US Corn Farmers Struggle with Higher Input Costs vs Brazilian Counterparts
US corn farmers are facing higher input costs than their Brazilian counterparts, eroding some of the productivity advantage they enjoy in global markets. According to a study by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), US farmers produce roughly twice as much corn per acre as Brazilian growers while using fewer inputs.
NCGA's research found that US growers are often paying substantially more per unit for seed and crop protection products, which can reduce the value of productivity gains on their operations. The study revealed significant price differences between the United States and Brazil for several agricultural inputs, including a 68% higher average corn seed price in the US compared to Brazil from 2023-2025.
NCGA is calling for greater transparency in how agricultural products are priced, with Chief Economist Krista Swanson stating that the group wants 'to open the door to conversations and learn more about how prices are set across the board.'