United States, Brazil and China lead global food export rankings

Global food security remains one of the most pressing challenges worldwide, drawing increasing attention from governments and international organizations each year. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the situation remains concerning: despite relatively stable global supplies of key agricultural commodities, consumer food prices continue to rise sharply.

Against this backdrop, the World Trade Organization (WTO) compiled a ranking of the largest food exporters, led by the United States. In 2024, the country exported agricultural products worth $181.3 billion, accounting for more than 12% of global agri-food trade. Key U.S. exports include soybeans, corn, and meat, with China and Mexico remaining the main destination markets.

Brazil ranks second with $144.4 billion in exports, while China holds third place with $74.8 billion. Brazil remains a leading global supplier of coffee and a major exporter of meat, while China stands out in exports of vegetables and seafood products.

Canada and Mexico complete the top five, with combined exports exceeding $100 billion in 2024. Canada is a major exporter of rapeseed, wheat, and grains, while Mexico leads in beer, tequila, and avocado exports, reflecting sharply different agricultural structures shaped by climate, geography, and trade strategies.

Despite these record trade volumes, FAO estimates that around 318 million people worldwide are suffering from acute hunger. The most severe situations are currently observed in Sudan, South Sudan, and Palestine, which are classified as “hunger hotspots” due to conflict, climate stress, and economic instability.

This highlights a structural paradox in the global food system: record export volumes coexist with deepening food insecurity and uneven access to food resources across regions.

Tags: China, Brazil, Canada, USA, Mexico