European Soymeal Prices Surge Sharply, EUDR Effects and CBOT Strengthening Pressure Feed Market

Soybean meal (soymeal) prices in the European market have surged sharply in recent weeks. Market players say this surge is triggered by the emergence of premiums related to the European Union's deforestation regulation (EUDR) as well as strengthening futures prices on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT).

Based on broker data, offers in the Netherlands for November-December shipment rose from EUR303 per ton to EUR330–345 per ton FOB Amsterdam/Rotterdam, or an increase of 9% to 14% compared to the previous week.

“Offer prices surged sharply in recent days so the market became relatively quiet,” said a Dutch trader, quoted by InfoSAWIT from Platss, Saturday (1/11/2025). “With US-China trade talks still ongoing, CBOT prices continue to strengthen and push premiums up.”

As a result, the overall price indication rose about 15%, indicating significant pressure in the vegetable protein market.

Italy Records Premium Increase Up to US$90 per Ton

A similar increase also occurred in Italy. Soymeal prices for November-December delivery increased to EUR345 per ton, up from EUR315 per ton the previous week. This increase reflects a premium of about US$90 per ton against CBOT prices, compared to US$60 per ton the previous week.

“However, no buyers have dared to contract long-term yet. Market activity is still spot and selective,” said one market player in Italy.

Supply Concerns Due to EUDR Regulation

This price surge also raises concerns among the feed industry. The European Feed Manufacturers' Federation (FEFAC) in its official statement to the European Agriculture Council on October 28, 2025, warned of potential disruptions to the soybean supply chain due to the European Commission's proposed “limited simplification” of the deforestation regulation (EUDR).

According to FEFAC's analysis, soymeal costs could rise 5–10% due to the emergence of EUDR risk premiums for limited first-quarter 2026 supply volumes. This price increase also risks spreading to other protein sources such as rapeseed meal and sunflower meal.

Price Increases Observed Consistently

The energy and commodities research firm Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, recorded soybean meal FOB Netherlands prices at EUR307 per ton on October 28, up EUR6 per ton from the previous week.

With the market still awaiting clarity on EUDR policies and the direction of global trade negotiations, feed industry players estimate that volatility in vegetable protein prices will continue at least until the end of the year. (T2)