Global Maize, Wheat and Rice Output Projected to Fall from Record Levels in 2026
Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) | September 05, 2026
ROME (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 05th Sep, 2026) Global cereal production in 2026 is now estimated at 2,980 million tonnes, a 2.0% decrease from 2025 but still the second-largest harvest on record, according to the latest Cereal Supply and Demand Brief released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
World Maize Output: The forecast for global maize production has been revised down to 1,309 million tonnes. Deteriorating crop prospects in France and Poland are expected to offset improved yields in Argentina and Brazil.
World Wheat Production: Global wheat output is projected at 810.7 million tonnes, 3.8% lower than 2025 but still the second-largest outturn on record.
World Rice Output: Global rice production is anticipated to decline to 553.1 million tonnes in 2026/27, by 1.9% from the previous season's all-time high due to reduced producer margins and weather conditions linked to El Niño.
Global Cereal Utilization: FAO’s updated forecast for global total cereal utilization in 2026/27 is 2,965 million tonnes, a slight increase from the previous year. Coarse grains and rice consumption are projected to rise while wheat consumption is expected to fall.
World Cereal Stocks: World cereal stocks at the end of seasons in 2027 are forecast to reach 947.2 million tonnes, slightly higher than opening levels thanks to a build-up in wheat reserves in Russia and Ukraine linked to restricted export routes. The global cereal stocks-to-use ratio at the end of seasons in 2026/27 is estimated at 31.6%, down from 31.9% in the previous season but still considered comfortable historically.
Global Cereal Trade: World trade in cereals is projected to decline from record levels in 2026/27 to 509.3 million tonnes.