EU increases sourcing of certified sustainable soy

The European Union continues to increase its sourcing of soy certified under sustainable production standards. According to the European Soy Monitor, the volume of certified soy sourced across the EU27+ reached 14.6 mln tons in 2024, continuing a multi-year growth trend.

At the same time, the share of soy compliant with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines declined from 54% in 2023 to 44% in 2024. The decrease was driven by growth in Europe’s overall soy footprint, while the absolute volume of certified soy remained high.

The EU remains heavily dependent on imported soy, most of which is used in feed production. Countries with national commitments to sustainable soy sourcing show the strongest results, including the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Denmark, as well as the United Kingdom and Switzerland.

Requirements for soy origin are becoming increasingly important as global production expands. Global soybean production increased to 397 mln tons in 2024, compared with 371 mln tons a year earlier, while the global planted area expanded by 4.4%.

The report expects sustainability and traceability requirements for soy in Europe to strengthen further as the market shifts from voluntary commitments toward regulatory compliance. For suppliers to the European market, demonstrating responsible soy production without deforestation or conversion of natural ecosystems will become increasingly important.

Tags: EU, soybean, increase