U.S. soybean farmer leaders have taken a significant step to strengthen the nation’s soybean export infrastructure by contributing $275,000 toward the expansion of The Andersons’ facility at the Port of Houston. The funding will support research, analysis, pre-engineering, and design work for the project, which is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026. Once operational, the terminal will enhance the export of soybean meal, opening new avenues for U.S. soy products in international markets.
The investment addresses several key priorities for the soybean industry. With increasing production of soybean oil for renewable fuels, the resulting growth in soybean meal output requires expanded export capacity to meet global demand. The Houston terminal, with a storage capacity of 6.3 million bushels, is expected to handle more than two million metric tons of grain annually, including up to 22,000 metric tons of soybean meal for export.
Farmers are also seeking to strengthen the resilience of the supply chain. The Mississippi River has historically been a major export route, but low water levels have previously disrupted shipments. By routing soybean meal through the Houston terminal via BNSF Railway or Union Pacific Railroad, the industry can reduce reliance on inland waterways and diversify shipping options.
Expanding international market access is another critical goal. With soybean exports to China facing challenges, U.S. producers are looking to other regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, and parts of Asia. The Houston terminal is expected to source soybean meal primarily from Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska, although other states may contribute as the nation’s soybean processing footprint grows.
The funding effort was a joint initiative involving the United Soybean Board, Soy Transportation Coalition, Iowa Soybean Association, Kansas Soybean Commission, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, and Nebraska Soybean Board. A ceremonial check presentation at Port Houston highlighted the collaboration between soybean farmers and The Andersons, which will cover the actual construction costs once the design phase is complete.
Houston business manager Matt Dvorak emphasized the importance of connecting U.S. soybean meal to international customers. He noted that as domestic crushing continues to increase, the terminal expansion will create new opportunities to export soybean meal efficiently while supporting the broader soybean farmer community.
This strategic investment reflects the industry’s commitment to enhancing export infrastructure, diversifying supply chains, and expanding global market access for U.S. soy products, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness for American soybean farmers.
