Exports Support Farmers and Create Jobs in the U.S.
Agricultural exports are a crucial part of the U.S. farming industry, with more than 20% of farm production reaching international markets according to the Farm Bureau. These exports provide economic benefits, supporting millions of jobs and boosting rural communities.
In 2024, the U.S. exported $176 billion in agricultural goods to 189 countries. However, most of these exports went to a small number of markets, with Mexico, Canada, and China leading as top buyers. Free trade agreements have also played a major role, accounting for 49% of total exports.
The U.S. specializes in exporting different types of agricultural products. Consumer goods like meat, fruit, and nuts made up 48% of exports, while bulk commodities such as corn, soybeans, and cotton accounted for 32%. Processed products, including ethanol and soybean meal, represented 19% of exports.
Soybeans and corn remained key exports, contributing to 22% of total trade. Additionally, corn exports increase when used in livestock feed and ethanol production. Ethanol exports set a new record in 2024 at 1.9 billion gallons, consuming 684 million bushels of corn.
The economic impact of agricultural trade is significant. For every $1 of exports, $2.09 in domestic activity is generated, supporting over 1.25 million jobs in 2022. Agriculture accounted for 8.4% of total U.S. goods exported in 2024, highlighting its importance in global trade.
Trade policies influence market access for farmers. Tariffs on U.S. goods often lead to retaliatory measures, impacting exports. Ensuring stable trade agreements and global partnerships is essential for sustaining U.S. agricultural exports and protecting farmers' livelihoods.