Cargill acquires full control of Barreiras Soy Processing Plant in Brazil
The move is part of Cargill’s broader investment strategy in Brazil, where it has invested R$8.1 billion (US$1.5 billion) over the past five years
BRAZIL – Cargill has taken full ownership of its soybean crushing, refining, and bottling facility in Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil, after operating it under a lease since 1998.
The move, announced on June 17, marks a strategic expansion in Brazil, the world’s top soybean producer and exporter.
The Barreiras plant employs 250 people and produces a wide range of soy-based products including bulk and bagged soybean meal, pelletized soybean hulls, degummed oil, and refined oil sold under the Liza brand. Though financial details were not disclosed, the acquisition marks a strategic move in western Bahia, a key soybean-producing region.
“This acquisition is aligned with our growth strategy and enhances our operations in the region.It enables continued investment to meet the needs of our domestic customers and support the global soybean meal supply chain,” said Paulo Sousa, president of Cargill in Brazil and head of the agricultural business in Latin America.
The move is part of Cargill’s broader investment strategy in Brazil, where it has invested R$8.1 billion (US$1.5 billion) over the past five years. The company operates 29 factories, 75 grain warehouses, seven port terminals, two innovation centers, and multiple distribution and corporate offices.
In May, Cargill won a 35-year lease at the strategically vital Paranaguá port terminal with a US$72.4 million bid, aimed at improving export logistics. Earlier, in February, Cargill announced the full acquisition of SJC Bioenergia, now rebranded as Cargill Bioenergia, extending its reach into sugar, ethanol, corn oil, DDGs, and renewable energy production in central Brazil.
The company also anticipates record soybean and second-season corn volumes in 2025, with projections to surpass the 51 million tonnes of grains handled in 2023. Cargill has indicated it will continue investing in infrastructure to manage this growth, including expanded port access and processing facilities.
Additionally, Cargill recently resumed soybean exports to China following the lifting of temporary suspensions related to phytosanitary concerns. The reinstatement of Cargill Agricola S.A. by Chinese customs in April is expected to support continuity in one of its most important export markets.
The strategic positioning of the Barreiras plant in western Bahia is especially significant, as the region is a key soybean-producing area. With full control of the facility, Cargill is expected to enhance supply chain efficiencies from farm to export and increase its competitiveness in both local and international oilseed markets.
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