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Source: Renewable Fuels Association news release
Washington, DC — According to data released today by the Census Bureau, 2025 U.S. ethanol exports through November totaled 1.96 billion gallons, already surpassing annual shipments of 1.94 billion gallons in 2024, which had smashed the previous record. With one month of data to go, calendar year 2025 exports were on pace to exceed 2 billion gallons for the first time, which would represent 13 percent of U.S. ethanol production, also a record.
“Continued expansion in the export market provided a tremendous lift for the U.S. ethanol industry in 2025,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Record exports not only highlight the growing global demand for affordable energy solutions, but also underscore the vital role trade plays in strengthening the American energy sector, driving innovation, and supporting economic growth. One out of every eight gallons of ethanol produced in the United States is being exported, providing savings at the pump and cleaner air for drivers in dozens of countries across the globe.”
As in 2024, the new record was achieved even as some key ethanol markets–notably Brazil and China–maintain punitive trade barriers against U.S. ethanol. “We appreciate the Trump administration’s efforts last year to open markets and ensure a level playing field for American ethanol and for coproducts like distillers grains. We are hopeful these barriers will start coming down in 2026, and we are optimistic as other countries increasingly turn to ethanol as a key component of their fuel supplies,” Cooper said. “RFA will continue to work with the U.S. government and our partners to expand markets.”
Canada remained by far the top destination for ethanol, accounting for over one-third of total exports. Through November, 726 million gallons of ethanol had been shipped to this vitally important market, which also was already a new annual record. Notably, exports to the European Union were on pace to roughly double from 2024, making it our second-largest market. Other top destinations included India, the United Kingdom, and Colombia.
About the RFA
Since 1981, the Renewable Fuels Association has been the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry, working to drive expanded demand for American-made renewable fuels and bioproducts worldwide.
