Bunge and GDM to develop new oilseed crops for biofuel production

Global agribusiness company Bunge Global SA and plant genetics and breeding company GDM have announced the establishment of a joint venture, Enerseed, to develop new oilseed crops for biofuel production. The partnership aims to accelerate the breeding, introduction and commercialization of next-generation non-traditional oilseed crops that could serve as alternative feedstocks for the renewable fuels sector.

The joint venture will combine GDM’s expertise in plant genetics, breeding, biotechnology and gene editing with Bunge’s global infrastructure, processing capabilities and access to international markets. The companies plan to establish an integrated value chain, from developing new varieties and cultivation technologies to processing oilseed feedstocks and supplying biofuel producers worldwide.

The first seed development projects are expected to launch in selected markets, with the potential for further international expansion. Enerseed will focus on building a portfolio of promising non-traditional oilseed crops capable of providing feedstocks with a lower carbon footprint. According to the companies, potential agronomic benefits include improved soil health, reduced erosion, nitrogen fixation by certain crops and lower water requirements.

For farmers, the new crops could create additional opportunities to diversify production and generate income from land during periods when it would normally remain fallow. Growing low-carbon feedstocks could also provide access to new markets and premium pricing opportunities. Bunge emphasizes that its partnership with GDM is part of its strategy to decarbonize global supply chains and develop alternative feedstock sources for the food, feed and fuel industries.

Enerseed will operate under an open licensing model that provides qualified partners with access to advanced genetic innovations, cultivation technologies and potential applications for the new crops. The venture plans to collaborate with seed companies, universities, research institutions and agricultural technology developers. This approach is intended to accelerate the scaling up of new oilseed crop production and support the development of a global market for low-carbon biofuel feedstocks.

Tags: Bunge, oilseeds, biofuel, GDM