Grain exports deliver far more economic value than their direct sales figures suggest, according to an updated Value of Grains Exports study released by the U.S. Grains Council and National Corn Growers Association.
The analysis found that $28.96 billion in grain and grain product exports supported a total economic output of $86.2 billion in 2023, contributing $36.24 billion to U.S. GDP and supporting approximately 346,407 jobs nationwide.
"The value of export markets for the U.S. agricultural industry cannot be understated," said Bryan Jernigan, USGC director of communications. "For every dollar of grain product exports generated, $2.98 in business sales are supported across the United States."
The comprehensive study examines exports of corn, barley, sorghum, corn gluten feed and meal, distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), ethanol, and the corn equivalent of meat products.
State-level analysis demonstrates how local economies benefit from international grain markets, with downloadable infographics showing each state's export value and production figures.
The organizations have created an interactive online platform allowing users to explore state-specific data, providing producers and policymakers with targeted information about how agricultural exports impact their communities.
