The top 10 largest maize exporters by trade volume

Robert Gultig

18 April 2025

The top 10 largest maize exporters by trade volume

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Written by Robert Gultig

18 April 2025

Introduction

Maize, also known as corn, is one of the most widely produced and traded commodities in the world. It serves as a staple food for many people and is also used in various industrial applications. In this report, we will explore the top 10 largest maize exporters by trade volume. We will analyze their financial data, industry insights, and trends to provide a comprehensive overview of the maize export market.

1. United States

Financial Data

The United States is the largest maize exporter in the world, accounting for a significant portion of global maize trade volume. In 2020, the US exported over 50 million metric tons of maize, valued at approximately $10 billion. The country’s maize exports are driven by its large production capacity and strong demand from international markets.

Industry Insights

The US maize export market is highly competitive, with key players including Cargill, Archer Daniels Midland, and Bunge. These companies dominate the maize export market and play a crucial role in shaping global trade dynamics. The US maize industry is also influenced by factors such as government policies, weather conditions, and international trade agreements.

2. Brazil

Financial Data

Brazil is the second-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 30 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $6 billion, driven by its large agricultural sector and favorable climate for maize production.

Industry Insights

The Brazilian maize export market is characterized by strong competition among domestic companies such as BRF, JBS, and Marfrig. These companies have invested heavily in production and logistics infrastructure to meet the growing demand for Brazilian maize in international markets. The industry is also influenced by factors such as currency exchange rates, transportation costs, and market trends.

3. Argentina

Financial Data

Argentina is the third-largest maize exporter in the world, with a trade volume of around 25 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $5 billion, driven by its competitive production costs and access to key export markets.

Industry Insights

The Argentine maize export market is dominated by companies such as Cofco, Molinos Rio de la Plata, and Vicentin. These companies have a strong presence in international markets and play a significant role in shaping global maize trade dynamics. The industry is also influenced by factors such as government policies, weather conditions, and trade agreements.

4. Ukraine

Financial Data

Ukraine is the fourth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 20 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $4 billion, driven by its fertile farmland and competitive production costs.

Industry Insights

The Ukrainian maize export market is characterized by companies such as Kernel, Nibulon, and Astarta. These companies have invested in modern agricultural practices and infrastructure to boost maize production and exports. The industry is also influenced by factors such as geopolitical tensions, weather conditions, and market demand.

5. Russia

Financial Data

Russia is the fifth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 15 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $3 billion, driven by its vast agricultural land and increasing maize production.

Industry Insights

The Russian maize export market is dominated by companies such as Rusagro, EFKO Group, and Miratorg. These companies have expanded their maize production capacity to meet the growing demand for Russian maize in international markets. The industry is also influenced by factors such as government policies, infrastructure development, and market competition.

6. South Africa

Financial Data

South Africa is the sixth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 10 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $2 billion, driven by its well-established agricultural sector and favorable growing conditions.

Industry Insights

The South African maize export market is dominated by companies such as Afgri Group, Senwes, and Kaap Agri. These companies have a strong presence in international markets and play a crucial role in promoting South African maize exports. The industry is also influenced by factors such as climate change, market trends, and government policies.

7. France

Financial Data

France is the seventh-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 8 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $1.5 billion, driven by its advanced agricultural practices and high-quality maize production.

Industry Insights

The French maize export market is characterized by companies such as Soufflet Group, Maïsadour, and Agrocorp. These companies have established strong partnerships with international buyers and have a reputation for supplying premium quality maize. The industry is also influenced by factors such as climate conditions, market competition, and trade regulations.

8. India

Financial Data

India is the eighth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 6 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $1 billion, driven by its growing agricultural sector and increasing maize production.

Industry Insights

The Indian maize export market is dominated by companies such as Alltech, Avitech, and Godrej Agrovet. These companies have invested in research and development to improve maize production and quality standards. The industry is also influenced by factors such as government policies, market demand, and export regulations.

9. Hungary

Financial Data

Hungary is the ninth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 5 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $800 million, driven by its fertile farmland and efficient agricultural practices.

Industry Insights

The Hungarian maize export market is characterized by companies such as Hungrana, Bonafarm Group, and KWS. These companies have a strong presence in international markets and have diversified their product offerings to meet the varying needs of global buyers. The industry is also influenced by factors such as market trends, technological advancements, and trade agreements.

10. Canada

Financial Data

Canada is the tenth-largest maize exporter globally, with a trade volume of around 4 million metric tons in 2020. The country’s maize exports are valued at approximately $700 million, driven by its modern agricultural practices and sustainable farming methods.

Industry Insights

The Canadian maize export market is dominated by companies such as Richardson International, Cargill, and Parrish & Heimbecker. These companies have a strong presence in international markets and have invested in innovative technologies to improve maize production efficiency. The industry is also influenced by factors such as climate change, market volatility, and trade policies.
In conclusion, the global maize export market is highly competitive, with key players from various countries vying for market share. The top 10 largest maize exporters by trade volume play a crucial role in shaping global trade dynamics and meeting the growing demand for maize in international markets. Factors such as production capacity, quality standards, market trends, and government policies will continue to influence the maize export industry in the years to come.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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