- Corn prices were mixed in Q2’26, with larger global supply capping upside while regional demand pockets kept China, India, France, and U.S. markets supported.
- Feedstock pressure was mostly bearish, as higher crop estimates, loose Chinese supply, and large U.S. stocks outweighed acreage cuts and nearby weather concerns.
- Downstream demand stayed selective, with feed, ethanol, and export demand supporting prices, though weak livestock margins and cautious European feed buying limited gains.
Asia
In China, Corn prices were ~RMB 2.52/kg in April and ~RMB 2.49/kg in the next month in Q2'26, witnessing a marginal decrease. The decline was driven by loose domestic supply, policy grain releases, new wheat arrivals, and weaker feed demand. Higher availability of substitute grains also reduced corn buying urgency. In contrast, during Q2'26, Corn prices rose in India from ~INR 17.76/kg in April to ~INR 18.76/kg in May, showing a ~5.7% increase. Indian prices were supported by stronger feed and ethanol demand, along with firm export sentiment.
Europe
In France, Corn prices were ~EUR 0.21/kg in April and ~EUR 0.22/kg in the following month, displaying a ~2.0% increase. European corn found support from its continued role in feed rations, as compound feed producers still preferred corn over some other grains. However, the upside remained limited because overall feed grain demand was not strong. EU feed grain use was expected to decline marginally to 159.4 MMT in MY 2026/27, reflecting softer cattle and swine feed needs. Poultry demand helped, but it was not enough to create a broad demand-led rally.
North America
In the United States, Corn prices were ~USD 169.69/MT in April and ~USD 171.56/MT in the subsequent month, showing a ~1.1% increase. Prices gained slightly as lower planted area and weather risk offered support, but large stocks capped the rise. June 1 corn stocks reached 5.29 billion bushels, up 14% year-on-year, showing comfortable availability. Export demand remained firm, with September-April exports up 24% year-on-year, while ethanol demand continued to absorb large volumes.