Corn, also known as maize, is one of the world’s most vital cereal crops, serving as a staple food for billions of people and a key ingredient in various industrial products. As of 2024, several countries stand out as the leading producers of corn, contributing significantly to global food security and economic prosperity. Let’s delve into the top 10 corn-producing nations.
Global corn production witnessed a slight dip from the initial forecast of 1.17 billion metric tons in 2023, settling at 1.15 billion. However, the International Grains Council (IGC) projects a historic surge in global corn output to 1.233 billion metric tons for the 2024–2025 marketing year. This growth is attributed to factors like population expansion, increased demand for animal feed and industrial purposes, and heightened utilization of corn starch. With advancements in technology enhancing corn yields, Northern and Southern America, along with Asia Pacific, stand as significant contributors to the global corn market. Leading the pack, the United States produced 389.7 million metric tons of corn in the 2023-2024 marketing year, securing its position as the largest corn-producing nation, followed by China and Brazil.
The United States stands as the world’s largest corn producer, cultivating maize for both domestic and international markets. With an annual production of 382 million tonnes, corn holds a pivotal role in the nation’s agricultural landscape, serving as a vital feed crop and contributing significantly to industrial processes. Over 950,000 corn farms, predominantly family-owned, dot the American heartland, with dent or field corn comprising 99% of total production. Key corn-producing states include Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Illinois.
United States with the corn production of 382 million tonnes, stands as the largest corn producer in the world, followed by China, Brazil, European Union and Argentina.
Here is the list of top-10 corn producing countries in the world 2024:
| Top-10 Corn Producing Countries in the World 2024 | |||
| Rank | Country | Annual Production (in million tonnes) | Share in Global Production (%) |
| 1. | United States | 382 | 31.54 |
| 2. | China | 277 | 22.8 |
| 3. | Brazil | 129 | 10.6 |
| 4. | European Union | 59.70 | 4.9 |
| 5. | Argentina | 55 | 4.5 |
| 6. | India | 34.30 | 2.8 |
| 7. | Ukraine | 28 | 2.3 |
| 8. | Mexico | 27.40 | 2.3 |
| 9. | South Africa | 16.80 | 1.4 |
| 10. | Canada | 15.30 | 1.3 |
Annual Production: 382 million tonnes
Share in Global Production: 31.54%
The United States leads the world in corn production, with maize being the primary feed crop consumed domestically. With an annual output of 382 million tonnes, corn plays a crucial role in both international trade and domestic consumption, serving as a staple food ingredient. Over 950,000 corn farms dot the American landscape, predominantly family-owned. The majority of production, 99%, comprises dent or field corn, with key corn-producing states including Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Illinois.
Annual Production: 277 million tonnes
Share in Global Production: 22.8%
China holds the position of the world’s second-largest corn producer, primarily utilizing its corn for animal feed and in the commercial feed industry. Although initially focused on animal feed, corn has emerged as a robust alternative to rice in China. With an annual output of 277 million tonnes, approximately 20% of China’s corn production is exported. Government support and technological advancements bolster corn production, with high-yield varieties like Guidan 162, Jinyu No. 8, and Xianyu 335 leading the way. Key corn-producing states include Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Shandong.
Annual Production: 129 million tonnes
Share in Global Production: 10.6%
Brazil claims the position of the world’s third-largest corn producer, with corn being the country’s second most significant agricultural commodity. Regional variations in Brazil’s corn production arise from climatic differences and the crop’s flowering phase. Utilizing techniques like the direct drilling system, Brazil cultivates corn in three annual crops spanning February to December. With an annual production of 129 million tons, 33% is exported, 12% used in industrial processes, and the remainder serves as animal feed. The predominant variety is yellow dent corn, with Mato Grosso leading in corn yields.
United States with the corn production of 382 million tonnes, stands as the largest corn producer in the world.
China holds the position of the world's second-largest corn producer, primarily utilizing its corn for animal feed and in the commercial feed industry.
The top-5 corn producing countries in the world are: United States, China, Brazil, European Union and Argentina.
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