RANK

PLANT

GLOBAL PRODUCTION

(metric tonnes)

DESCRIPTION

1

Sugarcane

1.9 billion

A major source of sugar, ethanol, and molasses, sugarcane is grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

2

Maize (Corn)

1.4 billion

An essential staple crop, maize is used for food, animal feed, and industrial products, with high yields in North America.

3

Wheat

765 million

A staple grain used for bread, pasta, and numerous other products, wheat is grown in diverse climates across the globe.

4

Rice

738 million

A primary food source for over half the world’s population, rice is cultivated mainly in Asia and requires flooded fields.

5

Potatoes

370 million

A versatile tuber, potatoes are grown in a variety of climates and are a key food source in many countries.

6

Soybeans

356 million

Widely used for oil and animal feed, soybeans are crucial in agriculture and are primarily grown in the Americas.

7

Cassava

289 million

A drought-resistant root crop, cassava is a staple food in many tropical regions and is processed into various forms, including flour.

8

Bananas

153 million

A major fruit crop, bananas are grown in tropical regions and are a significant food source, both for local consumption and export.

9

Barley

138 million

Used primarily as animal feed and in brewing, barley is cultivated in temperate regions and has various hardy varieties.

10

Oats

25 million

Grown primarily for livestock feed and human consumption, oats are valued for their nutritional benefits and health properties.