Exports Support Farmers and Create Jobs in the U.S.
Agricultural exports are a crucial part of the U.S. farming industry, with more than 20% of farm production reaching international markets according to the Farm Bureau. These exports provide economic benefits, supporting millions of jobs and boosting rural communities.
In 2024, the U.S. exported $176 billion in agricultural goods to 189 countries. However, most of these exports went to a small number of markets, with Mexico, Canada, and China leading as top buyers. Free trade agreements have also played a major role, accounting for 49% of total exports.
The U.S. specializes in exporting different types of agricultural products. Consumer goods like meat, fruit, and nuts made up 48% of exports, while bulk commodities such as corn, soybeans, and cotton accounted for 32%. Processed products, including ethanol and soybean meal, represented 19% of exports.
Soybeans and corn remained key exports, contributing to 22% of total trade. Additionally, corn exports increase when used in livestock feed and ethanol production. Ethanol exports set a new record in 2024 at 1.9 billion gallons, consuming 684 million bushels of corn.