Brazilian Corn Expansion Continues Adding Competition for U.S. Growers

Dr. Joana Colussi says differences in input costs, trade conditions, and second-crop risks continue shaping profitability in both countries.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (RFD News) — Brazil’s growing second-crop corn production is continuing to increase competition for U.S. farmers in global grain markets.

Dr. Joana Colussi with Purdue University’s Department of Agricultural Economics joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to break down how production costs and returns compare between farms in the United States and Brazil.

In her conversation with RFD News, Colussi discussed findings from research comparing a typical Iowa corn farm with one located in Mato Grosso, Brazil.

The discussion focused on differences in corn input use and how production costs and gross revenues compared between the two operations.

Colussi also touched on how trade policies and broader market conditions continue influencing profitability for producers in both countries.

The conversation also focused on the agronomic risks associated with second-crop corn production in Mato Grosso and how these factors can influence profitability.

Related Stories
Corn and wheat exports remain a demand bright spot, while soybeans are transitioning into a more typical late-winter shipping slowdown.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
Freight volatility and route selection remain critical to soybean export margins and competitiveness.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

AFBF Women’s Leadership Committee Chair Isabella Chism joined us to discuss Ag Day planning, community involvement, and supporting the future of agriculture.
EPA Administrator Scott Mason shares updates on farm equipment regulations, regional accomplishments, and federal efforts supporting agriculture in honor of National Ag Day.
Sen. Roger Marshall joins us in honor of National Ag Day to share legislative updates, highlight key policy victories, and initiatives supporting farmers and rural communities he is championing in Washington.
With deep agricultural ties, Dr. Carrie Castille, a South Louisiana native, aims to support ULM student success and connect rural communities.
Carol Anderson joined us to highlight the importance of rural mental health, introduce a new resilience program, and share resources available to the ag community.
During opening remarks, Rollins emphasized the strength and perseverance of the agricultural community, while teasing that a new policy announcement is expected later this week.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.