Regional Updates MIDDLE EAST/MEDITERRANEAN COMMENTS Grain importers in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region are concerned that Russia’s actions in the Kerch Strait, which connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, could affect shipments from Ukraine. The delay in allowing vessels bound or loaded there through the Kerch is adding to transportation/freight/loading costs and could cause grain shortages for some MENA buyers. The Crimean/Russian authorities in charge of the Kersh-Yenikale Canal say that the delays are related to weather in the form of very high winds. It has been reported in the trade that some international grain companies are rerouting vessel loading from Ukrainian/Azov Sea ports. The latest FAO report on Egypt...
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What You Need to Know Today: After a period of limited activity, USDA reported a sizeable 613 KMT in soybean export sales, including 330 KMT to China and 283 KMT to unknown destinations, potentially also China. The purchases represent a meaningful pickup in demand and bring China closer to ful...
Key Takeaways: Consumer spending is a key driver of the U.S. economy, and the latest retail sales data indicate that spending remains robust despite inflation. In September, total retail and food service sales rose more than 6 percent year-over-year, with food service spending up 7 percent and...
The Trump import plan for 300,000 MT of beef supplies used for ground beef, i.e., lean trim, from September through November has, according to Secretary Brooke Rollins, brought some relief to beef prices. The Executive Order states that the Secretary of Agriculture will analyze and review the m...