U.S. Ethanol Exports Surge Past 1 Billion Gallons

Strong ethanol exports support long-term growth in corn demand.

Aerial of cargo ship carrying container for export cargo from cargo yard port to other ocean concept smart freight shipping ship front view_Photo by Yellow Boat via AdobeStock_1601867486.jpg

Aerial of a cargo ship carrying a container of exports.

Photo by Yellow Boat via Adobe Stock

LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. ethanol exports have surpassed one billion gallons in the current marketing year, putting shipments on pace to exceed last year’s record and reinforcing strong demand for corn-based fuel globally, according to the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council.

Exports are up 13 percent year-over-year, driven by expanding international demand and improved market access. Canada remains the top buyer, importing 432 million gallons so far this year, while the European Union has nearly doubled purchases as it works toward renewable fuel targets.

Japan remains a steady customer, while Brazil has sharply increased its imports, and emerging markets like Nigeria are showing consistent growth. Higher ethanol blend rates and policy shifts in key countries are helping drive that demand.

For U.S. agriculture, strong ethanol exports translate directly into sustained demand for corn. As production continues to increase, export markets play a critical role in absorbing supply and supporting prices.

The industry also sees future growth tied to new uses, including sustainable aviation fuel and marine fuel applications, which could further expand demand.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong ethanol exports support long-term growth in corn demand.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Related Stories
USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
Credit stress is building for row-crop farms despite steady land values and slight price improvements.
Mike Steenhoek, with the Soy Transportation Commission, shares his outlook on current grain stocks and transportation lines amid bumper crops filling bins across the United States.
American soybean and corn leaders, along with Canada’s AgriFood sector, testified before the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office in support of the trade pact between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

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:

Prompt removal of Christmas trees and careful handling of decorations reduce winter fire risk during an already high-demand season for emergency services.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.
Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.