Ukraine is set to have a potential record soybean harvest this year.
According to analysts from the Danube Soy Association, soybean acreage in Ukraine is expected to reach 2.3-2.5 million hectares in 2025 (compared to 2.6 million hectares in 2024). However, a higher total yield (+2% from last year) is anticipated, the association's press service reports.
Experts noted that EU countries are likely to reduce soybean planting areas by about 5% in 2025, though they remain historically high after last year's record.
"The soybean industry in the EU will continue to demonstrate strong adherence to principles of consistency and regional origin," said the Executive Director of the Danube Soy Association, Vladimir Pugachev.
The association emphasizes that domestic soybean producers and processors must consider the following factors affecting the industry this season:
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Increased interest in non-GM soybeans grown in accordance with EU standards.
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Rising demand from the food industry for plant-based substitutes for animal proteins.
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Administrative requirements for implementing the EU 2023/1115 regulation on deforestation, such as traceability and proof of legality for areas cleared after 2020.
"Limiting factors for soybean production in European countries this year may include a lack of productive spring moisture and the availability of high-quality seeds due to drought conditions in many countries last year," the association concluded.