Rising Soybean Prices and the Push for Sustainability in Global Markets

A report published by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) in February 2024, titled “Global Market Report: Soybean Prices and Sustainability,” delves into the complex landscape of the soybean industry. Soybeans, often called the “king of beans,” are pivotal in global agriculture due to their versatility and nutritional benefits. Originating in central China around 5,000 years ago, soybeans were initially cultivated for food and medicinal purposes. Today, soybean production is concentrated in the Americas, with the United States, Brazil, and Argentina accounting for 80% of global production. The soybean market, currently valued at USD 155 billion, is projected to reach USD 278 billion by 2031, driven by the increasing demand for animal feed and plant-based proteins.

Soybeans, often dubbed the “king of beans,” play a pivotal role in global agriculture due to their versatility and nutritional benefits. Originating in central China around 5,000 years ago, soybeans were initially cultivated for food and medicinal purposes. Today, soybean production has shifted dramatically to the Americas, with the United States, Brazil, and Argentina accounting for 80% of global production. The soybean market, currently valued at USD 155 billion, is projected to reach USD 278 billion by 2031, driven by increasing demand for both animal feed and plant-based proteins.

Market Dynamics

The growth of soybean production has been nothing short of remarkable. Since the 1950s, production has increased 15-fold, primarily due to the crop’s adaptability, affordability, and high protein (40%) and oil content (20%). Soybeans are easy to double crop in the same season, making them a preferred choice for farmers. Currently, 76% of soy production is used for animal feed, 20% for edible oils and human food products (such as tofu, soy milk, and tempeh), and 4% for industrial purposes, including biodiesel.

Consumer interest in both animal—and plant-based protein options further propels the demand for soybeans. This surge in demand has led to the expansion of soybean cultivation, often at the expense of vital ecosystems, particularly in Brazil’s Amazon and Cerrado regions.

Challenges and Sustainability

The rapid expansion of soybean cultivation has raised significant environmental concerns. The conversion of natural ecosystems into agricultural land has led to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. The Amazon and Cerrado biomes have been particularly affected in Brazil, compromising their role as crucial carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots.

The increase in genetically modified (GM) soybean varieties has facilitated large-scale farming, but it has also sparked debates about sustainability and environmental impact. GM soybeans, which are herbicide-resistant, allow farmers to more effectively control weeds without tilling the soil, thereby reducing soil erosion. However, the widespread use of GM crops has led to concerns about long-term soil health and the ecological impact of herbicide use.

Climate change poses another major challenge to the soybean sector. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and increased incidences of pests and diseases due to climate change threaten soybean yields. Computer models predict that most global soybean croplands will be more vulnerable to hotter and more humid weather between 2050 and 2100. This will likely lead to declining yields in many regions, although some areas, like parts of Asia, may experience improved growing conditions.

To address these challenges, efforts are underway to develop high-yielding, climate-resilient soybean varieties and to promote sustainable farming practices through voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs). These standards, such as the Round Table on Responsible Soy (RTRS) and ProTerra Foundation, promote practices that improve soil health, reduce deforestation, and ensure fair labor conditions.

Economic Impact

The soybean sector is a significant contributor to the global economy, providing employment to millions worldwide. In the United States alone, over 280,000 farmers are involved in soybean cultivation. Despite its economic importance, soybean farmers face considerable challenges, including price volatility, high production costs, and environmental risks.

The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have further disrupted soybean supply chains. These disruptions have led to increased production costs and price volatility, impacting farmers’ incomes. For example, soybean prices have climbed 90% since late 2020 due to market disruptions and rising demand. At the same time, production costs have soared due to higher prices for inputs like fertilizers and fuel.

Future Outlook

The push for sustainability in soybean production is gaining momentum. VSSs like RTRS and ProTerra Foundation promote environmentally friendly farming practices, such as reducing pesticide use, conserving soil, and preventing deforestation. These standards aim to create more resilient farming systems that can withstand environmental and economic shocks.

While VSS-compliant soybeans currently represent a small percentage of global production, their market share is expected to grow. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable products, particularly in markets like Europe and North America. For example, the European Union is expected to implement its Deforestation Regulation in December 2024, which will require imported soybeans to be deforestation-free.

Efforts to develop climate-resilient soybean varieties are also underway. Researchers are using cutting-edge biotechnology to create soybeans that can withstand heat and moisture stresses. For example, Argentine researchers have developed a soybean variety with a sunflower gene that increases drought resistance and nutritional value.

As the global soybean market continues to expand, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability will be crucial. Innovative farming practices, adherence to sustainability standards, and policy support can help mitigate the sector’s environmental impact while ensuring the livelihoods of soybean farmers. The journey towards a more sustainable soybean industry is complex but necessary for the future of global agriculture.

The soybean sector’s future lies in its ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions and consumer demands. By embracing sustainability and innovation, the industry can continue to thrive while protecting the planet’s vital ecosystems. This will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, policymakers, and consumers, to create a more resilient and sustainable food system.

The global soybean market is at a crossroads. With the right strategies and investments, it can achieve sustainable growth that benefits both people and the planet. The path forward involves addressing environmental challenges, supporting farmers, and meeting the growing demand for sustainable products. By doing so, the soybean sector can play a crucial role in building a more sustainable and equitable global food system.