Coming off a record-breaking 2024, U.S. ethanol exports kicked off 2025 with momentum, according to the latest trade monitor report from the Renewable Fuels Association.

Ethanol exports increased two percent in January to reach a nine-month high of 198.1 million gallons (mg), fueled by surging shipments to India, which tripled its imports to 35.1 mg, the highest in four years. Canada retained its position as the top destination for the 46th consecutive month despite a 14% decline to 53.9 mg, with denatured ethanol making up 90% of the total. Exports to the European Union slowed 15% from December’s record high to 30.3 mg, predominantly shipped to the Netherlands, while the United Kingdom slashed imports in half to 14.1 mg. Other larger markets included Colombia (up 24% to 13.4 mg), the Philippines (down 4% to 11.3 mg), and Brazil (up 22% to 9.5 mg, a nine-month high). China remained virtually absent from the market.

The U.S. imported 1.7 mg of fuel ethanol in January, predominantly from Brazil. Additionally, 12.5 mg of industrial ethanol were imported, of which 68% was from Brazil and 26% was from Canada.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS) declined 24% in January to a 21-month low of 811,480 metric tons (mt) on mixed global demand. Mexico and South Korea collectively made up 41% of total DDGS exports—Mexico increased shipments by 17% to 229,331 mt, while South Korea lifted 10% to 105,644 mt.

Other expanding markets included Japan (up 13% to 46,391 mt), Thailand (up 55% to 25,335 mt), and China (up 20% to 20,569 mt). However, several key markets scaled back purchases, including Vietnam (-11% to 93,606 mt), Canada (-12% to 66,996 mt), Indonesia (-28% to 54,389 mt, a 2-year low), Turkey (-51% to 47,541 mt), and the European Union (-46% to 26,387 mt). The remaining 12% of DDGS exports were distributed across 19 countries.