Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impact of rising energy prices on agricultural products, highlighting the interconnectedness of energy markets and agricultural commodities, and outlines three main logical pathways through which these effects manifest. Group 1: Energy Price Impact on Agricultural Products - Historical patterns show that surges in energy prices lead to increased demand for alternative fuels, which in turn boosts industrial consumption of agricultural products, resulting in rising grain prices [2] - The current energy crisis is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with varying degrees of impact across different agricultural commodities [2] Group 2: Oilseeds and Fats - Oilseeds, particularly palm oil, are closely linked to crude oil prices, with approximately 28% of global oilseed consumption used for biodiesel production. Rising crude oil prices make biodiesel production more economically viable, increasing demand for oilseeds [3] - As of March 12, 2026, domestic palm oil futures rose by 1.13% to 9818 CNY/ton, driven by crude oil price increases and potential policy changes in Indonesia that could raise palm oil consumption by approximately 3 million tons [3] - The price spread between palm oil and diesel is narrowing, indicating a shift in the valuation of oilseeds due to high oil prices [3] Group 3: Oilseed Meal - The price increase in soybean meal and rapeseed meal is driven by two factors: overall commodity price increases and rising shipping costs due to delays in soybean imports from Brazil and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz [5] - As of March 12, 2026, domestic soybean meal prices rose, with Tianjin at 3380 CNY/ton, influenced by reduced import volumes and strong pricing intentions from oil mills [5] - The correlation between rising crude oil prices and soybean prices is evident, as higher oil prices enhance the profitability of soybean oil production, thereby increasing soybean prices [5] Group 4: Cotton - Cotton prices are supported by two main factors: the competitiveness of cotton against synthetic fibers due to rising raw material costs and increased planting costs driven by higher fertilizer prices [6] - The price of urea, a key fertilizer, has risen significantly, impacting cotton production costs and potentially leading to stronger cotton prices in the market [6] Group 5: Sugar - The relationship between sugar and ethanol production is highlighted, with rising crude oil prices making ethanol production more attractive, thereby reducing sugar supply and increasing prices [8] - The expectation of reduced sugar production in Brazil due to the shift towards ethanol is becoming more pronounced, with domestic sugar prices also showing signs of support despite high industrial inventories [9] Group 6: Corn - Corn prices are influenced by both international market trends and domestic supply-demand dynamics, with rising import costs due to increased shipping expenses [10] - As of March 12, 2026, domestic corn prices ranged from 2360 to 2510 CNY/ton, with market pressures from increased rice supply affecting corn pricing [10] Group 7: Livestock and Eggs - The livestock sector, particularly for pigs and eggs, faces pressure from rising feed costs, which constitute a significant portion of total production costs [11] - As of March 12, 2026, the average price of pigs was 10.16 CNY/kg, with rising feed prices squeezing profit margins for producers [11] Group 8: Fertilizers - Fertilizer prices, particularly urea, are rising due to supply chain disruptions, which will ultimately affect the planting costs of various agricultural products [13] - The increase in fertilizer prices is expected to have a slow but significant impact on the overall cost structure of agricultural production [13] Group 9: Summary of Agricultural Product Logic - The article summarizes the impact of geopolitical tensions on agricultural products through three main lines: energy substitution logic, cost-push logic, and substitution product logic [14] - Rising crude oil prices enhance the attractiveness of biofuels, increase import costs for key agricultural inputs, and improve the competitiveness of domestic products against imports [14]