This episode presents a comprehensive overview of Brazil's maize market as of November 16, 2025.
- For the 2025–2026 agricultural year, Brazil's maize production is expected to decline slightly by 1.6 percent to 138.84 million tons. This dip is attributed to reduced productivity in the second crop following an exceptional prior season. Yield projections have been revised to 6,010 kilograms per hectare.
- Despite lower yields, planted area is forecasted to expand by 4 percent to 22.72 million hectares, driven by better economic returns compared to crops like rice and beans. Domestic maize consumption is projected to grow by 4.5 percent to 94.6 million tons, fueled by rising demand from the ethanol sector, underscoring the grain’s strategic value in Brazil’s energy matrix. Exports are expected to rise significantly by 16.2 percent, reaching 46.5 million tons, although ending stocks may decrease slightly by 3.99 percent to 13.55 million tons.
- Regionally, early planting and healthy crop conditions are reported in Southern Brazil, though some areas face challenges from reduced rainfall and hailstorms. Southeast Brazil shows mixed progress: Minas Gerais is experiencing delays due to dry weather, while São Paulo benefits from favorable conditions, especially in seed-producing zones. In the Midwest, planting is well-supported by irrigation systems in states like Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul.
- The North and Northeast regions display varied patterns. Bahia is off to an early start with adequate rainfall, while Rondonia contends with drought and pest issues. The third crop, or safrinha tardia, mainly in irrigated areas of the Northeast, is forecasted at 2.89 million tons. Continued rainfall will be crucial, though excess humidity in Sergipe may reduce yields.
