By Jamie Martin
The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has released its annual ethanol and distillers grains export reports, highlighting a record year for U.S. renewable fuel exports.
In 2024, the U.S. exported 1.91 billion gallons of ethanol, a 36 percent increase over the previous year, generating $4.3 billion in export revenue.
Canada was the largest importer of U.S. ethanol, with shipments exceeding 674 million gallons. Other key markets included the United Kingdom, the European Union, India, and Colombia. Meanwhile, ethanol imports into the U.S. dropped to just 4 million gallons, making it the lowest level in three decades.
In addition to ethanol, the U.S. exported 12.2 million metric tons of distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production used in animal feed. This accounted for 37 percent of total production, with an export value of $3.2 billion.
Mexico led as the top importer, followed by South Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The fastest-growing markets were Colombia, the European Union, and Turkey.
“2024 proved to be a terrific year for exports of renewable fuels and coproducts as the entire world saw the value of these American-made goods,” said RFA President and CEO.
The growing demand for ethanol as a clean fuel alternative and for distillers grains as an animal feed supplement has strengthened the U.S. farm economy.
The report underscores the importance of renewable fuels and their role in international trade. With strong demand and continued market expansion, the ethanol industry remains a key contributor to the U.S. agricultural and economic landscape.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-giovanni1232
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