Brazil ethanol sales reach historic high in Centro-Sul region

Ethanol sales in Brazil's Centro-Sul region reached a historic milestone in August, with 3.36 billion liters traded. According to data from UNICA, the record volume was driven by strong domestic demand and an expansion in international shipments.

Domestic consumption remains the primary driver, with significant growth in hydrated ethanol as consumers favor the biofuel over petroleum derivatives. The anhydrous ethanol segment also saw growth, supported by mandatory blending requirements in gasoline.

In the international sector, shipments have expanded. Meanwhile, analysts at StoneX suggest that Brazil may resume importing ethanol from the United States through the port of Suape in Pernambuco starting in January 2027. This potential shift is expected during the sugarcane off-season when import economics become more favorable due to higher domestic prices and lower US supply costs.