National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) hosted a team of 10 executives from India’s automotive, biofuels and automotive sectors. The team, brought here through a U.S. Grains Council Trade Mission (USGC) and in partnership with IL Corn, learned about many areas of interest in addition to ethanol production such as co-products like Distillers Dried Grains (DDGs) and biorenewable co-product options through discussions with NCERC Director of Research Dr. Yan Zhang. Following the discussion, the group toured the facility’s plant with Dr. Zhang and Project Management Engineer Steve Ward to see processes first hand, offering many insightful, thoughtful questions.

“The Indian ethanol delegation’s visit to NCERC was highly insightful. As the Indian ethanol industry progresses toward its E20 goal for 2025-26, research facilities like NCERC have laid valuable groundwork to support India’s climate goals and can also support India’s future as it becomes one of the world leaders in fuel ethanol blends,” said USGC Director for South Asia Reece H. Cannady.

Prior to the formal presentation, the team had a chance to tour the Iowa Corn Biofuels Trailer for a demonstration on U.S. consumer outreach efforts on ethanol. This unique educational tool generated lively conversation, kicking off the day with an engaging experience.

USGC Regional Director Reece Cannady and Consultant Amit Sachdev, along with Watters, accompanied the group. In addition to visiting NCERC, the group also had the chance to meet with a diverse array of the leaders of numerous industries, academia, non-profits and grassroots organizations. To wrap up the St. Louis portion of the tour, the team enjoyed a visit to see corn farming in action during a morning on the farm of National Corn Growers Association First Vice President Ken Hartmann near Waterloo, Illinois.