Historic Growth in Ethanol Exports

In 2024, the United States reached a historic peak in ethanol exports, totaling 7.23 billion liters (1.91 billion gallons). This represents an increase of 1.93 billion liters (510 million gallons) compared to 2023 and 757 million liters (200 million gallons) above the previous record.

The U.S. has maintained its position as the world's leading ethanol exporter, supplying ethanol to 80 countries across six continents. The rising demand for ethanol, particularly in countries adopting stricter environmental regulations, has fueled export growth, as many nations increase their biofuel blend mandates in transportation fuels.

Key Markets and Trade Dynamics

U.S. ethanol exports in 2024 were concentrated in several key global markets:

  • Canada – 2.55 billion liters (674.6 million gallons), 35% of total exports. Canada remains the largest and most stable market for U.S. ethanol due to strong trade relations and steady biofuel demand.
  • United Kingdom – 923 million liters (243.8 million gallons), 13% of total exports. The growth in U.K. ethanol imports is largely attributed to the transition to E10 fuel (10% ethanol in gasoline).
  • European Union – 746 million liters (197 million gallons), 10% of exports. The EU's decarbonization policies and increasing biofuel mandates have driven higher demand for U.S. ethanol.
  • India – 708 million liters (187 million gallons), 10% of exports. India doubled its ethanol imports in 2024 as part of its national plan to introduce 20% ethanol blends (E20) in transportation fuels.
  • Colombia – 506 million liters (133.7 million gallons), 7% of exports. Colombia re-emerged as a key market following policy changes in its energy security and sustainable fuel initiatives.

Other notable markets include Mexico (4%), the Philippines (4%), South Korea (4%), Peru (3%), and Singapore (2%).

Export Value and Economic Impact

The total value of U.S. ethanol exports in 2024 reached $4.3 billion, surpassing the previous record set in 2023. Despite a general decline in ethanol and commodity prices, higher export volumes compensated for the difference, leading to increased revenues.

Factors Driving Export Growth

Several economic, political, and industrial factors contributed to this record-breaking expansion in ethanol exports:

  • Global Carbon Emission Regulations – More countries are enforcing stricter decarbonization policies, increasing the adoption of ethanol as a cleaner fuel alternative.
  • Competitiveness of U.S. Ethanol – High production quality, stable supply, and competitive pricing make U.S. ethanol a preferred choice on the global market.
  • Strategic Trade Routes – 60% of U.S. ethanol exports are shipped through Gulf Coast ports, with Houston/Galveston (49%), Detroit (17%), and New Orleans (12%) playing key roles.
  • Stable Production – Despite increased export volumes, U.S. ethanol production remains steady, ensuring adequate domestic supply.

Ethanol Imports into the U.S.

Unlike rising exports, U.S. ethanol imports in 2024 were minimal—only 15.1 million liters (4 million gallons), the lowest level in 30 years.

Brazil remained the primary supplier, with nearly all imported ethanol used for specific industrial applications. The main entry points for these imports were Savannah (81%), Detroit (9%), and New York (7%).

Future Outlook for the Ethanol Industry

Global demand for ethanol is expected to continue growing, particularly in regions with active carbon reduction policies such as the EU, India, and South America. These markets are increasing ethanol content in transportation fuels, ensuring a sustained rise in U.S. ethanol exports.

The U.S. remains the leading global supplier of ethanol, strengthening trade relationships and expanding its presence in key international markets.

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