The European Soy Monitor (ESM) 2024 has been published, offering a detailed picture of responsible soya sourcing across the EU27+.
The headline figure is encouraging: 14.6 million tonnes of soya meeting the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines (SSG) were sourced across the EU27+ in 2024 – one of the highest volumes recorded since the monitor began. This reflects sustained commitment from companies, feed sectors, standards bodies, and multi-stakeholder initiatives across Europe.
But the report also sets out a clear challenge. EU27+ soybean meal consumption rose to its highest level since 2019, driven by strong feed demand. Overall soya demand grew faster than sustainable sourcing, which pushed the share of FEFAC SSG-compliant soya from 54% in 2023 down to 44% in 2024. Progress in absolute volumes is real – but it must keep pace with a growing market.
The findings reinforce something Donau Soja has long championed: collective action works. Countries with national commitments, coordinated sector approaches, and shared ambition consistently outperform those without. Donau Soja’s work across Europe – supporting responsible, non-GM soya production and traceable supply chains – is part of this broader effort.
The report also speaks to the evolving policy landscape. As EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) implementation progresses, the role of voluntary standards and certification systems remains vital. Regulation and responsible sourcing practice are not in competition – they reinforce each other.
The European Soy Monitor is commissioned by Donau Soja alongside FEFAC, FEDIOL, IUCN NL, ProTerra Foundation, and the Round Table on Responsible Soy Association (RTRS).
Read the full European Soy Monitor 2024 here:
Download