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Rua Riachuelo, 366 Centro
Rio de janeiro - Brazil
9:00AM to 7:00 PM
Moday To Friday
+55 21 976 723 023
The global soybean market is a multi-billion-dollar industry that drives the food supply chain, powers livestock production, and supports global economies. Yet, mastering the art of importing soybeans is far more than just closing deals—it’s about understanding the complexities of international pricing, seizing the right market opportunities, and leveraging seasonality to secure the best contracts. In this article, you’ll uncover everything you need to know to not only enter this lucrative market but to thrive in it, avoiding common pitfalls and optimizing your purchasing strategy. If you’re looking to maximize profitability and minimize risks, this is your essential guide.
Contents
Soybean prices in international trade are determined by two main modalities: FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).
FOB (Free on Board): Represents the value of the soybeans delivered onboard the ship at the port of origin. All transportation and insurance costs are borne by the buyer. This model is ideal for importers with logistical capabilities and experience in maritime freight.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Includes the cost of the product, insurance, and transportation to the destination port. For importers who prefer simplified logistical management, the CIF model transfers part of the risks to the seller, ensuring more security in the process
Below is a summary of the average soybean prices (FOB) per metric ton (USD/MT) over the last 10 years:
| Year | Average Price (USD/MT) |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 347.36 |
| 2016 | 362.71 |
| 2017 | 358.82 |
| 2018 | 342.53 |
| 2019 | 327.00 |
| 2020 | 349.88 |
| 2021 | 505.10 |
| 2022 | 569.69 |
| 2023 | 520.48 |
| 2024 | 405.21 |
Peak in 2022: The FOB price of soybeans reached its highest value in 10 years, driven by geopolitical tensions and high global demand.
Drop in 2024: With an oversupply in Brazil and reduced demand from China, prices fell significantly, creating opportunities for strategic importers.
For importers, monitoring soybean price fluctuations is crucial for negotiating contracts with security and profitability. Prices determine the final cost of the operation and directly influence profit margins. In long-term contracts, it is common to use adjustment clauses based on global indices, such as prices from the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), to mitigate fluctuation risks.
SOYBEAN PRICE CALCULATOR – Click Here!
Brazil, the largest soybean exporter in the world, has a well-defined production cycle:
Planting Season: Between September and November.
Harvest Season: Between February and May.
The most competitive prices are usually found between February and May, during the harvest period, when there is a large supply of the grain. Importers who close deals during this time can negotiate better conditions in terms of price and volume.
To import soybeans competitively, it is crucial to understand price formation, be aware of production seasonality, and closely monitor global market variations. With well-defined strategies and in-depth knowledge, it is possible to secure advantageous contracts, minimize financial risks, and seize unique market opportunities.
Would you like to learn more about the global soybean market and how to optimize your import operations? I am available to help you expand your business with security and profitability.
Mello Commodity publishes educational articles that aim to guide importers of agricultural commodities on: Brazilian crops, market information, prices, scams, etc.
Some articles may contain affiliate links that provide access to several SUPPLIER GUIDES for Brazilian agricultural commodities. The commission paid to the Mello Commodity team is used to cover production costs and will not impact the cost of acquiring the material.
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Brazilian, graduated in Marketing, Specialist in Service Management and Strategic Communication.
Important International Negotiator in the commercialization of Brazilian agricultural commodities such as: Sugar, Soybeans and Corn.
Owner of Mello Commdity, she has gained great prominence on the internet in recent years by promoting educational articles for importers of Brazilian agricultural commodities.
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