Grain Production: Production Volumes, by type
Type of grainProduction,
in million metric tons
Corn1,235.73
Wheat784.91
Rice (milled)513.54
Barley142.87
Sorghum60.01
Oats19.42
Rye11.60
  • Region: Worldwide
  • Time period: 2023/2024
  • Published: Jan 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 27, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Corn leads in global grain production

Corn stands out as the most produced grain worldwide, with a staggering 1235.73 million metric tons. This figure not only highlights the crop's dominance in agriculture but also underscores its vital role in feeding populations and supporting economies.

The trio of staple grains: Corn, Wheat, and Rice

Together, corn, wheat, and rice form the cornerstone of global food security, accounting for a combined 2534.18 million metric tons of production. These grains are essential, providing the bulk of calories and nutrition to billions worldwide.

Wheat and Rice's significant contribution

Wheat, with 784.91 million metric tons, and rice, at 513.54 million metric tons, are the second and third most produced grains, respectively. Their substantial yields reflect their importance as staple foods across diverse cultures and continents.

Barley and Sorghum's role in diversification

Barley and sorghum contribute 202.88 million metric tons combined, showcasing their role in agricultural diversification. These grains are crucial for food, feed, and industrial purposes, illustrating the variety within global grain production.

Minor grains play a unique role

Oats and rye, with productions of 19.42 and 11.60 million metric tons, respectively, might represent a smaller fraction of the global output but are invaluable for their specific uses in food, feed, and niche markets.

Dominance of top three grains in global agriculture

The production volumes of corn, wheat, and rice demonstrate their unrivaled significance in global agriculture. With corn leading the way, these grains are pivotal in meeting the world's food supply demands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which grain is the most produced worldwide?

The most produced grain worldwide is corn, with a production of 1235.73 million metric tons.

What is the combined production of corn, wheat, and rice?

The combined production of corn, wheat, and rice is 2534.18 million metric tons.

Terms and Definitions

Agriculture is the science, art, and practice of cultivating plants and livestock. It involves soil cultivation, growing and harvesting crops like grains, vegetables, fruits, and rearing animals such as poultry, sheep and cattle for food and other products.

Global grain production refers to the total amount of grain produced worldwide in a given period, typically measured annually. It includes grains like wheat, rice, corn, oats, barley, rye, and millet, among others.

Wheat is a type of cereal grain, often golden in color, which is a staple food in many parts of the world. It is ground into flour for use in a variety of food products including bread, pasta, and pastries.

Corn, also known as maize, is a large grain plant native to the Americas. It is one of the most widely grown grain crops globally, serving both as a staple food for humans and feed for livestock.

Barley is a cereal grain known for its rich, nutlike flavor and its ability to adapt to a variety of climates. It's used for food, in the production of alcoholic beverages like beer, and as a healthy animal feed.

Cultivation denotes the act of preparing and using land for the growth of crops. This practice includes land preparation, sowing, managing growth, and harvest.

Harvest is the process of gathering mature crops from the fields. It denotes the end of the growing season, or the period of time when the crop is ready to be gathered.

Livestock refers to domesticated animals raised in an agricultural setting to produce commodities such as food, fiber, and labor. This term typically includes cattle, pigs, chickens, and sheep.
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Agronomy
Agronomy is a branch of agricultural science that primarily focuses on crop production and soil management, working to balance the economic and social requirements of humans with the need for environmental protection. Read more »