By Andi Anderson
Illinois achieved remarkable success in agriculture by becoming the leading soybean‑producing state in the United States in 2025. This accomplishment came during a year marked by historic drought conditions and sharply rising input costs.
Even with these challenges, soybean farmers in the state managed to produce 638 million bushels of soybeans. A bushel weighs 60 pounds, and this large‑scale production reflects years of steady growth in Illinois’ farming sector.
For more than ten years, soybean production in Illinois has steadily increased due to the hard work of farmers and the region’s favorable natural conditions.
District 1 director of the Illinois Soybean Association, Ryan Frieders, explained that Midwest farmers benefit from strong soils and generally favorable weather patterns that support soybean cultivation. He also highlighted the pride that farmers feel in their work, stating, “Farmers have a sense of pride in the things that they grow. When they put in a lot of work and sweat and tears and then have a good product in the end, it's something to be proud of.” Frieders, who is also a soybean farmer himself, shared this perspective based on firsthand experience.
In addition to environmental difficulties, international trade tensions added uncertainty for farmers in 2025. Despite this, Frieders expressed optimism that the United States would continue working to establish new trade agreements with other countries.
He also emphasized the importance of using resources wisely, saying that rising costs make it essential for farmers to manage inputs efficiently while still protecting their crop yields.
Frieders also highlighted the broader economic importance of soybeans. He stated, “Soybeans in general are very important, not just to Illinois, but also to the U.S. economy. Soybeans are the largest agricultural export in the nation.” This shows how Illinois farmers contribute not only to their state’s success but also to the national agricultural market.
Illinois had also achieved a record‑breaking year in 2024, producing 688 million bushels of soybeans. That earlier success helped set the stage for another strong performance in 2025 despite the harsher conditions.
Together, these accomplishments show the strength, adaptability, and continued dedication of Illinois farmers in supporting American agriculture.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Soybeans