French farmers face soy supply risks amid deforestation concerns
- Snia has called for urgent clarification on the unclear conditions for importing deforestation-free soybeans.
- The European Regulation aims to ban imports of products linked to deforestation, including soybeans, starting in 2025.
- Failure to provide clear implementation details could lead to significant supply chain disruptions and financial losses.
The French animal feed industry association, Snia, has raised urgent concerns regarding the European Commission's delay in clarifying the import criteria for soybeans that are guaranteed not to contribute to deforestation. This regulation, set to take effect in 2025, aims to prohibit the importation of various products, including soybeans, that are linked to deforestation. However, the lack of clear implementation procedures poses a significant risk to the supply chain for French farmers. Snia's vice-president, Ludovic Michel, highlighted the potential for a supply chain disruption that could lead to disastrous financial consequences, estimating an additional cost of 2.2 billion euros across Europe. The association is calling for immediate action to ensure that the necessary details are published at least three months prior to the regulation's enforcement to avoid these risks. Without timely clarification, the feed manufacturers fear that they may struggle to secure a reliable supply of deforestation-free soybeans, which could have a ripple effect on the livestock industry in France and beyond.