US exported one-fifth of RD and SAF in second half of 2025

The United States exported around 20% of its renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) during the second half of last year, reflecting both rising domestic production and growing international demand for low‑carbon fuels.

This shift highlights the country’s expanding role in the global renewable fuels market, as well as the increasing appetite among foreign buyers seeking to meet tightening emissions targets, according to the Energy Information Agency.

The surge in exports was driven by several factors. Higher output from newly commissioned renewable diesel facilities boosted overall supply, while federal incentives continued to support production economics.

At the same time, international markets — particularly in Europe and parts of Asia — sought additional volumes to comply with stricter transport‑sector decarbonisation policies.

These regions often face slower domestic capacity growth, making US‑sourced fuels an attractive option.

For the US, exporting a fifth of its renewable diesel and SAF underscores both opportunity and tension.

While it strengthens the country’s position as a key supplier of clean fuels, it also raises questions about balancing domestic availability with global demand, especially as airlines and freight operators push for more SAF to meet their own sustainability commitments.