Protein Partnerships
A programme for more sustainable soya in Europe for Europe
Soya is the world’s largest plant-based protein source and an essential part of food production. At the same time, Europe is highly dependent on imports: the EU imports around 35 to 40 million tonnes of soya every year but produces just 3 million tonnes itself. As a result, domestic production covers only around 8% of the EU’s needs. Across Europe, the self-sufficiency rate is somewhat higher at 25 to 30%. Nevertheless, large volumes still come from regions with sensitive ecosystems under threat from deforestation, such as the Cerrado savannah.
Donau Soja therefore supports the cultivation of non-GM and deforestation-free soya in Europe for Europe to reduce import dependence. Non-EU countries such as Ukraine offer particularly strong potential – both in terms of sustainability and volume.
Protein partnerships as a Book & Claim option in 2027
QS Soja plus in Germany, AMA pastus+/Soja plus in Austria, Ovocom in Belgium and GMP+ require certified deforestation- and conversion-free soya. This requirement will continue to apply beyond the entry into force of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on 30 December 2026. In addition to recognising Europe Soya as a production standard, they also accept the mass balance and Book & Claim supply chain models. Donau Soja Protein Partnerships are the recognised Book & Claim option.
Increase sustainable soy production in Europe for Europe
An alternative to credits from overseas
Fair conditions for farmers inside and outside the EU
Strengthen the first stage of the physical value chain
WHAT PROTEIN PARTNERSHIPS ACHIEVE
More sustainability
Our Europe Soya Standard guarantees deforestation- and conversion-free supply chains, regardless of regulatory changes or deadlines. This means that no forests or other natural areas are converted into additional agricultural land for soya production. It also requires reduced pesticide use. Only active substances approved in the EU may be used. Desiccants such as glyphosate and diquat are prohibited.
Long-term availability
Protein Partnerships help increase the cultivation of non-GM and responsibly produced soya in Europe. This expands the available supply and strengthens the long-term availability of European soya.
Less import dependence
More soya in European crop rotations reduces dependence on overseas imports and reduces pressure on valuable ecosystems in South America. The EU currently produces just 3 million tonnes of soya itself and is therefore only 8% self-sufficient.
European value creation
Protein Partnerships strengthen the European soya value chain – from production and collection to processing. They support regional integration and connect producers in south-eastern, central and eastern Europe with western markets (buyers).
Fair conditions
The greatest potential for increasing soya production lies outside the EU. It is important for farmers that the same requirements and conditions apply across all European soya-producing regions. Protein Partnerships help create fair and comparable conditions within and outside the EU.
THAT’S HOW IT WORKS
Knowledge transfer & farmer trainings
Donau Soja organises talks, field days and trainings with experts and practitioners to demonstrate the benefits of responsible soya cultivation to farmers and cooperatives and to facilitate the exchange of best practices.
Certification of farmers or cooperatives and storage facilities
As part of Protein Partnerships, the costs of quality measures, such as non-GM and pesticide testing, as well as certification under the Europe Soya standard, are covered for farmers and first collectors.
Activities to build value chains
Donau Soja supports certified partners in accessing markets and thereby helps build sustainable supply chains in Europe and for Europe. Conferences, networking events and trade fair stands provide opportunities to make these connections.
Join the programme
We invite you to join the programme – together, we can grow more sustainable soya in Europe and build a stronger European protein supply.
Get in touch
Susanne Fromwald
Director Strategic Partnerships, Donau Soja
+43 664 6126706
fromwald@donausoja.org
Discover our activities and partners
Donau Soja Academy: As part of the Protein Partnerships, our regional teams work with experts from different soya-growing regions. Together, they share valuable insights into sustainable, non-GM soya production in line with the Europe Soya standard
> Find out more
Ukraine: Get to know our certified partners in Ukraine for the 2025/26 season
> See the overview
Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Find out more about our activities in the local language
> Explore our activities
Brochure: From training and certification to regional value chains, the brochure shows how Protein Partnerships strengthen soya production. It is currently being updated and will be available again soon.