Brazil loses $1.76 billion annually to soybean seed piracy

A new study conducted by CropLife Brasil and agribusiness consultant Celeres Consultoria discovered that soybean seed theft costs Brazil a whopping 10 billion reais (roughly $1.76 billion) per year.

The situation has an influence not just on the country’s agricultural economy, but it also underscores the larger challenges that enterprises in the seed, chemical, and biotechnology sectors face.

As Brazil maintains its position as the world’s leading soybean producer and exporter, the illegal market for counterfeit seeds poses considerable challenges.

The scope of seed piracy

According to the research, pirated soybean plant seeds currently take up around 11% of the land area with a soybean canopy in Brazil.

Brazil’s national crop agency, Conab, reported on the total area planted for soybeans at 46.15 million hectares (114.039 million acres) in the 2023/24 planting season alone.

Between 2024 and 2025, the area of soybeans is estimated to be larger, growing to 47.45 million hectares, says the study.

However, the widespread use of pirated seeds in Brazil puts their agricultural sector at risk, as well as the credibility of this economic activity on a global scale.

Producers who depend on these frequently low-quality seeds face reduced quantities and lower-quality produce. Since Brazil competes with the US and Argentina for a top place in world soybean markets, the impact of this piracy is direct and far-reaching.

The financial fallout

Seed piracy has huge financial consequences. The study estimates that this illegal trade could generate a loss of around 1 billion ($176.15 million) reais in potential tax revenue over the next decade.

The report also suggests that, by fighting seed piracy, investments would be directed to improve seed varieties, and the resources for the purpose could reach 900 million ($158.99) reais in a decade.

The sales tax loss is not just about agriculture but also about something that uses public funds, which could be used for essential services and infrastructure.

Seed piracy does not merely undermine an entire industry; it indirectly stunts economic growth at the national level.

The findings serve as a wake-up signal to agricultural stakeholders. CropLife Brasil, which represents a group of seed businesses, biotechnology corporations, and pesticide and bioinput manufacturers, highlights the critical need for joint measures to address the situation.

The availability of pirated seeds directly threatens innovation and the development of new technologies in agriculture, which may otherwise increase productivity and sustainability.

Agriculture is critical to Brazil’s economy and employment. The Brazilian agribusiness sector is one of the country’s greatest employers, and seed piracy might jeopardize the livelihoods of many workers if left uncontrolled.

By reducing illegal trade, Brazil might improve its status in international markets and secure jobs in the sector.

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