🌱 US Soybean Planting Progress Hits 67%, Emergence Rate Reaches 32%

May 21, 2026

GAPS-Global

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Guide

Highlights at a glance

The latest USDA Crop Progress report shows US soybean planting is advancing rapidly, reaching 67% completion across 18 key states by May 17—up from 49% the previous week. This marks the fastest pace on record for this period, surpassing both last year's 63% and the five-year average of 53%. Emergence stands at 32%, matching last year’s rate and exceeding the historical average of 23%. Major Midwest states like Iowa (80%), Illinois (74%), and Indiana (67%) are well ahead of schedule. The 2026 planted area is projected at 84.7 million acres, a 4% annual increase, though slightly below market expectations.

According to the Crop Progress report released by the USDA on Monday, US soybean planting continues to advance. The pace is currently ahead of last year and the historical average, marking the fastest progress for this time of year on record.

📊 Key Planting Data (as of May 17)

Overall Progress: Across 18 major soybean-producing states (accounting for 96% of the national planted area), soybean planting reached 67%, up from 49% a week earlier. This figure is higher than last year's 63% and significantly exceeds the five-year average of 53%.
Midwest Highlights:
- Illinois: 74% planted (57% last week; 63% five-year average)
- Indiana: 67% planted (51% last week; 50% five-year average)
- Iowa: 80% planted (60% last week; 68% five-year average)
Emergence Rate: The soybean emergence rate stands at 32%, up from 20% the previous week. This matches last year's pace of 32% and is well above the five-year average of 23%.

📈 Planting Intentions

Data from the USDA's planting intentions report released in late March indicates that US soybean planted area for 2026 is projected at 84.7 million acres. This represents a 4% year-over-year increase, though it falls slightly short of the market's prior expectation of 85.55 million acres.

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🌱 US Soybean Planting Progress Hits 67%, Emergence Rate Reaches 32%