Global Ethanol Summit Brings International Buyers To Washington

Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Nearly 450 global ethanol buyers, producers, and policymakers are in the nation’s capital this week for the 2025 Global Ethanol Summit — a major industry gathering focused on expanding ethanol’s global reach and sustainability profile. Hosted by the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council with support from Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, and BASF, the three-day event features representatives from more than 40 countries and key U.S. trade partners.

The summit centers on three themes — ethanol is renewable and available, compatible, and affordable — while exploring new on-road and off-road applications, carbon intensity measures, trade barriers, and ethanol’s role in rural development and emission reductions. Pre-conference technical workshops featured presentations from U.S. and international experts, including POET, Growth Energy, the Global Ethanol Association, and the American Coalition for Ethanol. Council Director Alicia Koch said the event connects decision makers directly to U.S. agriculture and the broader ethanol value chain.

Before the summit, twelve trade teams from Asia, including delegations from the Philippines, Vietnam, and South Korea, toured U.S. corn regions and ethanol facilities in Iowa, North Dakota, and Nebraska. Nine more teams will travel after the conference to view logistics and production in other major grain states as the U.S. continues promoting ethanol’s export potential.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Global trade teams and summit discussions highlight expanding opportunities for U.S. corn and ethanol exports as nations explore renewable fuel options and reduced-carbon energy pathways.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Expert
Related Stories
Farm Bureau groups in Arkansas and Mississippi are working together to provide training and resources to rural communities.
Shaun Haney with Real Ag Radio joined us to break down the USMCA review and what Canadian producers and exporters should be watching in the months ahead.
Fertilizer relief may be limited despite the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz this week. AgriSompo’s Brooks York discusses marketing strategies, crop insurance considerations, and other tips for producers navigating volatility this planting season.
Reduced driver supply may increase freight costs this season.
Overall, the report suggests a shift toward more comfortable supply levels, with demand emerging as a key factor to watch in the months ahead.
Lower shipping costs favor corn, while soybeans face pressure.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cheesy, shrimp-stuffed, and full o’ Cajun flavor— Justin Wilson’s Asparagus and Shrimp Casserole recipe will have you sayin’ “I’m glad to eat you, I garontee!” with every bite.
I gar-on-tee this berry cobbler’s so good, it’ll have ya grinnin’ like a possum eatin’ a sweet tater!
The yield of this recipe depends on who’s hungry for Pickled Eggs. This is Eazy Cookin’!
A down-home, one-pot wonder with a Cajun kick.