U.S. soybean production increased rapidly during the 1960's and 1970's and is second in production value only to corn. While the growth arose largely from export demand, the United States faces increasing competition in world markets for soybeans. Soybean meal also competes with other protein meals for livestock feed, and soybean oil competes with substitutable fats and oils. Lower prices and greater incentives to participate in Federal commodity programs for other crops have reduced soybean acreage and production during the 1980's. Soybean production areas have shifted somewhat during the 1980's as well. Although soybeans are relatively free from direct Government programs, production levels are affected by agricultural programs for other commodities. Soybeans are supported by a price support loan which, in most years, has been below prices received by farmers. Issues for legislation in 1990 will probably center on trade issues, the support level, crop substitution on program crop acreage bases, and a marketing loan for soybeans.