Soybean futures traded above $13.1 per bushel and remained near their highest levels in almost three years as markets priced in stronger Chinese demand and the prospect of further purchases ahead of high-level US‑China talks, sources indicated on 18 September 2026.

The move left the oilseed complex relatively firm, with traders citing renewed appetite from Chinese buyers for US supplies as the principal support. Futures above $13.1 per bushel place the contract close to a multi-year peak, according to the report.

Sources noted that China has already passed the halfway mark of its commitment to purchase 25 million metric tonnes of US soybeans. That progress has been interpreted by market participants as tangible evidence that some of the pledged volumes are being fulfilled.

Price drivers

Market commentators cited in the report pointed to demand flows from China as the dominant driver of recent gains. Expectations that further purchases might be announced or executed in the run-up to the planned Trump‑Xi discussions helped underpin prices.

Market focus ahead of talks

Traders are watching the high-level bilateral talks for indications of how trade flows might evolve, with any confirmation of additional purchases likely to reinforce the firm tone. The report linked the prospect of further Chinese buying to the near-term resilience of futures.

Key facts from the report

  • Futures trading above $13.1 per bushel.
  • Prices near their highest in almost three years.
  • China has passed the halfway mark of a 25 million metric tonne US soybean purchase commitment.
  • Item published by reports on 18 September 2026.

The unfolding picture, as set out in the source, suggests that transactional demand is once again the principal engine of price moves rather than supply-side shocks. Market participants will look for further confirmations of Chinese buying to sustain the current levels, the report said.

For now, the combination of achieved purchase commitments and the diplomatic calendar has left soybean futures in a firm posture, with traders attentive to any statements or trade notices that could convert expectation into additional physical flows.