Brazil set for record soybean processing in 2026, Abiove says

Brazil is on track to reach a record level of domestic soybean processing in 2026, according to revised estimates from industry group Abiove (Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries), as strong crop output and rising demand for derivatives support the outlook.

The updated projection shows soybean crush volumes reaching 61.5 million tonnes in 2026, a 0.8% increase from the previous forecast.

The expansion highlights the domestic industry’s capacity to absorb larger volumes and generate higher value-added products.

As a result, output of derivatives is also expected to rise. Soybean meal production is projected at 47.4 million tonnes, while soybean oil output is estimated at 12.35 million tonnes, reinforcing Brazil’s role not only as a leading exporter of raw soybeans but also as a key supplier of inputs for food and energy.

Maturing soybean complex

According to Daniel Furlan Amaral, Abiove’s director of economics and regulatory affairs, the figures reflect the sector’s maturity. He said the upward revision indicates the industry is well positioned to convert a record crop into protein and bioenergy, strengthening both food and energy security.

In foreign trade, Brazil’s leadership remains intact. Soybean exports are projected at 111.5 million tonnes, maintaining the country’s position as the world’s top supplier.

In the derivatives segment, exports of soybean meal are expected to reach 24.6 million tonnes, while soybean oil shipments are forecast to grow 3.4%, totaling 1.5 million tonnes.

Recent data supports the positive outlook. In January 2026, soybean processing reached 3.689 million tonnes, an 8.9% increase year-on-year, according to adjusted figures.

The following chart provides a detailed breakdown of Brazilian soybean meal exports (HS codes 2304.00.00, 2304.00.10, and 2304.00.90), according to Datamar market intelligence:

Soybean Meal Exports | Jan 2023 – Jan 2026 | WTMT

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

Adapted from a report by Fernanda Pressinott, CNN Brasil

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