IL Corn's Strategic Investment in U.S. Grains Council Boosts Export Opportunities

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is actively expanding exports of U.S. corn, barley, sorghum, and their by-products, including grain-based ethanol and dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), across over 75 countries worldwide. Their work in addressing market access and policy issues is crucial in growing and maintaining these export opportunities. IL Corn is proud to invest in the Council through checkoff funds, strategically positioning Illinois farmers to achieve significant wins by tapping into these expanding markets.

A substantial portion of USGC's budget focuses on promoting grain-based ethanol exports, with expectations of reaching a record 1.7 billion gallons this marketing year. Canada is poised to become the first billion-gallon market for U.S. ethanol, with other key markets including Japan, the EU, the UK, and India.

“This partnership directly benefits Illinois, as the state’s agricultural economy thrives on trade,” said Jeff Scates, IL Corn Marketing Board Chair and Illinois farmer from Shawneetown. “By investing in the U.S. Grains Council, Illinois farmers not only secure and expand their market opportunities but also contribute to the broader growth of U.S. agricultural exports, particularly in emerging sectors like aquaculture and pet food industries.”