ Includes corn gluten feed and meal and processed grain products. 2/ Excludes wheat flour. 3/ Includes corn, barley, sorghum, oats, and rye. 4/ Includes soy flours made from protein meals. 5/ Includes chilled, frozen, and processed meats. 6/ Includes only federally inspected product. 7/ Includes food preparations, essential oils, and wine. 8/ Includes coffee and c ocoa products, tea, and spices. 9/ Includes wheat, rice, coarse grains, soybeans, cotton, and unmanufactured tobacco. Source: Compiled by USDA using data from U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. Forecast Fiscal 2015 October - June

--- M illion metric tons ---

-- $ Billion --

## Regional Exports

8 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA 

### Agricultural exports in fiscal 2016 are forecast at $138.5 billion, which is $1.0 billion below the revised fiscal 2015 forecast. Bulk export values are forecast to fall, primarily as a result of lower U.S. oilseed prices and export volumes. U.S. high-value product exports are forecast to rise in fiscal 2016, although a strong U.S. dollar could lim it export increases of these products. Canada is expected to return as the largest U.S. export market for the first time since 2010.

Asia

The forecast for China is $20.5 billion, which is $2.0 billion lower than the fiscal 2015 forecast, and Canada is fo recast to replace China as the largest U.S. export market. Soybeans account for about 60 percent of exports to China, and soybean values (both prices and volume) are expected to fall in fiscal 2016. U.S. soybean prices are exp ected to be down due to near-record domestic production and larger ending stocks. Despite these lower prices, U.S. export volumes are expected smalle r as a strong U.S. dollar and robust exportable supplies in South Americ a will limit U.S. competitiveness to China. As of mid-August, U.S. export sales to China for the upcoming marketing year were sharply lower than previous years. U.S. cotton sales to China are also expected to decline as a result of a smaller U.S. crop and weaker Chinese import demand. U.S. exports of sorghum and DDGS, however, are expected to continue to remain strong in fiscal 2016.

Japan is forecast at $12.0 billion in fi scal 2016, up $200 million from fiscal 2015. Although bulk values to Japan are expected to be down again due to lower soybean prices, U.S. pork exports are expected to strengthen (Japan is the largest U.S. pork export market), as are horticultural export values for products such as tree nuts. Exports to Southeast Asia are forecast unchanged from fiscal 2015 as higher wh eat exports are forecast to offset reduced soybean and soybean meal export values in markets such as Indonesia.

Western Hemisphere

Mexico is forecast up $200 million to $18.5 b illion as a result of stronger expected exports of horticultural products, pork, and grains—soybean and soybean meal export values, however, are expected to fall. The forecast for Canada is steady at $21.8 billion as expa nded horticulture exports offset lower oilseed values. Exports to South America are up $300 million from the fiscal 2015 forecast as a result of expected stronger U.S. wheat exports later in the fiscal year (from redu ced Canadian competition). Exports to Colombia and Peru are each raised $100 million.9 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA 

### Europe, Africa, and the Middle East

Exports to the EU are forecast at $12.0 billion, down $100 million from fiscal 2015. Higher horticultural exports of products such as tree nuts are expected to only partially offset lowe r values for soybeans and soybean meal (the EU is the second-largest U.S. s oybean market after China and the thirdlargest soybean meal market). Exports to Russia are unchanged at $400 million as a large number of U.S. agricultural exports remain banned.

Exports to the Middle East and Africa are forecast to remain unchanged as continued strong export competition from the Black Sea region into these markets limits U.S. export increases.

Revised outlook for fiscal 2015
The forecast for agricultural exports is lowered $1.0 billion from the May forecast to $139.5 billion with lower e xports to Japan, Mexico, and Africa.

Asia

The forecast for Japan is lowered $500 million to $11.8 billion as a result of slower-than-expected shipme nts of grains and oilseeds, as well as lower pork exports. South Korea is raised by $200 million to $6.4 billion as a result of record pork and tree nut shipments.

Exports to Indonesia are lowered $100 million primarily due to lower wheat and soybean exports. Vietnam is raised $200 million to a record $2.4 billion as a result of sharply higher cotton and tree nut exports. South Asia is raised $200 million as a result of larger export s to India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. India is raised $100 million as a result of strong tree nut and apple sales.

Western Hemisphere

The forecast for Canada is unchanged at $21.8 billion, but the forecast for Mexico is lowered $400 million to $18.3 billion. For soybeans, corn, and wheat, not only are values down but, in the first 9 months of fiscal 2015, U.S. export volumes to Mexico are also smaller. U.S. dairy product shipments are also down (Mexico is the largest U.S. dairy export market).

The forecast for Central America is raised $200 million, while the forecast for the Caribbean is lowered $200 million as a result of slower exports to Cuba and other markets.

The forecast for Peru is raised $200 million and the forecast for Colombia is raised $100 million

. For Peru, U.S. corn exports in the first 9 months of the fiscal year have already reached a record, and U.S. rice, soybeans, and soybean meal exports have reached records in Colombia. Brazil is lowered10 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA 

### $100 million as a result of smaller U.S. wheat sales, and Venezuela is lowered $200 million due to sluggish wheat, corn, and soybean meal shipments.

Europe, Africa, and the Middle East

The forecast for the EU is unchanged at $12.1 billi on. Despite a significantly stronger dollar, U.S. horticultural expo rts (which account for about half of U.S. agricultural exports to the EU) have continued to expand in fiscal 2015.

The forecast for the Middle East is unchanged at $5.9 billion. Although Turkey is lowered $100 million to $1.7 billi on as a result of reduced sales of cotton, this decline is offset by strong er exports to other countries in the region (such as the United Arab Emirates).

The forecast for Africa (North and Sub-Saharan) is lowered $300 million to $3.8 billion. If realized, this would be the smallest export level to Africa since 2006. The forecast for Egypt is lowered $200 million to $1.0 billion due to sharply lower U.S. corn sales. Nigeria is lowered $100 million as a result of reduced wheat shipments. In bot h of these markets, U.S. grains have faced strong competition from Black Sea region suppliers.11 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Table 4--U.S. agricultural exports: Value by region, 2014-16
Share of Country and region Fiscal year 2014 2016 2014 2015 2014 total May August August
Percent
Asia 54.868 49.855 66.634 43.7 60.9 60.7 58.9
East Asia 44.449 39.756 53.487 35.1 48.4 48.1 46.3 Japan 10.282 8.998 13.360 8.8 12.3 11.8 12.0
China 22.992 19.754 25.699 16.9 22.5 22.5 20.5 Hong Kong 3.084 3.224 4.052 2.7 4.2 4.2 4.2
Taiwan 2.796 2.604 3.491 2.3 3.2 3.2 3.2
South Korea 5.285 5.163 6.867 4.5 6.2 6.4 6.4
Southeast Asia 9.184 8.523 11.447 7.5 10.7 10.6 10.6
Indonesia 2.379 1.934 2.965 1.9 2.6 2.5 2.5 Philippines 2.154 1.910 2.774 1.8 2.5 2.5 2.5 Malaysia 0.814 0.669 1.010 0.7 0.9 0.8 0.8
Thailand 1.338 1.397 1.613 1.1 1.6 1.6 1.6
Vietnam 1.847 2.007 2.232 1.5 2.2 2.4 2.4
South Asia 1.235 1.577 1.699 1.1 1.8 2.0 2.0
India 0.652 0.779 0.988 0.6 0.9 1.0 1.0 Western Hemisphere 42.738 40.710 56.673 37.2 54.3 53.8 54.5
North America 30.872 29.760 41.285 27.1 40.5 40.0 40.3
Canada 16.219 16.209 21.787 14.3 21.8 21.8 21.8
Mexico 14.652 13.551 19.498 12.8 18.7 18.3 18.5
Caribbean 2.811 2.611 3.647 2.4 3.6 3.4 3.4 Dominican Republic 0.995 0.931 1.281 0.8 1.2 1.2 1.2
Central America 2.881 2.851 3.775 2.5 3.5 3.7 3.7
South America 6.174 5.489 7.966 5.2 6.7 6.7 7.0
Brazil 1.221 0.604 1.642 1.1 0.9 0.8 0.8
Colombia 1.876 2.035 2.311 1.5 2.4 2.5 2.6
Peru 0.713 1.015 0.958 0.6 1.0 1.2 1.3
Venezuela 1.061 0.610 1.323 0.9 1.0 0.8 0.8 Europe/Eurasia 11.947 10.800 14.839 9.7 13.4 13.4 13.3 European Union-28 10.225 9.808 12.710 8.3 12.1 12.1 12.0 Other Europe 1/ 0.431 0.454 0.569 0.4 0.6 0.6 0.6
FSU-12 2/ 1.292 0.537 1.561 1.0 0.7 0.7 0.7
Russia 0.977 0.354 1.165 0.8 0.4 0.4 0.4
Middle East 5.535 4.843 6.677 4.4 5.9 5.9 5.9 Turkey 1.821 1.442 2.066 1.4 1.8 1.7 1.7
Saudi Arabia 1.148 1.008 1.405 0.9 1.2 1.2 1.2
Africa 4.135 2.920 5.198 3.4 4.1 3.8 3.8
North Africa 2.374 1.469 2.826 1.9 2.0 1.8 1.8 Egypt 1.526 0.806 1.851 1.2 1.2 1.0 1.0
Sub-Saharan Africa 1.761 1.451 2.373 1.6 2.1 2.0 2.0 Nigeria 0.690 0.488 0.901 0.6 0.8 0.7 0.7
Oceania 1.566 1.560 2.117 1.4 2.1 2.1 2.1 Trans-shipments via Canada 3/ 0.172 0.000 0.172 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0

Total 120.962 110.688 152.312 100.0 140.5 139.5 138.5 Total may not add due to rounding. 1/ Major countries include Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and former Yugoslav states. 2/ The former 15 Republics of the Soviet Union, not including the 3 Baltic Republics. 3/ Trans-shipments through Canada have not been allocated to final destination, but are included in the total. Source: Compiled by USDA using data from U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. October to June

-- $ Billion -- 2015 Forecast fiscal year

-- $ Billion --

## Import Products

12 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA The steady growth of the domestic econom y is mirrored by moderate increases in U.S. agricultural imports as projected in fiscal years 2015 and 2016. Compared to average import growth of 12 percent from 2010 to 2012, the $115.5 and $122.5 billion import projections for 2015 and 2016 represent only 5.7- and 6-percent growth, respectively. These estimated increas es in import values are reflected in the 2.0- and 1.7-percent growth in import volumes, plus the 3.7- and 4.3-percent rise in import unit values, as projected in 2015 and 2016, respectively. Low commodity prices for grains, oilseeds, and many tropical products, as well as the strong dollar, are putting downward pressure on import prices. The strong dollar also helps boost domestic supply by making exports less price-competitive internationally, which assists in keeping food producer prices low domestically. Nevertheless, as the economy accelerates later this year into 2016 and the dollar remains strong, import demand is expected to eventually accel erate (based on historical trends).

World food commodity prices have declin ed 10 percent thus far from year-end 2014 levels, according to the International Mone tary Fund, while beverage prices fell 6 percent. A large contributor to lower agricultural prices is the 10-percent drop in grain prices over the past year. Moreover, vegetable oil prices have fallen by about twice as much as grains. Prices for tropical oils, as well as coffee, rubber, and sugar, are lower this year than in 2014. Low petroleum prices and the strong dollar are partly behind subdued commodity prices. Abundant world supply of grains, oilseeds, and tropical products relative to th eir demand is an important factor in the continued general decline of agri cultural prices starting in 2014.

In the United States, increased production of grains and oilseeds starting in marketing year 2013/14 has led to lower pri ces received by farmers for their crops, livestock, and food commodities in general in 2014/15. Producer prices for farm products are down each month thus far in 2015 and, since March, for processed foods and feeds. With respect to food demand by American consumers, spending for food (consumed at home) is up 2.8 per cent in real terms from April to June 2015 (compared to declines in the preceding quar ters). As personal disposable income has grown 3.2 percent in the past year, spending on food consumed away from home is up 4.9 percent.
The total U.S. import projection of $115 .5 billion in fiscal 2015 is $1.5 billion smaller than the May forecast of $117 billion as all import groups’ projections are lowered, except for livestock products. To tal import value from April to June was lower than expected, expanding only 0.9 percent from the same quarter last year. In 2016, imports of all the commodity groups are forecast to be larger than in 2015, except for livestock products, as domestic demand picks up pace. Total agricultural imports in 2016 are forecast to be $122. 5 billion, up 6 percent from 2015. Import volume in 2016 is projected up by only 1.7 percent as shipments of bulk grains, oilseeds, and oilmeal are expected to continue their declines from 2014.

Smaller volumes of imported beef, pork, cattle, and swine, plus lower pork and swine unit values, in fiscal 2016 from 2015 lead to a $1 billion, or 6 percent, decline in the total import value of livestock pr oducts. These projected changes are in contrast to increased imports of livestock products in 2015 despite larger production of domestic cattle and swine. Higher unit values for imported beef and cattle in 2015 significantly raise their corresponding import values from 2014 levels. Larger13 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA beef imports in 2015 are partly because of continued domestic decline in beef production. Decreased production is due to historically low cattle inventories and the start of domestic herd rebuilding as improved pasture conditions and lower grain prices spur expansion.
Half of the $1.5-billion drop in total impo rts in 2015 is attributed to the lower projected import value for oilseeds as ship ments of soybeans and rapeseed declined significantly from April to June (particul arly soybeans from Brazil and Canada, and rapeseed from Canada). The other half of th e drop in total imports is due to lower import unit values for natural rubber and other tropical products, as well as the lower-than-projected value for coffee. Among horticultural products, imports of fresh fruits and vegetables were adjusted downward due to smaller-than-expected shipments during the most recent quarter . In addition, reduced shipments of planting seeds during the spring months, particularly from Chile, Turkey, and Argentina, lowered their projection for the year.

In fiscal 2016, the import growth projecti ons for horticultural products, tropical products, and oilseed products are significantly higher, compared to grains and livestock products. Imported fresh and processed fruits, nuts, wine, and beer are the top gainers among horticultural products. Cocoa products, coffee, and rubber lead with higher import values for tropical products in 2016 due to higher cocoa bean prices and higher demand for coffee and rubbe r. Together with processed grain products, more shipments of vegetable oils and other oilseed products are anticipated next year as demand for these products continues or resumes its upward trend.14 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Table 5--U.S. agricultural imports: Value and volume by commodity, fiscal years 2014-16

Commodity Fiscal year Fiscal year 2016 2014 2015 2014 May August August

VALUE

Livestock, dairy, & poultry 11.675 14.974 16.038 18.3 19.4 18.3
Livestock and meats 8.774 11.748 12.059 14.1 15.0 14.0
Cattle and calves 1.671 2.216 2.128 2.6 2.6 2.5
Swine 0.296 0.295 0.410 0.4 0.4 0.3
Beef and veal 3.262 5.508 4.730 6.6 7.1 6.3
Pork 1.220 1.283 1.686 1.3 1.6 1.4 Dairy products 2.369 2.661 3.278 3.5 3.6 3.5
Cheese 0.905 0.985 1.230 1.5 1.4 1.4
Grains and feed 8.112 8.135 10.851 11.1 10.9 11.2 Grain products 4.788 5.003 6.508 6.9 6.8 7.2 Oilseeds and products 7.430 6.607 9.905 9.6 8.8 9.4 Vegetable oils 3.973 3.976 5.376 5.3 5.4 5.6 Horticulture products 36.126 38.130 46.970 51.1 50.5 54.5 Fruits, fresh 7.673 8.262 9.442 10.9 10.4 11.3 Fruits, processed 3.559 3.844 4.733 5.0 5.2 5.9 Fruit juices 1.404 1.432 1.840 1.9 1.9 2.1 Nuts, whole and processed 1.439 1.849 2.072 2.7 2.7 3.3 Vegetables, fresh 5.440 5.510 6.655 7.0 6.8 7.0 Vegetables, processed 3.289 3.347 4.338 4.5 4.4 4.6
Wine 4.130 4.074 5.497 5.6 5.5 5.8
Malt beer 2.957 3.219 4.085 4.5 4.5 4.9
Essential oils 2.230 2.493 2.985 3.3 3.5 3.6 Cut flowers & nursery stock 1.368 1.378 1.712 1.8 1.8 1.9 Sugar & tropical products 17.189 17.560 23.225 24.8 24.0 27.2 Sweeteners & products 3.474 3.493 4.731 4.8 4.8 4.9
Confections 1.212 1.190 1.664 1.7 1.7 1.8 Cocoa and products 3.579 3.567 4.691 4.4 4.7 5.3 Coffee and products 4.267 4.793 6.011 7.3 6.9 7.3 Rubber, natural 1.690 1.183 2.138 1.8 1.7 2.2 Other imports 1/ 1.849 1.376 2.232 2.0 1.7 2.0

Total agricultural imports 82.382 86.782 109.221 117.0 115.5 122.5

VOLUME

Wine 2/ 0.891 0.884 1.147 1.2 1.2 1.3
Malt beer 2/ 2.489 2.638 3.424 3.7 3.7 3.8 Fruit juices 2/ 3.361 3.547 4.323 4.4 4.6 4.8
Cattle and calves 3/ 1.818 1.879 2.234 2.3 2.3 2.2
Swine 3/ 3.524 4.122 4.788 5.1 5.5 5.1
Beef and veal 0.630 0.898 0.887 1.1 1.2 1.0
Pork 0.300 0.371 0.413 0.4 0.5 0.4 Fruits, fresh 8.520 8.700 10.828 11.0 11.1 11.3 Fruits, processed 1.259 1.403 1.672 1.8 1.9 2.1 Vegetables, fresh 5.283 5.226 6.406 6.4 6.4 6.6 Vegetables, processed 2.538 2.597 3.318 3.5 3.4 3.5 Vegetable oils 3.083 3.219 4.176 4.2 4.4 4.5 Cocoa and products 1.038 1.000 1.329 1.2 1.3 1.4 Coffee and products 1.176 1.120 1.589 1.6 1.6 1.7 Totals may not add due to rounding. 1/ Largely tobacco and planting seeds. 2/ Billion liters. 3/ Million head. Sources: USDA and U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. Fiscal year 2015 October - June Forecast

--- Million metric tons --- -- $ Billion --

## Regional Imports

15 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Relatively modest U.S. import growth in 2013, 2014, and 2015 (compared to 2010, 2011, and 2012) is largely attributed to lo wer commodity prices, the slow recovery of domestic demand, and abundant domestic supply of grains and oilseeds. As a result, import growth for grains and f eeds, oilseeds and oilseed products, and tropical products are lower or are projected to decline. The regions and countries that supply these products have lower exports to the United States thus far in the fiscal year (e.g., Canada, Malaysia, Argentina, Brazil, China, Ivory Coast, and Indonesia). Collectively, U.S. imports fr om developing countries thus far have fallen compared to gains by developed countries. Imports from Europe have increased, while imports from East Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa have declined.

In volume terms, U.S. agricultural imports to date are lower than they were for the same period in fiscal 2014. As groups, vo lume shipments from both developed and developing countries have fallen, and S outh America has accounted for the most export losses. Brazil, Ivory Coast, Malaysia , and Turkey have suffered double-digit declines on average in export volume to date. Among the countries that have endured double-digit export-unit-value reduc tions with respect to the United States are Argentina, China, and Indonesia. Other countries whose export unit values were lower include India, Ivory Coast, Malays ia, Thailand, Peru, and Vietnam. As regions, Europe/Eurasia and Asia have received 19 and 7.7 percent lower unit values, respectively, for their exports to the United States thus far in fiscal 2015.16 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Table 6--U.S. agricultural imports: Value by region, fiscal years 2014-2016

Region and country Fiscal year Fiscal year 2016 2014 2015 2014 May August August

VALUE

Western Hemisphere 46.396 47.970 60.587 64.5 62.6 66.7
Canada 17.025 16.743 22.820 23.3 22.5 24.0
Mexico 15.125 16.323 18.864 20.5 20.4 21.8
Central America 3.547 3.890 4.761 5.2 5.2 5.5
Costa Rica 1.190 1.149 1.552 1.6 1.5 1.6
Guatemala 1.373 1.493 1.826 2.1 2.0 2.1
Other Central America 0.983 1.248 1.384 1.6 1.8 1.9
Caribbean 0.357 0.459 0.504 0.6 0.7 0.7
South America 10.342 10.555 13.637 14.9 13.9 14.8 Argentina 1.196 1.079 1.566 1.4 1.4 1.5
Brazil 2.720 2.683 3.675 4.1 3.6 3.8
Chile 2.303 2.293 2.743 3.0 2.7 2.8
Colombia 1.760 1.894 2.358 2.7 2.6 2.8
Peru 1.106 1.501 1.557 1.9 2.1 2.2
Other South America 1.258 1.105 1.739 1.8 1.6 1.7 Europe and Eurasia 15.013 15.820 20.135 21.4 21.2 22.6 European Union-28 13.971 14.584 18.744 19.8 19.6 20.9 Other Europe 0.965 1.047 1.277 1.4 1.4 1.5
Asia 13.838 14.084 18.711 18.6 19.1 20.4
East Asia 4.392 4.361 5.760 5.9 5.8 6.1
China 3.328 3.261 4.343 4.4 4.3 4.6
Other East Asia 1.064 1.100 1.417 1.5 1.5 1.6
Southeast Asia 7.144 7.177 9.723 9.2 9.8 10.5
Indonesia 2.342 2.151 3.094 2.8 2.8 3.0 Malaysia 1.140 0.964 1.502 1.2 1.3 1.4
Thailand 1.678 1.702 2.242 2.1 2.3 2.5
Vietnam 1.128 1.339 1.659 2.1 2.0 2.1
Other Southeast Asia 0.855 1.021 1.227 1.1 1.5 1.6
South Asia 2.302 2.545 3.228 3.5 3.6 3.9
India 2.116 2.304 2.972 3.3 3.3 3.6
Oceania 4.152 5.908 5.905 8.9 8.5 9.1
Australia 2.286 3.480 3.344 5.2 5.2 5.5
New Zealand 1.802 2.348 2.461 3.7 3.3 3.5
Africa 2.077 2.101 2.670 2.3 2.7 2.9
Sub-Sahara 1.806 1.710 2.330 1.9 2.3 2.5 Ivory Coast 0.981 0.778 1.137 0.7 0.9 1.0
Other Sub-Sahara 0.825 0.931 1.193 1.2 1.4 1.5
Middle East 0.906 0.900 1.213 1.2 1.3 1.4 Turkey 0.585 0.574 0.784 0.8 0.8 0.9

World total 82.382 86.782 109.221 117.0 115.5 122.5 Totals may not add due to rounding. Sources: USDA, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Commerce. Fiscal year 2015 October - June Forecast

-- $ Billion --

## Reliability Tables

17 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA18 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA19 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA20 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA

## Contact Information

21 Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade /AES-89/August 27, 2015 Economic Research Service, USDA Forecast Coordinators (area code 202) Exports: Levin Flake/FAS, 720-1226, Levin.Flake@fas.usda.gov Imports: Andy Jerardo/ERS, 694-5266, ajerardo@ers.usda.gov

Commodity Specialist Contacts (area code 202) Grains and Feeds: Coarse Grains: Edward W. Allen/ERS, 694-5288 Richard O’Meara/FAS, 720-4933 Wheat: Olga Liefert/ERS, 694-5166 Teresa McKeivier/FAS, 690-1151 Rice: Nathan Childs/ERS, 694-5292 Yoonhee Macke /FAS, 690-4199 Oilseeds: Mark Ash/ERS, 694-5289 Bill George/FAS, 720-6234 Cotton: James Johnson/FAS, 690-1546 Leslie Meyer/ERS, 694-5307 Livestock, Poultry & Dairy Products: Beef & Cattle: Lindsay Kuberka /FAS, 644-4650 Pork & Hogs: Claire Mezoughem /FAS, 720-7715 Poultry: Dave Harvey/ERS, 694-5177 Joanna Hitchner/FAS, 720-0746 Dairy Products: Paul Kiendl/FAS, 720-8870 Horticultural & Tropical Products: Deciduous Fresh Fruit: Elaine Protzman/FAS, 720-5588 Fresh Citrus: Reed Blauer/FAS, 720-0898 Vegetables & Preparations: Tony Halstead/FAS, 690-4620 Tree Nuts: Tony Halstead/FAS,690-4620 Sugar and Tropical Products: Reed Blauer/FAS, 720-0898 Sugar: Ron Lord/FAS, 720-6939

Macroeconomics Contact (area code 202) Kari Heerman/ERS, 694-5250, keheerman@ers.usda.gov Publication Coordinator (area code 202) Bryce Cooke/ERS, 694-5257, bryce.cooke@ers.usda.gov

Related Websites Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda /viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1196 Foreign Agricultural Service homepage: http://www.fas.usda.gov/ Economic Research Service homepage: http://www.ers.usda.gov/ U.S.Trade Data: http://www.fas.usda.gov/gats FAQ & Summary Data: http://www.ers.usda.gov/data-p roducts/foreign-agriculturaltrade-of-the-united- states-(fatus).aspx Articles on U.S. Trade: http://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/international-marketstrade/us-agricultural-trade.aspx
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