Importance of Trade Series: Corn

Trade is one of IL Corn’s top policy priorities because of its critical role in driving corn demand and supporting the agricultural economy. This article kicks off a trade series to explore the impact that international markets have on corn.

U.S. corn exports reached 58.1 million metric tons during the 2023/2024 market year (MY), shipping to 58 countries.

Top U.S. Corn Markets

1. Mexico

· 23.5 million metric tons

· $5.5 billion

2. Japan

· 11.3 million metric tons

· $2.5 billion

3. Colombia

· 6.3 million metric tons

· $1.4 billion

The MY 2024/2025 is projected to be 59.06 million metric tons, which is 1.4% higher than MY 2023/2024.

Trade is a large driver for demand that grows the ag economy. Keeping a consistent and growing demand for exports is essential for Illinois corn farmers to maintain strong and competitive corn prices.

IL Corn is committed to advocating for policy that opens markets, reduces restrictions, and promotes U.S. corn.

< Older Post

Meganheadshot

Wonder Woman in the Corn Belt: A Conversation with IL Corn's Megan Dwyer

By Tara Desmond • July 1, 2026

Seven years ago, Megan Dwyer joined the IL Corn team and if you know Megan, you know she doesn't do anything halfway.

White

ICGA Praises USDA Rule, Continues Advocating for Book & Claim Approach

By Lindsay Croke • June 26, 2026

The IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and our farmer leaders feel overwhelmingly positive after their review of the USDA Regenerative Feedstock Rule today

Monarch butterfly perched on a green plant against a blurred grassy background

Illinois Schools: Bring Pollinator Education to Your Campus

By Pearl McDade • June 25, 2026

Support pollinators in Illinois schools with free milkweed seeds, hands-on STEM learning, and real-world agriculture and conservation lessons.

Matt Raben

Illinois Corn Farmer Speaks Out on the Importance of USMCA for Ag

By Lyndi Allen • June 25, 2026

Illinois Corn Farmer, Matt Raben, Speaks Out on the Importance of U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) for Agriculture by sharing U.S. corn export numbers to Canada and Mexico

Stacked soap bars with foam over corn cobs on a light background

From Fields to Foam: How Corn Shows Up in Your Soap

By Pearl McDade • June 25, 2026

Illinois corn powers renewable soap ingredients, from foaming cleansers to starches, oils, and ethanol.

Flags of Canada, the United States, and Mexico waving against a blue sky

USMCA Works for America

By Lyndi Allen • June 24, 2026

The U.S. – Mexico – Canada Agreement (USMCA) has been delivering real results for American families, farmers, and businesses since 2020.