Brazil has taken the top spot as the world’s biggest corn exporter, surpassing the United States in the harvest ending August 20231. It shipped out 56 million tons of corn, making up 32% of global exports2. The United States, once the top corn exporter for over a century, now exports about 23% of the world’s corn, with 41.3 million tons1.
biggest corn exporters 2022
| Country | Flag | Exports (tons) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 🇺🇸 | 58,595,339 |
| Brazil | 🇧🇷 | 43,389,332 |
| Argentina | 🇦🇷 | 35,409,336 |
| Ukraine | 🇺🇦 | 25,176,653 |
| Romania | 🇷🇴 | 5,539,733 |
| France | 🇫🇷 | 5,156,373 |
| Paraguay | 🇵🇾 | 4,598,421 |
| South Africa | 🇿🇦 | 3,918,752 |
| Poland | 🇵🇱 | 3,881,044 |
| India | 🇮🇳 | 3,486,496 |
| Russia | 🇷🇺 | 2,114,951 |
| Canada | 🇨🇦 | 2,080,947 |
| Hungary | 🇭🇺 | 1,994,683 |
| Myanmar | 🇲🇲 | 1,550,004 |
| Serbia | 🇷🇸 | 1,250,061 |
| Moldova | 🇲🇩 | 1,192,090 |
| Slovakia | 🇸🇰 | 1,117,985 |
| Bulgaria | 🇧🇬 | 963,526 |
| Croatia | 🇭🇷 | 878,297 |
| Pakistan | 🇵🇰 | 797,186 |
Key Takeaways
- Brazil has surpassed the United States as the world’s leading corn exporter.
- Over the last decade, there has been an erosion of U.S. dominance in exports of staple commodities like corn.
- Despite losing market share to Brazil, U.S. corn growers are still selling more corn in absolute terms.
- Brazil has been harvesting record amounts of corn through intensified planting methods, including double cropping after soybean harvests.
- The U.S. dollar’s strength has made U.S. corn less competitive in the global market.
Introduction to the Global Corn Export Industry
Corn is a key crop in the world market. It’s essential for food, animal feed, and biofuel, making its export vital for global demand.3 The global corn trade is influenced by production, trade rules, and the needs of importing countries.
Overview of Corn as a Commodity
The U.S. leads in growing, using, and exporting corn3. Every year, American farmers plant about 90 million acres of corn mainly in the Heartland3. The country’s corn exports make up around 15 percent of its total use3. Iowa and Illinois are the top corn producers, together making up a third of the U.S. crop3.
Importance of Corn Exports in the Global Market
Corn exports are crucial for the world market, fulfilling the increasing demand for food and animal feed3. The U.S., Brazil, Argentina, and Ukraine are major corn exporters, together making up over 50 percent of global trade4. Biofuel production has also boosted corn’s importance, with ethanol now using nearly 45 percent of U.S. corn3.
“Corn is a crucial agricultural commodity with a significant impact on the global market. It is a staple food, animal feed, and a source of biofuel.”
The Largest Corn Exporters in the World
Corn Exports by Country (2022)
Source: FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations)
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The global corn export market is led by the United States, Brazil, and Argentina5. The United States exports the most corn, with $19.1 billion, making up 37.2% of all corn exports5. Argentina is second, exporting $9.1 billion, or 17.6%5. Ukraine is third, with $5.9 billion, or 11.4%5. Brazil is fourth, with $4.2 billion, or 8.1%5. Together, the top ten countries export most of the world’s corn, controlling a big part of the market.
These countries’ rankings and shares have changed over time, showing shifts in corn production and trade1. Brazil has taken the lead from the U.S. as the top corn exporter, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture1. Even though the U.S. sells more corn overall, it’s losing market share to Brazil1. Over the past decade, the U.S. has seen a drop in corn exports, along with other crops like wheat and soybeans1. Drought has reduced U.S. corn production, making it less competitive globally.
1 Brazil has boosted its corn production and exports by planting more crops, like corn after soybeans1. China buys a lot of Brazilian corn, possibly because of past trade issues with the U.S1. Even though the U.S. sells more corn, it’s losing market share to Brazil1. Yet, U.S. farmers’ income hasn’t dropped much from losing the top spot in corn exports.
The Indiana Corn Queen Pageant had a special theme related to Brazilian Carnaval, suggesting a shift in the corn export dynamics.
United States: The Leading Corn Exporter
The United States is the world’s top corn exporter. It uses its vast farms and strong export system. US corn exports play a big role in the global corn market. The country is a big part of international trade2.
Major Corn-Producing States in the US
The cornbelt in the US includes states like Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska. These states are key to the country’s corn production and exports2. Together, they make a lot of the nation’s corn. This makes the US a top corn producing state worldwide6.
US Corn Export Trends and Destinations
The US used to lead in US corn exports, but now faces challenges. Drought and more demand for biofuel and animal feed have cut its market share. This is because countries like Brazil are now exporting more2.
Still, the US is a big part of the global corn trade. US corn export destinations include big markets like China, Mexico, Japan, and Colombia7. The US needs to keep up with market changes to stay a leading corn exporter.
“The United States has long been the world’s top corn exporter, capitalizing on its vast agricultural resources and extensive export infrastructure.”
Brazil: A Rising Powerhouse in Corn Exports
Brazil has become a big player in the global corn market, beating the US as the top corn exporter. In 2023, Brazil sent out nearly 32% of the world’s corn, while the US sent about 23%8. The US Department of Agriculture predicts Brazil will stay on top in 2024 too8.
Several things have helped Brazil become a big corn exporter. Better logistics in the North, more demand from China, and changes in US corn use have all played a part8. The US lost its top spot in corn exports once before, in 2013, due to a big drought. Now, it’s in second place for two years in a row8.
Brazil’s farming and animal production have grown by about 8% each year for the last 20 years9. Its agricultural exports have grown by 9.4% yearly from 2000 to 20219. Now, Brazil sends food and farm products to 222 countries and territories, making agriculture and food 29% of its GDP, worth $1.8 trillion in 20219.
Brazil’s growth in corn exports is changing the global food scene. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is making it hard for poor countries to get food because of high grain prices and the cost of fertilizer and fuel8. Brazil’s more corn exports could help keep the world’s food supply stable and lessen the effects of these global issues.
Argentina: A Significant Player in the Corn Export Market
Argentina is a big name in the global corn export scene, ranking among the top three10. The country’s corn focus is in the Pampas region, mainly in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Santa Fe. These provinces are key to Argentina’s corn output10.
Argentina’s Corn Production Regions
The Pampas region in Argentina is famous for its rich soil and perfect climate for growing corn10. This area, which includes Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Santa Fe, is a big part of Argentina’s corn production10.
Key Export Markets for Argentine Corn
Argentina sends its corn to many markets, with China, the European Union, and other Latin American countries being the main buyers10. It supplies about 20% of the world’s traded corn, making it a key player globally10.
But, Argentina’s corn production hit a roadblock in 2024 due to corn stunt disease10. The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange predicts a 20% drop in corn production to 1,830 million bushels in 202410. This could lead to more demand for corn from big exporters like the United States and Brazil10.
Even with the corn stunt disease, Argentina stays a big name in the global corn export scene. It adds to the industry’s diversity and dynamism10.
| Top Export Destinations for Argentine Corn | Share of Exports |
|---|---|
| China | 22% |
| European Union | 18% |
| Other Latin American Countries | 60% |
Ukraine: An Emerging Corn Export Giant
Ukraine has become a big name in the global corn export scene. It has a great climate and lots of fertile land for farming11. The country’s corn production has grown over time. Now, it’s a top exporter, especially after the war in Ukraine affected grain exports.
Ukraine’s Favorable Climate for Corn Cultivation
Ukraine’s farms are key to its economy, covering 55% of its land11. The weather is perfect for growing corn, with warm summers and just the right amount of rain11. Ukraine is the 6th biggest corn producer worldwide, making 41,900,000 MT, which is 3.5% of the world’s total11. It’s also the 4th largest exporter, sending out 23,000,000 MT, or 12% of the world’s corn11.
Many Ukrainians work in agriculture, making up 14% of the workforce12. In 2021, Ukraine made $27.8 billion from agricultural exports, which was 41% of its total exports11. This shows how important corn production and exports are to Ukraine’s economy.
Even with the challenges from the ongoing conflict, Ukraine keeps being a big player in the global corn market. It uses its natural benefits to stay a top exporter12. As the world deals with food security issues, Ukraine’s corn exports will keep playing a big role.
France: A Major Corn Exporter in the European Union
France is a top corn exporter in the European Union. It uses its vast farmland and advanced farming methods to produce and export a lot of corn13. It makes up 31% of the EU’s corn production, ranking second in the region13. In 2022, the area for corn planting in France went down by 90,000 hectares. This led to a 9.1% drop in the average yield over five years13.
Even with these issues, France is still a big name in European corn exports13. It plans to send 4.87 million tons of corn to EU countries in 2021-202213. France works with Romania to improve corn exports through projects at ports and borders. This strengthens its role as a key France corn exports and EU corn exporters.
France stands out as the biggest corn seed exporter globally, with $802 million worth of seeds sold in 202013. At the same time, it’s the 4th biggest importer, bringing in $161 million worth of seeds that year13.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Corn Production Share in EU | 31% |
| Decrease in Corn Planted Area (2022) | 90,000 hectares |
| Decrease in Five-Year Average Yield | 9.1% |
| Projected Corn Exports to EU (2021-2022) | 4.87 million tons |
| Corn Seed Exports (2020) | $802 million |
| Corn Seed Imports (2020) | $161 million |
France’s role as a top EU corn exporters is boosted by working with countries like Romania13. These partnerships make corn exports more efficient. This ensures a steady supply to the European market.
“France’s extensive farmland and advanced agricultural practices make it a leading corn exporter within the European Union, contributing significantly to the region’s overall corn production and trade.”
Russia: A Growing Force in the Corn Export Landscape
Russia is becoming a big player in the global corn market. It aims to grow its production and exports14. With its vast land and good climate, Russia could increase corn farming. By 2024, its population is expected to hit 145,165,00014. Yet, it faces challenges that might affect its corn exports.
Russia’s Corn Production Potential
Russia’s farming adds over 5% to its GDP and employs a significant part of the workforce14. A lot of its land is used for crops like sunflowers and potatoes14. This shows Russia could boost its corn production and exports with its vast land and climate.
Russian Corn Export Challenges and Opportunities
Russia has big challenges in its corn exports. The 1990s’ economic crisis hit hard, causing the ruble to drop and many banks to go bankrupt14. International sanctions after the 2014 and 2022 events also hurt its trade and logistics15.
But, Russia’s economy has grown and recovered, thanks to oil exports and currency devaluation14. With efforts to replace Ukrainian grain, Russia might overcome its hurdles and play a bigger role in the corn market.
| Key Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Russian wheat production over the past two marketing seasons | Record-high15 |
| USDA estimate of Russian wheat exports | Likely a record-high 51 million metric tons15 |
| Russia’s wheat exports in 2021 | $7.1 billion, accounting for 20% of global wheat exports16 |
Russia is working through challenges and seizing chances in the corn export market. Its influence in the global agricultural scene is set to grow and shape the industry151614.
Mexico: A Significant Corn Exporter and Importer
Mexico is a key player in the global corn trade, both exporting and importing this important crop17. Over the last ten years, its use of corn has jumped by 63%17. It plans to produce 60% of the corn it needs domestically17. Yet, it imports 95-97% of its corn from the U.S17..
Exports of corn from Mexico have changed a lot, affected by demand, trade deals, and global market trends17. Last year, U.S. corn exports to Mexico fell by 4.9%17. Imports of white corn from the U.S. dropped by 84.5% through May compared to the year before17. Still, Mexico is set to import 11% more corn this year17.
The USMCA in 2020 and Mexico’s rules on GM corn have changed its corn trade17. The U.S. now makes up 12% less of Mexico’s corn imports through May17. Mexico is finding new sources for its corn imports17.
| Corn Trade Metric | Value | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico’s white corn imports from the U.S. (% lower through May) | 84.5% | 17 |
| Overall U.S. corn exports to Mexico (% lower during the marketing year) | 4.9% | 17 |
| Mexico’s total corn imports (% increase compared to previous year) | 11% | 17 |
| Mexico’s domestic use of corn (% increase over the past decade) | 63% | 17 |
| Mexico’s corn production (% of domestic use) | 60% | 17 |
| U.S. share of Mexico’s total corn imports (% decrease through May of the marketing year) | 12% | 17 |
Mexico is also a big buyer of refined corn products, with the U.S. making up 77% of the market in 202118. Canada is also important, with a 100% market share for some refined corn products and 23% of high-value agricultural products in 202118.
The global corn trade is always changing, showing how complex and connected it is1718.
South Africa: A Corn Export Powerhouse in Africa
South Africa is a key player in corn exports across Africa. The main corn-growing areas are in the Free State, Mpumalanga, and North West provinces. These places have the right weather and farming methods, making them great for growing corn19.
South Africa’s Corn Production Regions
The Free State, Mpumalanga, and North West provinces are where most of South Africa’s corn is grown20. They have good weather and strong farming tools. This helps South Africa stay a big corn exporter in Africa.
The market for farm equipment in South Africa was valued at USD 0.81 billion in 202319. Big names like John Deere and Kubota help make corn farming better and more efficient. The value of South Africa’s agribusiness is set to grow, making the country even more important in the global corn trade19.
Even with challenges like drought, South Africa keeps being a big corn exporter20. It can usually meet its own corn needs and keep exporting well. This shows its strength in the corn market19.
South Africa’s farms made about 10% of the country’s exports in FY2021, with a total of $12.0 billion19. In FY2022, the US sent $263 million worth of farm products to South Africa. These included poultry meat and corn maize seed19.
The AfCFTA agreement is making trade within Africa easier, with 44 countries on board by December 202221. This will help South Africa grow its corn exports even more.
Looking ahead, South Africa is set to keep growing its corn exports. It has the right weather, farming skills, and location to stay a top corn exporter in Africa.
Emerging Players in the Corn Export Market
The global corn export market has long been led by the United States, Brazil, and Argentina. But, countries like Romania, Serbia, and Canada are now making their mark. They’re boosting their corn production and exports, changing the global corn trade scene.
Romania has seen a big jump in corn exports lately. Its good climate and farm policies have helped it stand out in Europe22. Serbia is also growing as a corn exporter. It’s using its location and better infrastructure to reach more markets worldwide.
In North America, Canada is becoming a key player in corn exports. It’s not always been a big corn producer. But, it’s been growing its corn fields and yields, taking a bigger part in the global market23.
These new corn exporters are making the global trade more diverse. They offer more sources of supply, helping to lessen the effects of problems in big exporting countries. As the world needs more corn, these countries are set to play a big role in meeting that demand.
“The rise of emerging corn exporters is a testament to the dynamic nature of the global agricultural market. As the world’s appetite for corn grows, these new players are helping to ensure a more diverse and resilient supply chain.”
These emerging corn exporters are changing the future of the global corn trade. They’re challenging the old leaders and offering new chances for farmers and buyers.
Conclusion
The global corn export market is always changing, with the United States, Brazil, and Argentina leading the way24. These countries are the top corn exporters. But, new players are joining the scene, thanks to changes in production, trade rules, and what countries need24.
As the world’s population grows, so does the need for food and animal feed. This means the corn export industry will become even more important25. Brazil has seen a big jump in corn production and exports, making up 31% of its non-perennial crops25. The United States and Argentina also play big roles in the global corn trade24.
The corn export market is set to keep changing, with new players and old ones adapting to new trends24. Understanding the big players, their production, and their export plans is key for everyone involved2524.
FAQ
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Source Links
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