Targeting a Trade Imbalance in Ethanol Market

The U.S. ethanol industry may soon see changes as President Donald Trump considers reciprocal tariffs on countries that limit American imports. Brazil, which has placed an 18 percent tariff on U.S. ethanol, is a likely target. Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley supports the move. “We’re very encouraged that the President and the White House are taking a look at the imbalance between Brazilian ethanol and U.S. ethanol.” Bliley emphasized the need for fair trade, noting that American ethanol producers have been “nearly completely blocked off from the Brazilian market while Brazilian ethanol enjoyed unfettered access to the U.S.” He hopes the new tariffs will push countries like Brazil and China to honor trade agreements and create a level playing field for U.S. producers.