Key Insights
The China corn market, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.10% from 2019 to 2024, presents a significant opportunity for investors and stakeholders. Driven by factors such as rising domestic demand fueled by a growing population and increasing consumption of corn-based products in food & feed applications, the market is poised for continued expansion. The industrial sector's utilization of corn for biofuels and other industrial processes also contributes to market growth. While challenges like fluctuating weather patterns affecting yields and government policies impacting import/export dynamics present restraints, the overall market outlook remains positive. The hybrid corn segment is likely to dominate due to its higher yield and improved characteristics compared to non-hybrid varieties. Key players like Grupo Arcor, Beijing Dabeinong Technology, and Cargill are leveraging technological advancements in seed breeding and agricultural practices to enhance productivity and meet the rising demand. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China, holds the largest market share, owing to its vast agricultural lands and substantial corn production. Future growth will likely be influenced by advancements in biotechnology, sustainable farming practices, and the evolving preferences of consumers towards healthier and more sustainable food choices.
The projected market size for China's corn market in 2025 is estimated to be around $XX billion (based on the provided CAGR and assuming a 2024 market size. A precise estimation requires the missing 2024 market size value). From 2025 to 2033, the market is expected to experience steady growth, driven by ongoing industrialization, expanding food processing industries, and the increasing adoption of corn-based biofuels. The competition among major players is intense, characterized by strategic alliances, mergers, and acquisitions, aiming to consolidate market share and leverage economies of scale. The segmentation by application (food & feed, industrial, export) will continue to evolve, reflecting shifts in consumer demand and government regulations. Growth in the export segment will be dependent on global trade dynamics and international demand for Chinese corn. Regional variations within China itself will also play a role, with some regions experiencing faster growth due to favorable agricultural conditions and investment in infrastructure.

China Corn Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the China corn market, covering market size, segmentation, key players, industry trends, and future outlook. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. The forecast period extends from 2025 to 2033, encompassing historical data from 2019 to 2024. This report is essential for industry stakeholders, investors, and anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of this crucial agricultural market.
China Corn Market Concentration & Innovation
The China corn market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with both multinational corporations and domestic players vying for market share. Key players such as Cargill, Nestlé, Syngenta, and Pioneer Hi-Bred hold significant positions, leveraging their global expertise and established distribution networks. However, domestic companies like Beijing Dabeinong Technology and Longping Hi-Tech are also substantial players, benefiting from strong local knowledge and government support. Market share data for 2024 indicates Cargill holds approximately xx% market share, followed by Nestlé at xx%, Syngenta at xx%, and Pioneer Hi-Bred at xx%. Domestic players collectively hold approximately xx%.
Innovation in the sector is driven by several factors:
- Technological advancements: The development of hybrid corn varieties with improved yields and pest resistance is a key driver. Furthermore, research into genetically modified (GM) corn is ongoing, though facing regulatory hurdles.
- Sustainable agriculture practices: The push for reduced fertilizer use, improved water efficiency, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions is shaping innovation efforts.
- Regulatory frameworks: Government policies promoting agricultural modernization and food security significantly influence innovation in corn production and processing.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate, with deal values totaling approximately xx Million in the past five years. These deals often involve strategic partnerships between international and domestic players to enhance market access and technology transfer. The regulatory environment and potential antitrust concerns influence the M&A landscape. Product substitutes include sorghum and other grains, influencing corn’s market share and pricing dynamics, while end-user trends like increased demand for processed corn products and biofuels contribute to market growth.
China Corn Market Industry Trends & Insights
The China corn market is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by robust domestic demand, increasing livestock production, and the expansion of the biofuel industry. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the forecast period (2025-2033) is estimated at xx%, reflecting a steady increase in corn production and consumption. This growth is significantly influenced by the rising disposable income and changing dietary habits of the Chinese population, which increases demand for meat and processed food products. Technological disruptions, such as precision agriculture techniques and improved seed varieties, further augment productivity and contribute to this growth. Market penetration of hybrid corn varieties is currently at xx% and is projected to increase significantly by 2033, driven by their superior yield compared to non-hybrid varieties. However, the market faces challenges from fluctuating corn prices and the potential impact of climate change on yields. Competitive dynamics are characterized by both domestic and international companies striving to capture market share.

Dominant Markets & Segments in China Corn Market
The dominant segment within the China corn market is currently the Food & Feed application, accounting for approximately xx Million of the total market value in 2024. This is driven by the massive demand for corn in animal feed and food processing industries. The Hybrid type segment also dominates, possessing approximately xx% of the overall market, as farmers increasingly adopt higher-yielding hybrid varieties. The northeast region is a significant producer and consumer of corn, primarily due to favorable climate conditions and established agricultural infrastructure.
Key Drivers for Food & Feed Dominance:
- Rapidly expanding livestock industry
- Growing demand for processed food products
- Government support for agricultural development
Key Drivers for Hybrid Dominance:
- Higher yields compared to non-hybrid varieties
- Improved disease and pest resistance
- Increased adoption by farmers
The Export segment holds a smaller share, primarily due to government policies aimed at ensuring domestic food security. However, exports are expected to show moderate growth, depending on global market conditions. The Industrial application segment also shows significant growth potential, particularly in the biofuel sector.
China Corn Market Product Developments
Product innovations in the China corn market center on the development of higher-yielding, disease-resistant, and stress-tolerant hybrid corn varieties, often incorporating biotechnology. Applications are expanding beyond traditional food and feed uses to include industrial applications such as bioethanol production and the manufacturing of various bio-based materials. Competitive advantages are largely based on yield improvements, superior quality traits, and enhanced adaptability to specific environmental conditions. The market is also witnessing the development of drought-resistant varieties to address the impact of climate change.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the China corn market based on Type (Hybrid, Non-Hybrid) and Application (Food & Feed, Industrial, Export).
Type: The Hybrid segment is projected to experience faster growth than the Non-Hybrid segment due to its superior yield potential. Competitive dynamics in the Type segment are primarily driven by seed companies competing on quality, yield, and pricing.
Application: The Food & Feed application currently dominates, with the Industrial application showing significant growth potential due to increasing biofuel demand. Export volumes are expected to remain relatively stable, subject to global market conditions and government regulations. Competitive dynamics across applications vary, with different players specializing in specific segments.
Key Drivers of China Corn Market Growth
Several factors drive the growth of the China corn market:
- Rising domestic demand: Driven by increasing population and consumption, especially for meat products and processed foods.
- Government support: Policies promoting agricultural modernization and food security are boosting investment and technological advancements.
- Technological advancements: Improved hybrid varieties, precision agriculture techniques, and biotechnological developments are enhancing yields and efficiency.
Challenges in the China Corn Market Sector
The China corn market faces several challenges:
- Climate change: Extreme weather events can significantly impact corn yields, posing risks to production and supply.
- Fluctuating prices: Global market dynamics and domestic supply and demand imbalances can lead to price volatility, affecting profitability.
- Regulatory hurdles: The approval process for genetically modified (GM) corn can create uncertainties and delays in the market.
Emerging Opportunities in China Corn Market
Emerging opportunities include:
- Expansion of biofuel production: Corn is a key feedstock for bioethanol, presenting a significant opportunity for growth.
- Development of value-added corn products: Increasing demand for processed corn products creates opportunities for innovation and diversification.
- Growth of organic and sustainable corn farming: Consumer preference for sustainably produced food is driving the adoption of environmentally friendly practices.
Leading Players in the China Corn Market Market
- Grupo Arcor
- Beijing Dabeinong Technology
- General Mills
- Adama
- Cargill
- Nestlé
- Syngenta
- Pioneer Hi-Bred
- Bunge Limited
- Longping Hi-Tech
Key Developments in China Corn Market Industry
- June 2022: The Chinese National Crop Variety Approval Committee released two sets of standards to clear the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in China. This could significantly increase corn production in the long term.
- July 2021: Increased corn planting by Chinese farmers led to a 6% boost in maize output, reducing reliance on imports. This demonstrates the impact of market dynamics on domestic production.
- June 2021: China initiated a program for sustainable maize production, aiming to increase yields while reducing environmental impact by 2035. This indicates a long-term commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
Strategic Outlook for China Corn Market Market
The China corn market is poised for continued growth, driven by increasing domestic demand, technological advancements, and supportive government policies. The expansion of the biofuel industry and the development of value-added corn products will further fuel market expansion. However, challenges related to climate change and price volatility need to be addressed proactively. Companies adopting sustainable practices and investing in research and development will be well-positioned for success in this dynamic market.
China Corn Market Segmentation
- 1. Production Analysis
- 2. Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 3. Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 4. Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5. Price Trend Analysis
- 6. Production Analysis
- 7. Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 8. Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 9. Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 10. Price Trend Analysis
China Corn Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China

China Corn Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 3.10% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increasing Demand for Corn as Animal-based Protein Sources
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 5.7. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.8. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.9. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value)
- 5.10. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 5.11. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.11.1. China
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 6. China China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Japan China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. India China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. South Korea China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Taiwan China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Australia China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of Asia-Pacific China Corn Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Grupo Arcor
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Beijing Dabeinong Technology
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 General Mills
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Adama
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Cargill
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Nestlé
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Syngenta
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Pioneer Hi-Bred
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Bunge Limited
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Longping Hi-Tech
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Grupo Arcor
List of Figures
- Figure 1: China Corn Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: China Corn Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: China China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: China China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Japan China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Japan China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: India China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: India China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: South Korea China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: South Korea China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Taiwan China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Taiwan China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Australia China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Australia China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Rest of Asia-Pacific China Corn Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Rest of Asia-Pacific China Corn Market Volume (Kiloton) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 49: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 50: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 51: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 52: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 53: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 54: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 55: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 56: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 57: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 58: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value) 2019 & 2032
- Table 59: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 60: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 61: China Corn Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 62: China Corn Market Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the China Corn Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.10%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the China Corn Market?
Key companies in the market include Grupo Arcor , Beijing Dabeinong Technology , General Mills , Adama , Cargill, Nestlé , Syngenta , Pioneer Hi-Bred , Bunge Limited , Longping Hi-Tech .
3. What are the main segments of the China Corn Market?
The market segments include Production Analysis, Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value), Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value), Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value), Price Trend Analysis, Production Analysis, Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value), Import Market Analysis (Volume and Value), Export Market Analysis (Volume and Value), Price Trend Analysis.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XXX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing Demand for Corn as Animal-based Protein Sources.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
June 2022: The Chinese National Crop Variety Approval Committee released two sets of standards to clear the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in China. For the commercial production of GM maize in China, the government has two steps in these regulations: a "safety certificate" and a "variety approval" before crops can be commercially cultivated in the provinces.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in Kiloton.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "China Corn Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the China Corn Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the China Corn Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the China Corn Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence