Colombia imported $4.5 billion in agricultural goods from the U.S. in calendar year (CY) 2024, a new record for the country, driven in part by significant increases in corn, distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol sales according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Exports to Colombia rose 21 percent compared to the previous year, the highest increase among the top 25 export markets for U.S. agriculture. Agricultural exports to Colombia have risen by an impressive 309 percent since 2012, when a trade deal was struck between the countries.
“Colombia is a key agricultural trading partner for U.S. farmers, ethanol producers and agribusinesses,” said Marri Tejada, U.S. Grains Council (USGC) regional director for Latin America (LTA). “After a challenging year in 2023, I’m encouraged to see the U.S. regaining its market position, with an 80% share of Colombia’s imported corn market.”
Colombia imports more than six million metric tons of corn annually, with the U.S. supplying approximately 78%, translating to a $1 billion market for U.S. corn exports. Looking ahead, the Council’s regional office in Panama projects Colombia’s corn market could expand to 9.5 million metric tons (MMT) by 2040, presenting a 7.5 MMT market opportunity for U.S. producers.
Learn more about the Council’s work in Colombia here.
About The U.S. Grains Council
The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability. Detailed information about the Council and its programs is online at www.grains.org.