In the vast global agricultural scenario, corn emerges as one of the fundamental crops that drives food security and the economy of many countries. With its versatility in applications ranging from human and animal feed to the production of biofuels and industrial products, corn has acquired unrivaled relevance in the global supply chain. Let's see why corn is so important and which are the largest producers in the world.
Why is corn so important?
More corn is produced than any other grain crop, and for good reason. It is a staple food for many people and one of the main components of livestock feeding. Corn is a multipurpose agricultural crop throughout the world. It is used in industrial products, biofuels and feed. It also helps feed a growing population. Corn is used as a high-fructose sweetener in many processed foods, and is the main ingredient in corn oil, corn starch, and corn syrup.
World corn production (in millions of tons) from 2011 to 2021. Source: Statista.
The 6 largest corn producers in the world
Over the last few years, the list of the largest corn producers worldwide has not generated many changes, where the following six countries continue to lead the world production rankings:
1 U.S
The United States is by far the largest producer and exporter of corn in the world, with production in the 2019-2020 season pegged at 346,0 million metric tons. The area planted with corn changes from season to season, but in total about 90 million acres of American land are planted with corn each season. Domestic consumption accounted for a large percentage of the total, and approximately half was used as fodder grain for livestock.
Corn production in the United States (in millions of tons) from 2007 to 2021. Source: Chacra Magazine.
2. China
China's corn production in the current season is estimated at 260,8 million metric tons, and is consumed almost exclusively domestically. Although the country is a large corn producer, the number of hectares Chinese farmers devote to corn is likely to decline now that the government has ended price supports for domestic corn. Farmers can be expected to shift to higher-value crops such as soybeans. If demand for corn remains high while supply declines, China could increase the amount of corn it imports.
Corn production in China (in millions of tons) from 2011 to 2021. Source: 3TRES3.
3. Brazil
Brazil is a large producer of many crops, such as coffee, sugar and soybeans, and is the world's third largest producer of corn. Of the 102 million tons of corn that the country is estimated to produce annually, most will be destined for domestic consumption.
Production and yield of corn in Brazil from 1998 to 2019. Source: Opportimes.
4. Argentina
Argentina is a major producer and exporter of corn. Its annual corn production is estimated at 51 million metric tons, but its national corn consumption does not even rank in the top 10 in the world. Although exact figures are not available, this means that it exports more than half of its production.
Estimated production of Argentina from 1988 to 2019. Source: Rosario Stock Exchange.
5. Ukraine
Ukraine had a record amount of corn produced in 2019 at 35,9 million metric tons. The country has used its rich soil to grow its production since its 2017 season, when it produced less than 25 million metric tons.
Corn harvest in Ukraine from 2010 to 2022. Source: Bloomberg.
6 India
The list of top producers remains fairly stable from year to year. That being said, India is slowly but surely creeping up the list. It currently produces 26 million tons of corn annually.
Maize production in India from 2010 to 2022. Source: Statista