CBOT soybeans down as China-Taiwan tensions rise

CHICAGO, Dec 29 (Reuters) - Chicago Board of Trade soybean futures fell on a thinly traded Monday ahead of the New Year holiday as traders assessed escalating tensions between China and Taiwan that could threaten U.S.-China trade.

• On Monday, China launched extensive war games around Taiwan to show Beijing's ability to cut off the island from outside support in a conflict, testing Taipei's resolve to defend itself and its arsenal of U.S.-made weapons.

• Analysts said that flash point poses a threat to the U.S.-China trade truce, with China being the world's largest soybean importer. GRA/

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed private sales of 100,000 metric tons of U.S. soybeans to Egypt for delivery in the 2025-26 marketing year that began on September 1.

• CBOT March soybeans SH26 settled 9 cents lower at $10.63-1/2 a bushel.

• CBOT March SMH26 soymeal futures settled $4.10 cents lower at $303.30 per short ton.

• Most-active March soyoil BOH26 ended 0.07 cent higher at 49.29 cents per pound.