China resumes Brazilian soy imports from 5 suspended firms

China, the world’s largest soybean buyer, has resumed imports of Brazilian soybeans from five companies previously suspended due to phytosanitary concerns, according to a source familiar with the matter and Chinese customs data. Brazil, the leading global producer and exporter of soybeans, remains China’s top supplier, particularly as the trade war prompts Beijing to diversify its sources away from the United States.

The resumption of shipments began on April 25, weeks ahead of a planned state visit to China by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. This move aligns with China’s efforts to build a global coalition against the U.S. trade war. Earlier, in January, China had suspended imports from Terra Roxa Comercio de Cereais, Olam Brasil, C.Vale Cooperativa Agroindustrial, Cargill Agricola S.A., and ADM do Brasil, which are linked to major global agribusiness firms.

Brazil stated it would address the issue with Beijing, and last month, its Ministry of Agriculture provided Chinese officials with information about the suspended companies. According to a Chinese customs database, all five companies currently hold a “normal” registration status. However, the database does not specify the resumption date, and their prior status could not be verified.

China, which purchases over 60% of globally traded soybeans, sources more than 70% of its imports from Brazil, further eroding the U.S. market share. In 2024, China imported a record 105.03 million metric tons of soybeans, with over 74 million tons coming from Brazil. A bumper harvest in Brazil is expected to drive China’s soybean imports to a new high in the second quarter.

Representatives from Archer-Daniels-Midland Co, Cargill Inc, Terra Roxa Comercio de Cereais, and other involved firms, as well as China’s GACC and the Brazilian Embassy, did not respond to requests for comment. The resumption of shipments strengthens trade ties between China and Brazil, a critical development amid global economic challenges.

Tags: China, soybean, USA