U.S. wheat exports posted their strongest performance in five years during the 2025-2026 marketing year, providing a bright spot for wheat growers facing low commodity prices. The marketing year ended May 31 with export inspections totaling 23.7 million metric tons, or 871 million bushels. That was nearly 15 percent higher than the previous year and marked the largest export volume since the 2020-2021 marketing year. Over 55 countries purchased U.S. wheat during the year, helping drive sales beyond initial USDA projections. Demand came from a combination of long-standing customers and emerging markets, highlighting the competitiveness of U.S. wheat despite strong global supplies. “U.S. wheat continued to move steadily into global markets despite a year marked by geopolitical uncertainty, volatile freight costs, and intense competition from other exporting origins,” said Brian Liedl, vice president of overseas operations for U.S. Wheat Associates. USDA raised its export outlook several times during the year as commercial sales consistently exceeded expectations.