Episode Summary: Global Maize Market Weekly – June 22, 2025

• This episode offers an in-depth update on global maize developments as of June 22, 2025, with insights into production trends, government interventions, and market pressures.
• Brazil leads with a notable surge in corn production, driven by favorable weather conditions. The national supply agency, Conab, has raised its forecast to 128.25 million tons, an increase of 1.37 million tons from its May estimate. The second harvest alone is projected to yield 101 million tons, a 12 percent increase over the prior season and the second largest on record. This abundant output is contributing to downward pressure on international corn prices.
• In India, the state government of Uttar Pradesh has launched a new procurement program designed to secure better prices for maize farmers. Running from June 15 to July 31 each year, the initiative sets a minimum support price of approximately $22,002 per quintal. Payments are made directly to farmers' Aadhaar-linked bank accounts to streamline disbursement and prevent leakage.
• Malawi is facing a critical maize shortfall. Production is expected to reach just 964,620 metric tons against a national requirement of 3.5 million metric tons. The shortfall has been exacerbated by weak domestic procurement from key agencies and a lack of robust local markets. As a result, informal maize exports have risen, with Malawian maize selling at $176 per ton, well below the regional average of $250.
• In South Korea, the city of Yeosu is promoting agricultural innovation by cultivating a new corn variety, Suwon Chul No. 97. Known for its high grain fill rate and sweet, sticky taste, the variety is well suited for local conditions and represents part of Yeosu’s strategy to improve crop resilience in the face of climate change. It will be featured at the upcoming Syeomsyeom Yeosu Corn Festival.