Brazilian Ethanol Production Boom is Changing the Global Corn Market

The rapid growth of ethanol production from corn in Brazil is actively impacting the country’s domestic market, increasing consumption and potentially reducing export volumes. According to Farmdoc daily, corn ethanol production in this country has risen from 0.4 million tons in 2015–2016 to 18.4 million tons in 2024–2025, accounting for about 15% of the total corn production in the country. Currently, there are 25 corn ethanol production plants operating in the country, with another 15 under construction.

This is reported by AgroReview

The increase in demand for ethanol confirms the Brazilian government’s intention to raise the share of bioethanol in gasoline from 27% to 30%. This could lead to a reduction in grain exports, which are projected to decrease by 20% compared to the peak levels of 2023. This decline in exports is linked to falling demand from China and increased corn production in the USA, Argentina, and Ukraine.

Impact of the Brazilian Ethanol Boom on the Global Corn Market

The active development of the ethanol production sector in Brazil, based on the second corn harvest (safrinha), may weaken competition for American corn in the global market and support world prices. This process opens new opportunities for Ukrainian and other grain exporters, as changes in global demand and supply create new market conditions.

Prospects for the Grain Market in Ukraine and the Black Sea Region

The further development of the grain and oilseed segment in Ukraine and the Black Sea region will be discussed at the 23rd International Conference BLACK SEA GRAIN.KYIV, which will take place on April 24 in Kyiv. The event will bring together industry leaders for strategic discussions and experience sharing, creating a platform for forming new market strategies in the context of global changes.