Agriculture News
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USDA’s chief economist says 2026 brings moderating costs, slightly higher crop prices and shifting acreage, but he warns biofuels policy and global competition remain key wild cards for farm income.
Improvements in the Southeast fail to offset dryness elsewhere
Monthly Survey Finds Downturn in Economic Outlook
Acreage figures not far off analyst expectations as Ag Outlook Forum gets under way
According to the National Cotton Council’s (NCC) Planting Intentions Survey, U.S. cotton producers intend to plant 9.0 million cotton acres this spring, a 3.2% decline from 2025, with a nearly 21% drop in the Mid-South.
Confidence in USDA reports is wavering after recent acreage misses, leaving many producers and retailers skeptical. While experts call it the “best data available,” transparency is needed to restore industry trust.
Rise Reverses Modest Downturn in 2024
Banker survey finds declining financial conditions but steady real estate values
Biofuels expansion completely at mercy of government policy