News Capsule: Major Shift in Bangladesh Corn Imports: Brazil and US Replace India as Key Suppliers

14-Apr-2026 12:09 PM

News Capsule: Major Shift in Bangladesh Corn Imports: Brazil and US Replace India as Key Suppliers
★ According to a recent USDA report, Bangladesh imported nearly 1.5 million tonnes of corn during the first 10 months of marketing year 2025-26, with Brazil accounting for 78% of total shipments, while the United States and India each supplied 11%.
★ India had traditionally been Bangladesh’s leading corn supplier due to competitive pricing, lower transport costs, and faster delivery times. However, since 2024, India’s exportable corn surplus has declined sharply as more maize is being diverted toward ethanol production, allowing Brazil to emerge as the dominant supplier.
★ USDA estimates that Bangladesh requires around 7 million tonnes of corn annually, of which nearly 1.5 million tonnes must be imported to bridge the gap in domestic production.
★ Lower global maize prices have encouraged traders and feed manufacturers to import and stockpile larger volumes in recent months.
★ The USDA projects Bangladesh’s total corn imports may reach 1.8 million tonnes in MY26, up 27.2% from MY25. However, the MY27 import forecast has been lowered to 1.7 million tonnes, supported by expectations of higher domestic production and larger opening stocks.