The US is one of the world's largest soybean producers and exporters, so import volumes are generally limited to specialty varieties or regional supply gaps. Most global soybean trade flows from the US and Brazil to major importing regions in Asia and Europe rather than into the US.

Soybean imports require a phytosanitary certificate issued by the exporting country's plant protection authority. USDA APHIS may impose additional conditions — such as treatment or restricted entry — depending on the origin country's pest and disease status. Importers should consult APHIS import regulations before shipment.