Mato Grosso corn surge fuels DDG market growth and lowers grain prices

Mato Grosso is experiencing a record corn harvest, with the 2024/25 season projected at 53.35 million tonnes and 44.27 % of the area already harvested. The abundant supply pushed the average price of a sack of corn down to R$ 40.44, a 1.53 % weekly decline. Two new corn‑ethanol plants are set to start operations, increasing internal demand for the grain and boosting production of Distillers Dried Grains (DDG), a high‑protein animal feed.

DDG output in the state has risen to about 3 million tonnes per year, driven by the expansion of corn‑ethanol capacity that consumes roughly 13.5 million tonnes of corn annually. Industry leaders highlight that DDG adds value to the corn chain, improves price stability for producers and reduces reliance on raw‑grain exports. China opened its market to Brazilian DDG last year, and officials expect the product to gain ground alongside soybean meal.

Mato Grosso remains Brazil’s leading corn exporter, having shipped 24.35 million tonnes this season—57.48 % of national corn exports. The state’s strong performance is shaping both domestic feed markets and international trade dynamics.