U.S.: Exports of Corn, by year
YearExports,
in million bushels
20232,100
20221,661
20212,472
20202,747
20191,776
20182,065
20172,438
20162,294
20151,901
20141,731
20131,920
2012730
20111,539
20101,831
20091,979
20081,849
20072,437
20062,125
20052,134
20041,818
20031,900
20021,588
20011,905
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2001 to 2023
  • Published: Jan 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 28, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Peak and Trough in Corn Exports

The highest level of corn exports was recorded in 2020 with 2,747 million bushels, showcasing a peak in American corn exportation. Conversely, the lowest export volume occurred in 2012, with just 730 million bushels, indicating a significant trough. These figures highlight the volatility and susceptibility of the corn export market to various factors, potentially including global demand fluctuations, weather conditions, and policy changes.

Recent Recovery in Exports

After a decline to 1,661 million bushels in 2022, corn exports witnessed a substantial recovery in 2023, reaching 2,100 million bushels. This rebound suggests an improvement in international demand or competitiveness of American corn, marking a 26.4% increase from the previous year and indicating a positive trend in the agricultural export sector.

Trend Analysis Over Decades

Over the last two decades, corn exports have shown significant variability, with notable peaks and troughs. The years 2010 to 2020 exhibited a more pronounced fluctuation in export volumes compared to the previous decade (2001 - 2010), which maintained relatively steadier export figures. This variability could reflect changes in global market dynamics, trade policies, and climatic conditions impacting crop yields.

Impact of Exceptional Events

The year 2012 stands out as an anomaly with exports dropping to 730 million bushels, the lowest in the observed period. This dramatic decline could be attributed to exceptional events such as severe droughts or significant shifts in global trade policies, underlining the sensitivity of agricultural exports to external shocks.

Consistency in Export Growth

Despite fluctuations, the overall trend from 2001 to 2023 suggests a growth in corn exports, moving from 1,905 million bushels to 2,100 million bushels. This growth indicates an increase in global demand for American corn and improvements in agricultural productivity and export capabilities over the two decades.

Comparison of Decade Averages

Comparing averages of exports per decade, the 2010s demonstrated a higher average export volume compared to the 2000s, illustrating an upward trajectory in American corn exports over time. This comparison underscores the agricultural sector's adaptation to global market demands and advancements in farming technology and practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the highest level of corn exports recorded and how many bushels were exported?

The highest level of corn exports was recorded in 2020, with 2,747 million bushels exported.

What was the volume of corn exports in the year with the lowest export volume?

The lowest volume of corn exports occurred in 2012, with just 730 million bushels exported.

Terms and Definitions

Exports refer to any goods or commodities that are sold by a country to foreign markets. This is an important component of a country's economy, contributing to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Gross Domestic Product is the total value of all goods and services produced by a country in a specific time period. It serves as a comprehensive measure of a nation's overall economic activity.

This term refers to the food given to animals (livestock) that are raised for commodities such as meat, milk, or eggs. Corn is a significant component of livestock feed, due to its nutritional value and abundant production.

A commodity market is a physical or virtual marketplace for buying, selling, and trading raw or primary products. Corn, being a primary agricultural product, is widely traded on these markets. The performance of such goods on the commodity market can influence the economy.
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Corn, a versatile crop, is extensively grown across the world, with its uses ranging from human consumption and livestock feed to the production of ethanol fuel, sweeteners, and other industrial applications. Read more »