One of Argentina's leading producers has certified more than 3,500 hectares of soybeans and maize with a prestigious international standard.
The certification recognises the company’s commitment to complying with laws and good business practices, among other things.
Article published in AgriFy News: https://news.agrofy.com.ar/noticia/210657/uno-principales-productores-argentina-certifico-mas-3500-hectareas-soja-y-maiz
Cresud announced new RTRS (Round Table on Responsible Soy Association) certifications for soybean and maize production during the 2023/24 season at its El Tigre (La Pampa) and La Gramilla (Agroriego, San Luis) establishments in Argentina.
At “El Tigre”, 2,256 hectares of maize production were certified, adding to the 3,896 hectares of soybeans that were already certified during the previous season. At La Gramilla, we certified 1,260 hectares of soybean production. In both cases, the certification is valid for five years and requires mandatory annual audits.
The RTRS certification, renowned in the agricultural sector and highly valued by the international market, recognises the company’s commitment to complying with laws and good business practices, providing good working conditions, respecting and engaging with local communities, caring for the environment, and producing under appropriate agricultural practices.
“We continue to advance our ESG strategy, applying the best agricultural practices through the responsible use of natural resources and technology, with the mission of producing quality food for a growing global population, with social responsibility, committed diverse teams, and high standards of corporate governance,” highlights the official communication.
RTRS Certification Worldwide
RTRS certification experienced growth, reaching 7.5 million tonnes of soybeans in 2023: “The numbers reflect significant growth and a strong commitment to sustainable soybean production,” highlighted the platform.
Global production of RTRS-certified soybeans saw notable growth in the past year. In 2023, a total of 7.5 million tonnes of RTRS-certified soybeans were produced, representing a 6.4% increase compared to 2022, while the area covered reached 2.2 million hectares, reflecting a 10.5% increase compared to 2022. These figures underscore the growing importance of sustainable production in the global oilseeds sector.
In Latin America, Brazil topped the list of countries with the largest RTRS-certified soybean production, reaching approximately 6.4 million tonnes. Meanwhile, in Asia, India stood out with 580,000 tonnes of RTRS-certified soybeans on 270,000 hectares: “It is important to highlight the focus in this country, where group certification drives sustainable production by small soybean producers. Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay followed, jointly contributing 540,000 tonnes of RTRS-certified soybeans on 300,000 hectares,” the report notes.
Regarding the evolution of RTRS Chain of Custody certification during 2023, 416 sites were certified across 16 countries that received, processed, and traded RTRS physical soybeans, representing a 12% increase compared to the previous year. These include 245 storage plants, 90 processing plants, 55 ports, 54 transshipment terminals, and 40 commercial offices, with the participation of 59 companies. Brazil is the country with the largest number of certified sites, with 14, followed by Argentina with 11.
Additionally, in 2023, 11,480 new producers were certified, of which 49 are in Brazil, 12 in Argentina, 3 in Uruguay, and 11,416 in India. In Brazil, 43 producers are included in four new groups, while in India, the 11,416 producers are included in one new group.
“Obtaining the RTRS seal reflects the commitment of various organisations to promote sustainability and transparency in the soybean value chain. In this regard, RTRS focuses on promoting the increase in production, trade, and use of soybeans that are economically viable and ensure zero deforestation and zero conversion,” they conclude.
