More than 450 international buyers and end-users of ethanol and its coproducts from more than 40 countries arrived in Washington, D.C. in October for Global Ethanol Summit 2025 (GES), to engage with experts from around the world on global ethanol opportunities and connect with industry partners.
Hosted by the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC), and supported by Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and BASF, GES is a premier industry event that features more than 400 policymakers, ministerial level officials and senior industry leaders, researchers, ethanol producers, traders, and industry stakeholders.
GES featured three themed days during the conference: ethanol is renewable and available, ethanol is compatible, and ethanol is affordable.
“We are thrilled to be able to host this third global edition of Global Ethanol Summit,” said Alicia Koch, USGBC director of global ethanol export development. “It is an unparalleled opportunity for decision makers and stakeholders in the ethanol value chain to access experts, resources and networking in a curated, concentrated forum – including hands-on experience for all of the trade teams that are able to interact directly with American agriculture.”
The conference addressed ethanol’s contributions to economic and agricultural development; its impact on reduced carbon emissions, the environment and improved human health; carbon intensity and implementation measures; trade policies; technological advancements; and on- and off-road innovation and applications.
During the event, USGBC announced an Ethanol Impact Tool that brings global data to life, offering insights into ethanol’s role in reducing emissions and particulate matter, supporting economies and advancing energy security.
“I am excited to take a moment to share that the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council is unveiling a new interactive tool here at the Global Ethanol Summit, developed in partnership with Faro90, that allows users to compare the blending economics and greenhouse gas reduction benefits of ethanol around the world,” said Mark Wilson, USGBC Chairman.
“Designed to support policymakers, industry leaders and researchers alike, this tool showcases the global impact of bioethanol with real-world data and the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions through data-driven innovation.”
USGBC sponsored three pre-conference and nine post-conference trade teams comprised of international industry leaders, buyers, ethanol producers, researchers and policymakers to corn-growing states to see advanced farming operations, explore ethanol production plants, view terminal and port facilities, to build their networks with U.S. suppliers, and visit the ethanol value chain.
“I am excited to see that in the spirit of global collaboration, access to free trade and a commitment to meet environmental targets and improve human health around the world, we have found a common bond that connects each of us – ethanol,” said Ryan LeGrand, USGBC president and CEO.
“The intention of this Global Ethanol Summit is to unite us in the common cause of influencing measurable societal change – to decarbonize transport for multiple sectors, to reduce particulate matter emissions for healthier air, and to make positive impacts today that are creating opportunities for future generations.”
The relationships built at GES will encourage new opportunities for U.S. ethanol exports and foster long-term commitments to developing markets, enabling trade and improving lives.
USGBC Chairman Mark Wilson announces the release of the Ethanol Impact Tool, designed by USGBC and Faro90. The tool will provide global and country-specific data on ethanol blending economics and greenhouse gas reductions.
