Seed Day highlights the role of soybeans in agribusiness

Seed Day, celebrated on August 21st, goes beyond a symbolic date in the agribusiness calendar. It highlights the importance of soybean seeds as the starting point of each harvest and as a driver of productivity, quality, and sustainability in Brazilian agriculture. This input is the focus of technology, research, and innovation that drive Brazilian agriculture.

For the Brazilian Association of Soybean Seed Producers (Abrass), the seed represents not only the vitality of soybeans but also a highly professionalized sector, the result of decades of regulatory and technological evolution. This transformation was decisive in establishing Brazil as one of the largest global producers of the oilseed.

Market perspectives and challenges

The soybean seed market generated R$33,6 billion in 2022/23, with approximately 55,3 million 40-kg bags sold, according to Blink Consultoria. This represents a 6,2% increase compared to the previous season.

Despite the sector's strength, piracy remains a major challenge. Estimates from Céleres Consultoria indicate that approximately 28% of the market still uses uncertified seeds, generating potential losses of up to R$9 billion per year, in addition to compromising crop health and productivity.

Even with this scenario, the outlook is positive. Brazil is expected to reach 48,3 million hectares of soybean in 2025/26, increasing demand for certified seeds to 48,3 million bags and reaching 49,2 million in 2026/27. An optimistic projection suggests this number could reach 51,2 million bags, driven by area renewal, the adoption of new technologies, and the quality demands of the consumer market.

Trends and opportunities

Among the growth trends, industrial seed treatment (IST) stands out: the market is expected to exceed R$1,76 billion in 2025/26, compared to R$1,19 billion in 2021. Personalized recipes, practicality and guaranteed health have attracted more and more producers.

The sector also relies on advances in biotechnology and genetic improvement, as well as increasing digitalization with traceability, inventory management, and production planning tools. Alternative financing models, such as purchasing pools and cooperative partnerships, are emerging as alternatives to more expensive credit.

Strengthening certification

For Abrass, strengthening certification is essential to ensure quality and competitiveness. This involves not only stronger public policies against piracy but also investments in innovation, research, and bioinputs.

"The challenge is to ensure that Brazilian producers have access to high-quality seeds, capable of boosting the productivity and competitiveness of our agribusiness," said the organization's president, André Schwening (pictured).