Due to expectations of rainfall in parts of the central U.S. that may delay planting, CBOT soybean futures closed higher on Friday. A report released on Thursday by the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) showed that approximately 30% of U.S. soybean planting areas were experiencing drought as of the week ending April 21, compared with 29% the previous week. In Brazil, soybean harvesting is nearing completion, and record-breaking production is rapidly being shipped to the global market. China is about to enter the peak period of Brazilian soybean arrivals. Overall, U.S. soybeans are seeking a balance between strong crush demand and supply pressure from South America, presenting a range-bound pattern with upside pressure and downside support. Market focus remains on weather changes during the planting season.