LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Ethanol production increased last week, providing support to corn demand even as export activity dropped sharply, according to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association.
Production rose 0.4 percent to 1.12 million barrels per day, a five-week high and more than 10 percent above year-ago levels. The four-week average also climbed, putting output on pace for more than 17 billion gallons annually. Strong production levels continue to reinforce domestic corn usage tied to ethanol demand.
Gasoline demand — a key driver for ethanol blending — jumped 6.1 percent to a five-week high, running well above both last year and the three-year average. That strength is helping support the ethanol market despite mixed signals elsewhere.
However, ethanol exports fell sharply, dropping more than 60 percent on the week. At the same time, refiner and blender inputs declined to a six-week low, suggesting some near-term softness in blending activity.
Ethanol stocks increased 2.5 percent, with builds concentrated along the East and Gulf Coasts, adding to available supply.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong ethanol output supports corn demand despite export weakness.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Corn and wheat inspections outpaced last year, but soybean movement remains seasonally active yet behind, keeping basis and freight dynamics in focus by corridor.
October 21, 2025 04:00 PM
·
API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
October 21, 2025 12:39 PM
·
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
October 21, 2025 12:17 PM
·
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
·
The USDA’s latest Hogs and Pigs Report caught some analysts off guard. Inventories came in lower than expected, signaling tighter supplies ahead, even as producers return to profitability this year.
October 20, 2025 04:06 PM
·
Lyndsey Smith with Real Ag Radio joined RFD-TV to share a Canadian perspective on the discussions.
October 20, 2025 03:30 PM
·
