In 2023, Brazil's combination of abundant harvests, enhanced logistics, and strategic deals with key buyers like China propelled it past the U.S. to become the world's leading corn exporter.

In 2023, Brazil surpassed the U.S. to become the world's premier corn exporter, a title the U.S. held for years. Brazil's rise to the top can be attributed to several factors: an impressive corn harvest, a depreciated currency making exports more competitive, and significant logistical advancements.

Notably, Brazil's northern ports, leveraging the expansive Amazon River basin, have recorded increasing activity, edging out the traditionally dominant Santos port. This suggests Brazil has effectively addressed its earlier logistical bottlenecks, allowing for smoother transportation of its abundant harvests to global markets. In contrast, the U.S. faced challenges including rising costs and droughts hampering its key agricultural regions.

Brazil also benefits from its climate, producing three corn harvests a year compared to the U.S.'s one. This natural advantage, coupled with improved infrastructure, suggests Brazil might maintain its top position for some time.

The dynamics further shifted when China, a major global agricultural buyer, decided to diversify its grain sources. By signing a deal with Brazil, China has reduced its dependency on U.S. grain, marking a significant shift in global agricultural trade patterns.