NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. ethanol markets opened 2026 with mixed signals, as domestic production and blending slowed while export demand remained a clear bright spot. Weekly data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association, show ethanol production fell 2.0 percent to 1.10 million barrels per day in early January, slightly below last year but still well above the three-year average.
Domestic demand softened alongside lower gasoline consumption. Ethanol blending by refiners dropped sharply, hitting the lowest level since early 2023, while implied gasoline demand declined nearly five percent week over week. Ethanol stocks increased modestly, though inventories remain below both last year and the three-year average, suggesting supply is not burdensome.
In contrast, exports provided strong support. October ethanol exports surged 25 percent to a record 185 million gallons, led by Canada and by solid gains across Europe and Asia. Year-to-date ethanol exports are running 13 percent ahead of last year. DDGS exports were mixed, with steady demand from Mexico offset by weaker shipments to parts of Asia.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Export strength continues to underpin ethanol and corn demand, even as domestic fuel use shows seasonal softness.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
China’s reliance on imported soybeans remains entrenched, shaping global demand and trade leverage.
February 12, 2026 10:46 AM
·
Cuba remains a steady, nearby buyer of U.S. poultry, pork, dairy, and staples, but legal and compliance risks could still affect shipping and payment channels.
February 12, 2026 10:00 AM
·
Agriculture remains a key drag on regional growth amid weak prices and policy uncertainty.
February 12, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Tight cattle supplies favor poultry and pork while keeping beef margins under pressure.
February 12, 2026 06:00 AM
·
While access to China remains uncertain, U.S. beef exporters are finding resilience and opportunity in other global markets, which could help maintain industry value and expand export opportunities.
February 11, 2026 02:41 PM
·
Mike Spier, president and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates, discusses the new U.S.-Bangladesh trade agreement and its potential benefits for U.S. wheat growers.
February 11, 2026 12:37 PM
·
Ag industry leaders and lawmakers are urging continued support for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), citing strong export growth, supply chain integration, and economic benefits for U.S. farmers ahead of the pact’s July review.
February 11, 2026 12:17 PM
·
Strong corn exports offer support, while soybeans and wheat remain weighed down by ample global supplies, according to the USDA’s latest WASDE report for February.
February 10, 2026 04:25 PM
·
Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
February 10, 2026 04:11 PM
·
