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Optimism grows among ethanol producers as exports drive 2026 outlook

Exports are expected to play a crucial role as U.S. ethanol producers look to remain profitable in 2026.

Renewable Fuels Association chief economist Scott Richman says the outlook for next year is positive.

“Producers remain optimistic, right now the export market is very good. And as long as we can sustain that, things will be good.”

Domestically, he tells Brownfield permanent year-round E15 would help the U.S. even the playing field with countries like Canada and India.

“Where they’ve continued to ramp up their usage of ethanol, the blend rate (or) inclusion rate in their gasoline supplies. Here it’s been a little bit harder without permanent year-round E15, and we’d like that to go into effect.”

Richman says the EPA’s proposed renewable volume obligations for 2026 and 2027 are strong, and RFA will be working to ensure those blending levels are met.