Washington: Ethanol exports from the United States have crossed the 1 billion gallon mark in the 2025–26 marketing year, putting shipments on course to exceed last year’s record of 2.1 billion gallons, according to figures from the US Department of Agriculture.
The latest data shows exports have risen by 13 per cent compared to the previous year, driven by steady global demand and improved access to overseas markets, Ethanol Producer Magazine reported.
Alicia Koch of the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council said recent policy changes and the easing of trade barriers in several countries have helped strengthen the position of U.S. ethanol in global markets.
Canada continues to be the largest importer, buying 432 million gallons so far this year, a rise of nearly 17 per cent, supported by higher blending levels in some regions.
Demand from the European Union has also increased sharply, with imports nearly doubling to 252 million gallons as countries move to meet renewable fuel targets.
Japan has maintained steady purchases at 88 million gallons, while Brazil has recorded a sharp jump in imports, rising by 350 per cent to 78 million gallons. Nigeria has also seen growth, with imports up 16 per cent to 20 million gallons.
Industry observers say rising use of ethanol in areas such as shipping and aviation fuel, along with higher blending requirements, is likely to keep demand strong.
The increase in exports is expected to support farm incomes in the U.S., as higher agricultural output requires larger markets to absorb supply.
