The USDA reports that U.S. corn exports reached a nearly six-year high in the first quarter of the 2024-25 marketing year. They were driven by plentiful supply, competitive pricing and a weak harvest in Brazil.

Exports totaled 13 million tons, the highest since 2018-19. The USDA projects they will reach 62.2 million tons by year-end. That would mark the third-highest volume on record.

Brazil, traditionally a strong competitor, saw its exports fall to a three-year low due to weather challenges and increased domestic ethanol production. China has reduced the demand for Brazilian corn as it looks to become more self-reliant in food production. Monthly Chinese corn imports have remained under 500,000 tons since August 2024, the lowest since March 2020.

The U.S. capitalized on Brazil’s diminished market presence with increased sales to nontraditional partners like Colombia, which reached a record 3.6 million tons. Mexico is facing ongoing drought conditions. It remains the top buyer, with imports expected to match last year’s record levels.

Read the latest on strong U.S. corn exports here.