Aquaculture leaders issue warning to Brazilian soy sector

A number of major aquaculture companies have issued a warning to the Brazilian soy sector, following new data which show that the rate of deforestation in the Amazon basin is increasing.

The soy sector believes that it can increase productivity six-fold on existing agricultural land

The companies – including Aquascot, BioMar, Bremnes Seashore, Cermaq, Grieg Seafood, Lerøy Seafood Group, Mowi, Nordlaks Oppdrett, Nova Sea and Scottish Sea Farms – have signed an open letter questioning whether the Amazon Soy Moratorium (ASM), which was established in 2006 to ensure that soy production in the Amazon region only occurs on existing agricultural land, is proving effective.

“Brazilian Government data recently published shows that, since 2012, it [deforestation] has increased from 460,000 hectares to almost 1 million in the last year. These deeply concerning figures reinforce the importance of continuing to uphold the ASM. Yet some parties are now questioning whether it should continue.”

As a result, they have issued a warning to the Brazilian soy sector.

“Our position is clear: we want to be able to continue to source from, or invest in, the Brazilian soy industry but if the ASM is not maintained, this will risk our business with Brazilian soy.”