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 billion as a result of lower expected soybean 

and soybean meal prices and reduced export volumes. Grain and feed exports are 

forecast to be up $1.1 billion from fiscal 2015, 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 dairy 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 billion 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 expected 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 values 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 for exports is down $1.0 billion from last 

quarter’s forecast. Imports are 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

Economic Outlook

Export Products

Regional Exports

Import Products

Regional Imports 

Contact Information

Tables 

Macro Trends

Commodity Exports

Regional Exports

Commodity Imports

Regional Imports

Reliability Tables

Web Sites 

U.S. Trade Data 

FAQ & Summary 

Data

Articles on U.S. 

Trade

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

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 Foreign 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 strong 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 reflected in a strong growth forecast of 3.0 

percent in 2016. However, weak foreign 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 expected 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 slowdown 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 vitality, 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 percent 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 makes 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 against most currencies in the past year, 

China has kept its dollar exchange rate relatively 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 the dollar. While further depreciation is 

likely, Chinese officials are expected to intervene to prevent 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 important 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 markets. Its exchange rate policy vis-à-vis the 

dollar resulted in a nearly 20-percent increase in China’s real effective exchange 

rate since 2013, as other Asian currencies have weakened. This has significantly 

deteriorated China’s export competitiveness relative 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 that 
3 

Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade/AES-89/August 27, 2015 

Economic Research Service, USDA 

changes in the structure of supply chains, less accessible trade finance, and 

increased trade protection are also contributing 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 OPEC’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 and 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 adjustments, and Mexico’s growth rate forecast 

has also been adjusted downward. Recessions in Argentina, Brazil, and Venezuela 

will also sharply slow growth in South America in 2015. These challenges are 

expected to persist into 2016. In particular, 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

 NAFTA 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

 Turkey 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 forecast at $32.4 billion, 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 grains (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. Corn 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 significantly 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 value 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 are 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 and 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 supply 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 virtually 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 declining 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 products, 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 prices for broiler meat offset a small 

rise in volumes. 

The fiscal 2016 export forecast for horticultural 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 vegetables are forecast at $7.8 billion, up 

$300 million. Unit values for several processed 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 horticultural 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 cocoa

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

October - June Fiscal 2015

--- Million 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 limit 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 forecast 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 expected to be down due to near-record 

domestic production and larger ending stocks. Despite these lower prices, 

U.S. export volumes are expected smaller as a strong U.S. dollar and robust 

exportable supplies in South America 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 fiscal 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 wheat 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 billion 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 expanded 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 reduced 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 lower values for soybeans and soybean meal 

(the EU is the second-largest U.S. soybean 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 exports 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 shipments 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 exports 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 lowered 
10 

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 billion. Despite a significantly 

stronger dollar, U.S. horticultural exports (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 billion as a result of reduced sales of 

cotton, this decline is offset by stronger 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 both 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 economy 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 increases 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 accelerate (based on historical trends). 

World food commodity prices have declined 10 percent thus far from year-end 2014 

levels, according to the International Monetary 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 their demand is an important factor in the 

continued general decline of agricultural prices starting in 2014. 

In the United States, increased production of grains and oilseeds starting in 

marketing year 2013/14 has led to lower prices 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 percent in real terms from April to June 2015 

(compared to declines in the preceding quarters). 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. Total 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 products. 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. Larger 
13 

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 imports in 2015 is attributed to the lower 

projected import value for oilseeds as shipments of soybeans and rapeseed declined 

significantly from April to June (particularly soybeans from Brazil and Canada, and 

rapeseed from Canada). The other half of the 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 projections 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 rubber. 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.

 October - June Fiscal year 2015

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 lower commodity prices, the slow recovery 

of domestic demand, and abundant domestic supply of grains and oilseeds. As a 

result, import growth for grains and feeds, 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 from 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, volume shipments from both developed and 

developing countries have fallen, and South 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 reductions with respect to the United States 

are Argentina, China, and Indonesia. Other countries whose export unit values were 

lower include India, Ivory Coast, Malaysia, 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.

October - June Fiscal year 2015

Forecast

-- $ Billion --
 Reliability Tables 

17 

Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade/AES-89/August 27, 2015 

Economic Research Service, USDA 
18 

Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade/AES-89/August 27, 2015 

Economic Research Service, USDA 
19 

Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade/AES-89/August 27, 2015 

Economic Research Service, USDA 
20 

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-products/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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