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
Considering raising your own replacements instead of buying bred heifers? Three key factors to consider before investing capital.
October 08, 2025 03:03 PM
·
Reliable, clearly graded middle meats still anchor demand; programs that deliver consistent eating quality and simple, confidence-building menus capture more repeat visits—and more value—back through the beef chain.
October 08, 2025 12:57 PM
·
Prepare for tighter cash flow, delayed capital buys, and policy-driven risk management this fall.
October 08, 2025 12:12 PM
·
Jed Bower, the incoming president of the National Corn Growers Association, joined us for his sector’s perspective on the ongoing government shutdown.
October 08, 2025 11:41 AM
·
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.
October 08, 2025 11:19 AM
·
Plan for a cooler global trade market in 2026 with tighter margins on exports, potential rate shifts, and premiums for reliable deliveries into Asian and African growth markets.
October 07, 2025 03:24 PM
·
