Representatives from the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and the ethanol industry headed to China last month for an exploratory mission aimed at gaining critical insights into the country’s ethanol market and policy landscape.

Ringneck Energy CEO and USGC Ethanol Advisory Team member Walter Wendland was part of the mission. “China’s domestic ethanol industry coupled with supportive policies can play a key role in global biofuel expansion. By fostering stronger ties and cooperation, both countries can benefit from enhanced energy security and sustainability,” said Wendland. “As the U.S. ethanol industry continues to grow, a well-developed ethanol market in China will help pave the way for future win-win opportunities.”

Wendland joined Council staff based in its Beijing, China office to engage with various industry, academic and governmental stakeholders to deepen the understanding of China’s ethanol market, technology advancements and ongoing bilateral collaboration in renewable energy and biofuels. A highlight of the mission was a meeting with the National Energy Administration (NEA), China’s primary policymaker for renewable energy and biofuels sectors. During the meeting, the Council’s team shared updates on recent advancements in the U.S. ethanol industry, including supportive policies under the Inflation Reduction Act, and the growing global focus on biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

China announced its plan for a nationwide E10 mandate in 2017 by 2020, which was unofficially suspended in late 2020, leading to decreased blending rates in pilot regions. If China were to fully implement a national E10 program, it would require approximately five billion gallons of fuel ethanol, indicating significant market potential.