Ethanol Exports Rise 12.6% in 2025, Biodiesel Shipments Drop

The U.S. Census Bureau reported on Thursday that U.S. exports of goods and services totaled $287.3 billion in December 2025, down $5 billion from November. December imports totaled $357.6 billion, up $12.3 billion from November. The resulting trade deficit of $70.3 billion for December was widened by $17.3 billion, widening for the second consecutive month to close 2025. USDA later used Census Bureau data to provide more details for exports of ethanol, biodiesel, and distillers grains.

USDA said U.S. exports of ethanol totaled 220.3 million gallons (mgal) in December, up from 211.33 mgal in November and a record for the month of December. For the calendar year 2025, ethanol exports were 12.6% above 2024. Canada was the top destination in November, accounting for around 30% of all exports and was followed by the Netherlands and Jamaica.

U.S. exports of biodiesel totaled 9,775.1 metric tons (mt) in December, down from 10,167.2 mt in November, down 49% from December 2024 and the lowest December export total since 2020. Peru was the top destination in December, accounting for 86% of exports and was followed by Canada and Germany. For the calendar year 2025, biodiesel exports were down 55% from 2024.

U.S. exports of distillers grains totaled 894,665 mt in December, down from 933,557 mt in November, and down 12% from December 2024. DDG exports fell 4% in 2025 as compared to 2024. Mexico was the top destination in November, taking 18% of U.S. exports and was followed by Indonesia and South Korea.