Corn (Maize) Production by Country – 2025 Global Rankings

Corn, also known as maize, is one of the most widely produced grains in the world. It is a staple food in many countries and serves as a crucial ingredient in various industries, from food production to biofuel. Corn can be categorized into two main types: corn and green corn. Understanding the distinction between these types is essential to appreciate their roles in global agriculture and economies.

• Corn: This refers to the mature grain used primarily for animal feed, industrial products, and processed food. The global production of corn is a staggering 1.16 billion tonnes per year, highlighting its importance in the food supply chain.

• Green Corn: Also known as sweet corn, green corn is harvested while still immature and consumed as a vegetable. Its global production is significantly lower at 9.86 million tonnes per year, emphasizing its role as a fresh produce item.

Top Countries With Most Corn Production

• United States: The United States is the leading producer of corn, with an annual production of 348,750,930 tonnes. The country benefits from a vast agricultural infrastructure, a favorable climate, and advanced farming techniques. Corn is a cornerstone of the U.S. agricultural sector, extensively used for animal feed, ethanol production, and as a raw material in numerous industrial processes. The country’s large-scale farms and efficient supply chains reinforce its dominant position in the global corn market.

• China: China follows closely behind the United States, producing 277,203,000 tonnes of corn annually. Corn is crucial in China for livestock feed and as a staple in various food products. The country has invested significantly in agricultural research and development, enhancing crop yields and farming practices. Corn production in China supports both domestic consumption and the growing food processing industry, making it a vital crop for the nation’s economy and food security.

• Brazil: Brazil is a major player in the global corn market, with an annual production of 109,420,717 tonnes. The country’s extensive agricultural lands and favorable growing conditions allow for high yields. Brazil’s corn is primarily used for animal feed and biofuel production, with significant quantities exported to international markets. The robust agricultural sector, combined with continuous advancements in farming techniques, positions Brazil as a key exporter of corn worldwide.

• Argentina: Argentina ranks among the top corn-producing countries with an annual output of 59,037,179 tonnes. Corn is a vital crop for Argentina’s economy, heavily contributing to its agricultural exports. The country’s favorable climate and fertile soils support high corn yields. Corn production in Argentina is primarily driven by export demand, making it a crucial component of the nation’s agricultural sector and overall economic health.

• India: India produces 33,729,540 tonnes of corn each year, playing a significant role in its agricultural economy. Corn is essential for food security and is a major crop for millions of small-scale farmers across the country. It is used for both human consumption and animal feed. India’s diverse climate allows for multiple harvests annually, and ongoing agricultural developments aim to improve productivity and support the livelihoods of its farmers.

List Of Corn Producing Countries

Top 10 Leading Corn Producing Countries

1. United States: 348.8 million tonnes
2. China: 277.2 million tonnes
3. Brazil: 109.4 million tonnes
4. Argentina: 59.0 million tonnes
5. India: 33.7 million tonnes
6. Mexico: 26.6 million tonnes
7. Ukraine: 26.2 million tonnes
8. Indonesia: 23.6 million tonnes
9. South Africa: 16.1 million tonnes
10. Russia: 15.9 million tonnes

Top 10 Countries With Highest Corn Production Per Capita:

1. Argentina: 1,311,937 tonnes per million people
2. United States: 1,050,455 tonnes per million people
3. Paraguay: 884,521 tonnes per million people
4. Serbia: 611,899 tonnes per million people
5. Ukraine: 595,158 tonnes per million people
6. Brazil: 511,312 tonnes per million people
7. Romania: 423,007 tonnes per million people
8. Croatia: 410,473 tonnes per million people
9. Canada: 382,602 tonnes per million people
10. Kazakhstan: 366,014 tonnes per million people

These top 10 countries lead the world in corn production efficiency relative to their populations. Argentina and the United States top the list, reflecting their advanced agricultural infrastructure and favorable growing conditions. Countries like Paraguay, Serbia, and Ukraine also demonstrate significant corn production per capita, highlighting their effective use of agricultural resources. Brazil and Romania continue to showcase strong performances in the global corn market. This efficiency in corn production supports their economies and contributes to global food security.

Corn Production Over The Years

The production of corn has seen significant changes over the years. The following line graph illustrates the trend in global corn production from 1961 to 2022.

Corn production has witnessed a significant increase over the years. Starting from 205 million tonnes in 1961, the production has consistently risen, reaching unprecedented levels in recent years. This steady growth reflects advancements in agricultural technology, improved crop varieties, and expanded farming practices. The introduction of high-yield corn hybrids, better pest control, and enhanced irrigation techniques have all contributed to higher productivity. Additionally, increasing global demand for corn, driven by its versatile uses in food, feed, and biofuel industries, has incentivized farmers to boost production.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which country produces the most corn?
   • The United States produces approximately 348 million tonnes of corn annually.
2. How much corn is produced globally each year?
   • Global corn production is around 1.16 billion tonnes annually.
3. How much corn does India produce annually?
   • India produces around 34 million tonnes of corn annually.

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Source

FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations