IL Corn joined the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) and the Illinois Economic Development Association (IEDC) to attend the U.S. Bioethanol Supply Conference in Japan, reinforcing the state’s position as a global leader in agriculture and ethanol exports while highlighting new opportunities for economic investment.
In 2024, Illinois exported $2.5 billion in goods to Japan, making it the state’s 9th largest export market. Imports from Japan totaled $7 billion, ranking it as Illinois’ 6th largest source of imported goods. Overall, bilateral trade between Illinois and Japan reached nearly $10 billion last year. Japan is also Illinois’ top foreign direct investment (FDI) partner, with more than 400 Japanese companies operating across the state and employing over 56,000 Illinoisians.
During the conference, members of “Team Illinois” joined counterparts from nine Midwestern states and more than 100 Japanese corporations to strengthen trade and investment ties. The delegation underscored Illinois’ role as a premier origin for corn and ethanol exports and as a prime destination for foreign investment. The recently announced $550 billion U.S.–Japan investment agreement further highlights opportunities for Illinois to attract new projects that create jobs and drive demand for corn and ethanol.
“This is about more than trade statistics, it’s about securing the future for Illinois farmers,” said Collin Watters, IL Corn Director of Exports and Logistics. “Japan represents a growing market for ethanol, and every step we take to expand international demand translates into stronger markets, better prices, and long-term value back at the farm.”
Why this matters for Illinois farmers:
- Japan represents a growing market for U.S. ethanol.
- Expanding international demand means stronger markets and better prices for Illinois corn.
- Partnerships like this ensure U.S. ethanol and Illinois corn remain competitive and sustainable on the global stage.
IL Corn’s ongoing investment in global trade partnerships continues to open doors for Illinois farmers, delivering long-term value from Springfield to Tokyo and beyond.
