U.S.: Imports of Corn, by year
YearImports,
in million bushels
202325
202239
202124
202042
201928
201836
201757
201657
201568
201432
201336
2012160
201129
201028
20098
200814
200720
200612
20059
200411
200314
200214
200110
  • 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

Historical High in 2012

American imports of corn reached a historical peak in 2012 with 160 million bushels. This figure is significantly higher than any other year observed, marking a unique event in the trend of corn imports.

Trend of Decrease Post-2015

After reaching 68 million bushels in 2015, corn imports showed a general trend of decrease. By 2023, the import volume reduced to 25 million bushels, indicating a downward shift in reliance on imported corn.

Period of Stability Before 2012

Before the spike in 2012, corn imports were relatively stable, fluctuating mildly around 14 million bushels in the early 2000s. The period between 2001 and 2011 displayed a consistency in import volumes, suggesting a stable demand or supply condition before the sudden increase.

Sharp Variability After 2012

The years following 2012 witnessed sharp variability in import volumes, ranging from a high of 68 million bushels in 2015 to a low of 8 million bushels in 2009. This period indicates a lack of consistency in import needs or supply conditions, reflecting possible external factors influencing corn trade.

Comparison of Recent Years

Comparing the most recent years, there was a decline from 39 million bushels in 2022 to 25 million bushels in 2023. This decrease of 14 million bushels highlights a recent trend towards lower imports of corn into the United States.

Least Imports in 2009

The year 2009 recorded the lowest import volume within the dataset, with only 8 million bushels. This suggests a significant drop in either demand or availability of imported corn during that year, marking it as an outlier in the trend of corn imports.

Yearly Import Fluctuations

Yearly fluctuations in corn imports demonstrate a lack of a clear long-term trend, with volumes swinging widely from year to year. The difference between the highest (160 million bushels in 2012) and lowest (8 million bushels in 2009) imports within a short timeframe illustrates the volatile nature of corn import volumes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year did American corn imports peak in?

American corn imports peaked in 2012, reaching 160 million bushels.

What was the import volume in the lowest recorded year?

The lowest import volume was recorded in 2009 at a mere 8 million bushels.

Terms and Definitions

Imports are goods or services that are bought by residents of a country from foreign countries. Import indicates the act of bringing commodities into a country from abroad, often for the purpose of selling them in the local market.

Corn, also known as maize in many parts of the world, is a cereal grain that originates from Central America. It has become one of the most popular grains globally and is used for human consumption, animal feed, and in the production of ethanol fuels, sweeteners, and other products.

Trade balance represents the net difference between a country's exports and imports. It's a significant part of a country's current account, which includes other transactions like income from the foreign investments.

A tariff is a tax imposed on goods and services imported from another country. It's a common strategy used by governments to control trade, often with the intention to protect domestic industries.

A trade agreement is a treaty or contract between two or more nations that outlines the parameters of their economic relationship, particularly in terms of trade and investment. Trade agreements often regulate tariffs and can stimulate trade by removing barriers.

The commodity market is a physical or virtual venue for buying, selling, and trading raw or primary products, such as corn. These markets can influence the cost and supply of these commodities.
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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 »