Brazil Sets Soybean Processing and Export Records Amid Global Demand Surge

Brazil’s soybean industry is breaking records in 2025, driven by strong global demand for soybean meal, according to the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries (Abiove).

The association revised its forecast, projecting a record soybean processing volume of 57.5 million metric tons, up 400,000 tons from January estimates. Soybean meal exports are expected to reach 23.6 million tons, surpassing the previous record of 23.14 million tons set in 2024.

Asian markets play a key role in this growth. Indonesia imported nearly 4 million tons of Brazilian soybean meal in 2024, while Thailand purchased 2.7 million tons, and Vietnam imported over 800,000 tons.

The European Union remains Brazil‘s largest market, importing around 10 million tons in 2024. However, this marked a slight decline compared to earlier years due to increased competition from Argentina.

China continues to process soybeans domestically from raw imports, primarily sourced from Brazil. Brazil’s soybean meal production is also projected to hit a record 44 million tons in 2025, a 3% increase from the previous year.

Domestic consumption is expected to reach 19.5 million tons, supported by rising demand for animal feed and biodiesel production. The country’s growing biodiesel mandate has further boosted soybean oil production, which is forecasted at a record 11.45 million tons this year.

Brazil’s Record Soybean Harvest and Export Outlook

Despite record export volumes, revenue from soybean meal exports is expected to drop to $8.4 billion in 2025. This is down from $9.69 billion in 2024 due to falling global prices.

Soybean grain exports remain Brazil’s top revenue generator, with projected earnings of $44.6 billion. Soybean oil exports are expected to exceed $1 billion. Brazil’s total soybean harvest is forecasted to reach an unprecedented 171.7 million metric tons in 2025.

This represents an increase of nearly 12% compared to the previous season, which was affected by adverse weather. Soybean grain exports are projected at a record-breaking 106.1 million tons.

Logistical challenges and price volatility persist. However, Brazil’s expanding role as a global supplier highlights its importance in meeting growing food and energy demands worldwide.

These figures underscore the country’s strategic position in the agricultural sector despite intense competition and shifting market dynamics.