Foreign markets are vital consumers for the U.S. agriculture industry. According to National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), exports are responsible for 33% of U.S. corn farmers’ income. The U.S. Grains Council estimates that in marketing year 2023/2024, exports of corn and corn products (including ethanol, distiller grains, red meat and poultry) totaled over five billion bushels - about one-third of the nation’s corn production that year.
Top U.S. Corn and Ethanol Export Destinations in Marketing Year (MY) 2024-2025
Corn export sales have picked up this marketing year and are currently running about 30% ahead of the five-year average. Importers from Mexico, our top foreign market, have committed to purchase about 637 million bushels this marketing year – about 44% of total commitments from known purchasers.
The leading destinations for U.S. corn exports from September- November 2024 (the latest available data) include:
- Mexico- 324 million bushels
- Japan- 149 million bushels
- Colombia- 117 million bushels
Top Illinois Corn Export Destinations
Illinois is one of the top suppliers for U.S. corn exports. Its central location with a large network of transportation makes Illinois efficient and a competitive market for exports. Currently, about 50% of the corn produced in Illinois corn leaves the state, most of which is destined for markets overseas.
Current Tariffs on U.S. Corn Exports
U.S. corn currently enjoys duty-free access to many foreign markets, but potential escalation of tariffs on imports to the U.S. will invite retaliation by other countries and likely trigger consultations under existing free-trade agreements in the case of Canada, Mexico, and Colombia.
U.S. Ethanol Exports
Ethanol is a major agricultural export, the top destinations for U.S. ethanol exports by value in 2023 include:
- Canada- $1.74 Billion
- United Kingdom- $409.92 Million
- European Union- $333.35 Million
- India- $245.91 Million
- South Korea- $241.16 Million
Ethanol in Illinois
Illinois is one of the top U.S. ethanol producers, making ethanol exports economically beneficial for Illinois corn farmers. As global demand increases, Illinois will continue to be an essential supplier. Currently, ~25% of Illinois’ corn goes to ethanol production, of that, a good percentage is exported.
Summary
With strong export markets and tariff-free access to top destinations, U.S. corn and ethanol exports are vital for agricultural trade. However, challenges, such as GMO restrictions and trade policy changes affect the economic strength of U.S. agriculture. Moving forward, strong international relationships and expanding market opportunities are essential for long-term sustainability of U.S. corn and ethanol exports.
