Brazil's soy industry gives deforestation a green light
Deutsche Welle
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Brazil's soy industry is signaling a potential shift in its stance on deforestation, raising concerns among environmentalists about the future of the Amazon rainforest. For over a decade, major Brazilian soy producers, including global giants like Cofco International, Bunge, Amaggi, and JBS, had adhered to a moratorium that prohibited the cultivation of soy on land cleared of forests in the Amazon. However, several industry players have now announced their withdrawal from this agreement, effectively ending a practice that has been instrumental in protecting one of the world's most vital ecosystems.
The moratorium, established in 2006 and strengthened in 2009, was a result of pressure from environmental groups and international buyers. It successfully reduced deforestation rates in monitored areas by approximately 70% during its peak effectiveness. However, overall soy cultivation in the Amazon has still expanded significantly, tripling since 2008 to over 7.28 million hectares. The withdrawal from this agreement, as announced by ABIOVE (Brazil's largest industry association), could lead to a surge in deforestation by up to 30% by 2045, according to a study by the Brazilian Amazon Environmental Research Institute (IPAM). While ABIOVE claims it will continue to comply with Brazil's Forest Code, environmentalists fear this move could open the door to further destruction of the rainforest.
The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," plays a critical role in regulating global temperatures by acting as a carbon sink. Its preservation is vital for maintaining biodiversity and combating climate change. The soy industry's decision to end the moratorium comes amid Brazil's rise as a global soy superpower, with a 40% market share,
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/19/2026