Global soybean processing to exceed 100 mln tons for the first time

The global soybean processing forecast for 2025/26 has been raised by 2 million tonnes to 100.26 million tonnes, exceeding the previous season’s record (96.46 million tonnes). Current soybean processing volumes are driving up estimates for the US, South America, and Asia. The main driver is increased demand for both oil and meal, according to analysts at Oil World (Germany).

Soybean processing in the US increased to 6.30 million tonnes in March (up 8% from February, at 5.83 million tonnes, and up 11% from March 2025, at 5.63 million tonnes). Soybean meal supplies from the US increased sharply both domestically and for export. Meal consumption increased by 1.4 million tonnes, or 8% year-on-year, in the period October-March 2025/26.

Overall, soybean processing volumes in the country have increased by almost 9% since the beginning of the 2025/26 marketing year, reaching an estimated 42.6 million tonnes, compared to 39.16 million tonnes in September-March of the 2024/25 marketing year.

Soybean processing has also increased in South American countries. In March, soybean processing volumes in Brazil reached 5.50 million tonnes, 4.6% higher than last year’s March figures (5.26 million tonnes) and 29.4% higher than February’s figures (4.25 million tonnes).

Argentina experienced a less productive month in March compared to last year, with processing volumes reaching 2.90 million tonnes, 10.2% lower than March 2025’s 3.23 million tonnes, although significantly higher (45.7%) than February’s 1.99 million tonnes.

Overall, the current situation indicates a steady increase in global demand for soybean products, which supports high production and processing volumes even in the face of changes in international trade.

Tags: soybean