WASHINGTON, Feb. 16, 2017 - Just a few years ago, the U.S. was a net importer of Brazilian ethanol. But now the tide has turned.
“As U.S. producers have become more efficient and world sugar prices have risen, Brazil is now the top recipient of our domestic product,” said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Bob Dinneen. “U.S.-produced ethanol continues to be the lowest-cost, cleanest octane source on the planet. Our industry produced 15.2 billion gallons of ethanol last year, and while we continue to meet our domestic needs, ethanol exports are essential for future growth.”
Net exports of ethanol from the United States set a record of 1.01 billion gallons in 2016, according to a new eight-page summary of 2016 ethanol trade data published recently by RFA.
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Gross U.S. ethanol exports totaled 1.05 billion gallons in 2016, second only to 2011’s record of 1.19 billion gallons.
Meanwhile, ethanol imports registered at just 34 million gallons, the lowest total since 2010. Brazil was the leading destination for U.S. ethanol exports, followed by Canada and China. Together, the three countries accounted for 68 percent of total ethanol exports.
“Consumers in dozens of countries around the world are now reaping the benefits of U.S. ethanol: better engine performance, reduced emissions and lower cost. RFA will continue to work with its partners to build on the successes of 2016 and further develop the global market for ethanol,” Dinneen added.
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