RTRS Management Report 2024
Message from the Global Executive Director
Dear members and collaborators,
Each figure in this report tells a story: that of producers, companies, and communities demonstrating that sustainability is not a destination, but a path we are walking together.
2024 was a year in which we confirmed that global collaboration can generate real, measurable, and transformative changes in the production system. RTRS continues to make a difference: we are more than a standard; we are a network driving the transition toward a regenerative future.
Our 2024 results reflect the commitment of those who believe that responsible production is the only way to produce. This report not only shows what we accomplished in 2024 but also charts the path of what we can achieve if we continue to join forces and partnerships.
With appreciation,
Luiza Bruscato Global Executive Director Round Table on Responsible Soy Association (RTRS)
1. Global Round Table and Membership Round
Strengthening the membership base
New RTRS members
In 2024, we welcomed 15 new members to RTRS from 9 different countries (Denmark, Japan, Austria, Netherlands, Brazil, Sweden, Switzerland, India, Argentina) and ended the year with over 216 members.
8
1 Civil society organisations
4 Observing members Industry, Trade and Finance
2 Civil society organisations
RTRS members | Global community
Your seat at the table
New membership fee structure
In 2022, RTRS members approved a new membership fee structure to encourage producer associations, RTRS certified producers and local and international civil society organisations to join the round table.
We want to increase membership to enable more RTRS producers and key organisations to represent the sector and participate in the decision-making process of the agricultural global supply chain.
The new membership fee structure was introduced in January 2023, following approval by RTRS members through Written Resolution No 1- 2022, in accordance with article 39(4) of the RTRS Statutes.
Find the membership fees here.
Strategic review meeting 2024: shaping RTRS’s future
In July 2024, RTRS held a three-day strategic review meeting in Lucerne, Switzerland, bringing together representatives from more than 20 member organizations, including Producers, Industry, Trade and Finance, and Civil Society. The meeting focused on reviewing the implementation of the RTRS “Beyond 2020” Strategy (2021–2023), assessing achievements, ongoing initiatives, and identifying new strategic directions for the Association.
Facilitated by Target Teal, the sessions encouraged collaboration, multi-stakeholder dialogue, and innovation to address emerging sectoral, market, and regulatory challenges. Key topics discussed included sustainability beyond deforestation, adding value to certification, measuring the impact of RTRS certification, regenerative agriculture, environmental footprint, and strengthening global collaboration across the soy value chain.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to reflect on RTRS’s achievements: membership growth, certification volumes in soy, corn, and aquaculture, and expansion of Chain of Custody sites across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Outcomes from the strategic review will inform the next phase of RTRS’s work and be presented at the General Assembly in November 2024.
• See the final document
• Read more in the article: RTRS held its strategic review meeting to define the Association’s steps for the coming years – RTRS
Reinforcing networks
Throughout 2024, RTRS continued to engage with key stakeholders to promote responsible and regenerative agricultural practices.
Consolidating the role of the Round Table
Europe
Engagement with European Commission (EC)
– Multistakeholder Platform on Deforestation
As a member of the Multi-Stakeholder Platform on deforestation and forest degradation, RTRS was a speaker in the ‘Early adopters’ session. The Association presented the progress of the RTRS Chain of Custody Standard Reshaping.
Additionally, RTRS met with the International Relations officer at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment and with members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI).
RTRS also took part in outreach meetings with the Members of the European Parliament on the Green Claims Directive. These focused on introducing RTRS and learning about the scope of the Directive. RTRS also met members of the Directive in Brussels, Belgium, focussing on updates on its implementation.
Participation in multilateral platforms
– United Nations (UN) | Global Compact
As a key player in the soy sector, RTRS was part of the Working Group
– Sustainability and Communication Projects, Global Compact Brazil. The Association also participated in two working groups, one about regenerative agriculture and the other about traceability.
– Gender Responsive Standards – GRS (Initiative of
the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
UNECE)
As a signatory of the United Nations Declaration to promote gender equality, the Association was involved in various bi-monthly activities, working groups and proposals put forth by UNECE to refining approaches towards a gender-responsive standard development and implementation to contribute to a more sustained and inclusive
growth, necessary for reducing inequality.
– Working Group 4 (WG4) on Biodiversity and Communication | German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUV) and the German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN)
In the third year of RTRS participation, the WG4 working group is expanding its scope. In the future, it will be known as the ‘Biodiversity & Consumption’ working group. The WG4 will explore the role of sustainable consumption in mitigating the impact of human activities on biodiversity and ecosystem services, while actively promoting actions to protect and enhance them.
Expanding responsible soy traceability with GMP+ International
In March 2024, RTRS renewed its collaboration with GMP+ International to further promote responsible soy production, trade, and use. The agreement enables GMP+ certified companies to achieve equivalence with the RTRS Chain of Custody Standard, ensuring traceability of soy, a key ingredient in their products.
This collaboration allows companies to obtain multiple certifications through a single audit, reducing costs and increasing efficiency while providing a competitive advantage in the responsible soy market.
Roland van der Post, Managing Director of GMP+ International, highlighted the value of this partnership: “Collaborating with an organization recognized for its exemplary track record and reliability in the market has been invaluable. Our partnership with RTRS since 2013 underscores our shared commitment to promoting responsible soy practices.”
Luiza Bruscato, RTRS Global Executive Director, emphasized that certification equivalence is a significant step to promote responsible soy, providing companies with a new way to demonstrate their sustainability commitment.
The initiative has already been adopted by GMP+ certified companies in the Netherlands, including Otter Feed Components B.V., Arie Blok B.V., Gro-An Commissie en Handelsonderneming B.V., and Marvesa Oils & Fats BV.
Through this agreement, RTRS and GMP+ International strengthen global access to responsible soy, increasing its availability in international markets and fostering broader adoption of sustainable practices.
Read more:
RTRS renews collaboration with GMP+ International to boost the production and use of responsible soy – RTRS
Advancing compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation through RTRS Chain of Custody
On 3 September 2024, RTRS held a webinar presenting the revised RTRS Chain of Custody Standard (moving towards version 3.0) and the new Optional Model IV – Requirements for Alignment with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The event gathered over 230 participants from 160 organizations across 31 countries, with simultaneous translation into Portuguese and Spanish.
The webinar introduced the Optional Model IV, a supply chain solution designed to help companies comply with EUDR due diligence requirements while promoting the growth, trade, and use of RTRS responsible soy. Participants were informed that a public consultation would be open from 2 to 18 September to gather feedback, and the documents will be presented for approval at the RTRS General Assembly on 20 November 2024 in Ghent, Belgium.
Luiza Bruscato, RTRS Global Executive Director, highlighted the Association’s active involvement in the European Commission’s agenda since 2020, emphasizing the importance of aligning certification systems with evolving regulatory frameworks. RTRS Technical Unit Manager Ana Laura Andreani and Global Market Development Manager Laura Villegas underlined that the revised standard and the new model provide practical tools for companies to meet regulatory obligations while advancing sustainability goals.
This webinar reflects RTRS’s commitment to maintaining a robust, multi-stakeholder certification system that supports regulatory compliance and strengthens the responsible soy supply chain globally.
Read more:
RTRS presents advances in the Chain of Custody Standard with Requirements for Alignment with the EUDR – RTRS
Latam
Renewed collaboration with Aapresid to promote sustainable agriculture
In August 2024, RTRS and the Argentine No-Till Farmers Association (Aapresid) signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the XXXII Aapresid Congress “Everything is Connected.” This agreement builds on the partnership established in 2013 and aims to strengthen and expand sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices in Argentina.
The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation through aligning certification protocols, attracting certified companies, developing specific project agreements, and organizing seminars and awareness programs. Luiza Bruscato, RTRS Global Executive Director, highlighted that this collaboration reinforces the adoption of global sustainability standards and recognizes producers’ efforts in preserving environmental services on their farms.
Read more:
Aapresid and RTRS Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen and Expand Sustainable Agriculture Standards – RTRS
Brazil
Strengthening sustainable soy production in Brazil with ABIOVE
In November 2024, during the RTRS International Conference “Towards a Regenerative Transition” in Ghent, Belgium, RTRS and the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries (ABIOVE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote certification and share strategic knowledge in Brazil.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration to:
• Benchmark the RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production with ABIOVE’s AgroPlus program.
• Support AgroPlus producers in obtaining RTRS certification.
• Collaborate on seminars, workshops, and awareness activities.
Luiza Bruscato, RTRS Global Executive Director, emphasized the joint commitment to fostering sustainable soy supply chains in Brazil. Pedro Moré García, Sustainability Coordinator at ABIOVE, highlighted that the partnership will support producers in obtaining certification and enhance the AgroPlus program.
Additionally, RTRS participated in the ABIOVE Sustainability Committee meeting in October 2024, presenting the revised RTRS Chain of
Custody Standard (V3.0) aligned with EUDR requirements. ABIOVE representatives confirmed the feasibility of the new certification model and its readiness for implementation without significant additional costs.
This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening the economic, social, and environmental management of Brazilian soybean production while supporting producers in achieving and maintaining RTRS certification.
Read more:
RTRS and ABIOVE promote cooperation and certification in Brazil –RTRS
Network collaboration with GIZ
As part of the 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit – GIZ (German Society for International Cooperation) in Brazil and RTRS, a series of meetings (webinars and in-person conference) were organized, which focused on the region of MaToPi – Maranhão (MA), Tocantins (TO) and Piauí (PI). These were launched in 2022 to facilitate networking and cooperation between players in the soy chain, as well as to discuss future actions to promote the growth of sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
As part of this initiative we organised two meetings:
– In August ‘III Sustainable Soy Dialogues for the Itaqui Corredor’ Webinar held with GIZ and CLI – Corredor Logística e Infraestrutura to promote sustainability of the Itaqui – Maranhão Corridor in Brazil. There were 57 attendees from 30 organisations across industry, NGOs and the German food/retail market.
– November 29/30 ‘Sustainable Dialogues for the Itaqui Corridor’ meeting
The second edition of the in-person meeting took place in the city of São Luís, in the state of Maranhão, Brazil.
The event brought together the most relevant actors in the region’s value chain to explore the existing actions and initiatives that promote sustainable approaches and discuss the role of each. It also encouraged analysis of possible lines of action and joint working to develop a new common agenda.
Promoting sustainable soy in the Itaqui Corridor through financial instruments
On 3 July 2024, RTRS coordinated the fourth webinar “Sustainable Soy Dialogues for the Itaqui Corridor,” organized in partnership with the Logistics and Infrastructure Corridor (CLI) and the Brazil-Germany Cooperation for Sustainable Development through GIZ. The event focused on providing Brazilian soy producers in the MATOPI region (Maranhão, Tocantins, and Piauí) with information on financial instruments to support sustainable agricultural production.
Luiza Bruscato, RTRS Global Executive Director, emphasized that certification combined with financial support can significantly enhance innovation and sustainability impact at the territorial level.
The webinar featured presentations from the Responsible Commodities Facility (RCF) Programme, Sustainable Investment Management (SIM), Rabobank, and Traive Finance. These initiatives provide resources to producers demonstrating deforestation-free practices, supporting access to sustainable international markets and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This event is part of the Sustainable Soy Alliance for the Itaqui Corridor, a multi-actor initiative coordinated by RTRS, CLI, and GIZ. The Alliance aims to strengthen RTRS’s role as a multisectoral platform, promote certification, and foster sustainability across the MATOPI soy value chain.
RTRS International Conference
Our flagship event provided opportunities for members and non-members to collaborate, share ideas and discuss challenges facing our sector.
RTRS 2024 International Conference
Date: November 18 and 19
150 attendees
(87 RTRS members and 63 non-members)
18 countries
87 organisations
6 sessions/panels
25 Speakers
The Conference in Ghent, Brussels, was a chance for all the players in the soybean and corn value chain to get closer to the ground and get to know first-hand the valuable work of producers, while achieving a holistic perspective of the entire supply chain.
It was an opportunity to connect soybean demand and sourcing, learn about the latest solutions and innovations, and create collaborations with others in the value chain. Continued collaboration, learning and connections will enable the soy supply chain to comply with the requirements of the current demanding global agenda.
Reflections from the protagonists
RTRS International Conference 2024
The RTRS International Conference 2024 opened with remarks from Lieven Callewaert, President of RTRS, who highlighted the transformative potential of soy. “My vision is that one day, RTRS may no longer stand for the Round Table on Responsible Soy. Instead, it may represent the Round Table on Regenerative Soy, a global movement that redefines agriculture itself,” he stated. He urged the soy community to choose between business as usual or leading a global transformation, turning soy into a force for good that restores ecosystems, supports biodiversity, and mitigates climate change.
The first day continued with the keynote by sustainability strategist John Elkington, who challenged the sector to embrace regeneration through ambitious goals, scientific foundations, and collaboration. He emphasized soil health, youth engagement, and viewing sustainability as a growth opportunity. “Your sector can take the lead, and the timing is perfect. Regeneration requires patience, innovation, and collective effort to make a lasting impact on the planet,” he said.
Closing the conference, Luiza Bruscato, Global Executive Director, reflected on RTRS’s growth and collective impact: “The future of RTRS is in our hands, and with joint action and determination, we can continue creating the change the world needs. Sustainability in soy production is not just a priority; it is a global movement.”
Together, their messages conveyed a clear roadmap for the soy industry: regeneration is both an opportunity and a responsibility, and through collaboration, innovation, and persistence, the sector can lead a lasting, positive impact on the planet.
Access the RTRS 2024 International Conference report, which summarizes the most important topics
RTRS Field Trip 2024 to Ghent and Waregem in East Flanders, Belgium
Date: November 19
Visited places: Leievoeders, Euro-Silo, and Alco Bio Fuel (facilities in Ghent and Waregem)
11 participants
11 organisations
7 different countries
(Argentina, Belgium, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Greece, Brazil)
to farmers. About 20% of our production is destined for northern France, which is a key market for us.”
Insights from the Belgian feed sector
During the field trip, Katrien D’hooghe, Managing Director of Belgian Feed Association (BFA), provided an in-depth overview of Belgium’s feed sector. Representing 129 feed manufacturers responsible for producing 6.5 million tons of feed annually—96% of Belgium’s total feed production—the BFA plays a pivotal role in the industry.
“Belgium is the seven largest feed producing country in Europe,” said Katrien. “Europe imports between 30 and 35 million tons of soy and soy byproducts annually, primarily from Brazil and Argentina, with smaller volumes from US, Canada and India. Especially for young animals, such as poultry and piglets, soy as a protein source remains indispensable due to its high nutritional value, which is challenging to replace, ” she added.
Euro-Silo and Alco Bio Fuel: sustainability and traceability at scale
After the Annual International Conference, this optional field trip allowed people to learn more about the impact of RTRS certification and discover more about the sustainable supply chain, from the origin of soy and corn to their processing and distribution.
Some reflections from the companies we visited: Leievoeders: modern innovation meets sustainability
Located in Waregem, near Ghent, Leievoeders is a family-owned business that has grown from a small pig farming enterprise with 50 hectares into Belgium’s third-largest feed producer. Under the leadership of Rik Vandeputte, the second generation of the family, the company now delivers feed for pigs, poultry, and cattle across the region.
“Good raw materials at a fair price are the foundation of our production,” said Rik Vandeputte, president of Leievoeders and the president of the Belgian Feed Association (BFA). “Every day, we distribute our production using 40 to 60 trucks, ensuring timely delivery
Located at the Port of Ghent, Euro-Silo is a company founded in 1968, with the Vanden Avenne family as the majority shareholder (80%) and Cargill (20%). Euro-Silo specializes in bulk storage solutions and the handling of agricultural products. With 75 employees, the company operates two terminals, Sifferdok and Rodenhuize, with a total storage capacity of 650,000 tons and a turnover of 4.2 million tons annually.
Their product range includes soy derivatives, corn, wheat, rapeseed, peas, and linseed, among others. Euro-Silo’s silo systems cater to the storage of grains and other bulk materials, addressing logistical challenges related to transportation and supply chain efficiency.
Over the years, Euro-Silo has continuously adapted to evolving market demands, with a strong focus on sustainability and traceability. By adhering to strict European standards, the company has positioned itself as a trusted partner for environmentally conscious consumers and markets.
The tour of Euro-Silo was led by Karel Vandermeersch, Managing Director of Vanden Avenne Commodities NV and a member of the Board of Directors of Alco Bio Fuel NV, along with Johan Gereels, Quality Coordinator at Vanden Avenne Commodities and Thierry Cardon, commercial manager of Euro-Silo.
“We provide agribusinesses with a reliable and efficient gateway for importing, storing, and distributing agricultural commodities into Europe,” stated Karel. “With two terminals in Ghent, we offer our customers fast unloading of vessels, flexible storage, and multi-modal distribution facilities,” he added.
Read more:
Exploring sustainability and innovation: a field trip to european feed, grain and biofuel facilities – RTRS
Task Forces
Task Force Uruguay
April 10, at Cala di Volpe Hotel, Montevideo - 15 representatives - 09 organisations
Task Force Argentina
August 6, at IUDPT Auditorium, Buenos Aires city
- 65 representatives - 40 organisations
Task Forces Brazil
April 18, at Rabobank headquarters in São Paulo - 40 organisations - 51 representatives
September 11, at Bunge’s office in São Paulo
- 43 local representatives
- 30 RTRS member organizations and certificate holders.
October 23, virtual meeting
50 representatives from member organizations and RTRS-certified producers to discuss regenerative agriculture and reach a comprehensive understanding of this critical theme.
Task Force Uruguay: launch of the first national multistakeholder meeting
On April 10, 2024, RTRS held its first Task Force Uruguay meeting in Montevideo, bringing together producers, industry representatives, financial institutions, civil society organisations, and other soy value chain stakeholders. This new space for dialogue and collaboration aimed to promote sustainable supply chains in the country and provided updates on RTRS certification progress globally and locally.
A key focus of the meeting was the development of the Uruguayan National Interpretation of the RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production V.4.0, adapted to the country’s context and legislation. This multisectoral process concluded with the approval of the interpretation by the RTRS Board of Directors in October 2024, which officially came into effect on November 1, 2024. The new version reinforces producers’ access to RTRS certification and strengthens Uruguay’s commitment to sustainability.
Uruguay ranks as the 11th largest soybean producer and the 7th largest soybean exporter in the world. It is also the 4th largest producer of RTRS certified soybeans, with an average annual production of 43,675 tons and 24,775 hectares over the last four years. Additionally, one site* is certified under the RTRS Chain of Custody Standard.
The development of National Interpretations is part of the implementation of RTRS Production Standard V.4.0, launched in December 2021, allowing indicators to be adapted to the legal and production realities of each producing country. Uruguay now joins Argentina and Brazil, whose national interpretations were approved in 2022, and Paraguay, approved in 2023. The next review of the Uruguayan interpretation is scheduled for May 2026, with earlier revisions possible if required by the RTRS Executive Committee or ISEAL membership.
Find the new Uruguayan National Interpretation V4.0 here.
Task Force Argentina: strengthening responsible soy production
On August 6, 2024, RTRS held its Task Force Argentina meeting at the IUDPT Auditorium in Buenos Aires, gathering 65 participants from over 40 organisations, including producers, processors, traders, food companies, NGOs, and certification bodies. The session fostered dialogue, connection, and collaboration among key actors in Argentina’s sustainable soy value chain, while showcasing projects and initiatives linked to RTRS certification in production and chain of custody.
The agenda covered RTRS certification results, updates on ongoing projects such as the EUDR Mix module and regenerative agriculture, and insights into the European Union’s evolving regulatory framework, including the Green Claims Directive, CSRD, and CSDDD. Argentina’s commitment to sustainable production is reflected in its
Argentina’s commitment to sustainable production is reflected in its 2024 results: 800,472 tons certified under the RTRS standard, covering 261,760 hectares and involving 77 certified producers (65 individual/multisite + 12 group).
Participants shared concrete experiences, including Tecnocampo S.A.’s pioneering group certification project, Ferias del Norte’s reforestation initiative Arbolar, ACA’s promotion of responsible agricultural practices, and programs from Aapresid, Fundación Proyungas, CREA, Bayer, Rabobank, and others. These cases illustrated advances in certification, biodiversity conservation, financial innovation, and climate change mitigation.
The meeting concluded with recognition for the new Task Force Argentina coordinators — Molinos Agro and Tecnocampo — and for the collaboration between civil society, producers, and companies as a key driver for scaling sustainable agricultural production in the country.
RTRS Task Force Brazil 2024: financial innovation, strategic alignment, and regenerative practices
Task Force Brazil held its established meetings in 2024, providing a space for dialogue and collaboration among key actors in Brazil’s soy value chain.
On April 18, the RTRS Task Force Brazil met for the first time this year at Rabobank headquarters in São Paulo, bringing together more than 50 representatives from 40 organisations in the agricultural and financial sectors. The meeting served to review RTRS certified soy production volumes at the global and local levels, assess uptake trends in recent years, and present three new financial tools offering growth opportunities and incentives for RTRS certified producers.
These tools, introduced by AGCO Finance, Banco do Brasil and Rabobank, include preferential financing rates, credit solutions linked to preserved native vegetation areas, and sustainability-linked loans available exclusively to RTRS certified producers. The session also featured updates on ongoing initiatives, including the AgroBrasil+Sustentável Platform, and concluded with an announcement of a new format for future Task Force meetings, combining in-person and virtual exchanges.
On September 11, the second in-person meeting of the RTRS Task Force Brazil took place at Bunge’s office in São Paulo, gathering around 40 representatives from nearly 30 member organisations and certificate holders. The session focused on incorporating the perspectives and priorities of Brazilian stakeholders into the ongoing review of the RTRS Strategic Plan, following the strategic planning sessions held in June in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Facilitated by RTRS Global Executive Director Luiza Bruscato and consultant Tanya Stergiou (Target Teal), participants contributed ideas to refine the four strategic pillars and define the Brazil Action Plan for the coming year. Discussions emphasised opportunities to connect financial resources, innovations and expertise with RTRS objectives, ensuring alignment with both producer and market needs.
On October 23, the third meeting of the year of the Task Force Brazil took place online, coinciding with Brazil’s National No-Till Farming Day. The event brought together 50 representatives from member organisations and RTRS-certified producers to explore concepts, technical approaches, and opportunities related to regenerative agriculture.
and sustainability consultants Niki Van der Steenstraten and Joost Baker (NewForesight) shared perspectives on carbon farming, public policies, tropical agriculture, and the development of RTRS’s Regenerative Incentives System (RIS) project.
Participants engaged in interactive discussions to contribute ideas and recommendations that will help shape RTRS’s approach to promoting regenerative soybean production in Brazil.
Task Forces: strengthening dialogue through a new working methodology
RTRS has introduced a new format for its Task Forces to reinforce local dialogue spaces and the role of RTRS member organisations. Traditionally held once a year in person, Task Force meetings will now include one in-person gathering and at least two virtual meetings annually, enabling better communication, follow-up, and project implementation.
Participation is now exclusive to RTRS members and certified organisations (Production and Chain of Custody), with the option of inviting non-member companies. Each Task Force will have a specific action plan aligned with RTRS’s strategic plan.
The new model also incorporates a coordination structure, with three coordinators per country, representing Industry, Trade and Finance; Producers; and Civil Society, to ensure balanced representation and transparency.
In 2024, coordinators were appointed for Argentina and Brazil, with plans to extend the format to Paraguay, Uruguay, and Europe in 2025.
Argentina Task Force coordinators:
Federico Ucke, Molinos Agro S.A. (Industry, Trade and Finance)
María Francisca Llorens, Tecnocampo S.A. (Producers) Ulises Martínez, Fundación Vida Silvestre Argentina (Civil Society)
Brazil Task Force coordinators:
Bianca Almeida de Albuquerque, Bunge (Industry, Trade and Finance) Henrique Fiorsese, Fazenda Nossa Senhora Aparecida (Producers) Ariel Zorrilla, Preferred by Nature (Civil Society)
Read more:
Task Forces: an initiative strengthened with a new working methodology – RTRS
Task Forces
Experts including Prof. Dr. João Carlos de Moraes Sá (Rattan Lal Center and FEBRAPDP), Dr. Paula Packer (Embrapa Environment),
Evolution of RTRS global certified production
In 2024, a total of 2,145,339 hectares and 6,844,915 tons of RTRS-certified soy were recorded worldwidea.
Volumes increased more than sixfol d
Producers were certified against RTRS Production Standard
RTRS certified corn
In 2024, 92 RTRS soy producers certified their corn production under the RTRS Standard for Responsible Corn Production.
They represent a total of 773,697 hectares and 4,605,707 tons of certified corn. The second year of RTRS corn certification confirms the value of creating synergies and opportunities with producers. It also demonstrates that it is feasible to capitalise on the sustainability achievements of soy certification and continue the process of sustainable production by extending soy certification to a rotational crop.
They are 46 from Argentina; 43 from Brazil, 2 Uruguay and 1 from Paraguay.
2023.
Leading case: First mass balance supply chain in Chile
The Brazilian company CJ Selecta, one of the largest exporters of Soy Protein Concentrate (SPC), has been promoting sustainability since 2019 by involving its customers in the purchase of RTRS Credits, acquiring an average of 60,000 credits per year.
Additionally, in 2022, the company began working with RTRS-certified producers in Brazil, acting as Group Manager for nine producers covering 24,916 hectares and 95,623 tons of certified soy in Minas Gerais and Goiás.
Shortly after, CJ Selecta took a crucial step towards the traceability and sustainability of its production by certifying its processing plant in Araguari, Minas Gerais, under the RTRS Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard, transitioning from RTRS Credits to RTRS Mass Balance.
In 2023, CJ Selecta’s main partner in Chile, Kabsa S.A., an SPC manufacturer, certified five sites under the same standard, including two ports capable of storing, processing, and trading RTRS-certified soy. This development opened the doors to greater traceability in the SPC supply chain from Brazil to Chilean feed producers.
Thanks to this certification, Skretting Chile, one of the leading salmon feed producers, also certified three CoC RTRS sites in 2023, including storage and processing plants in the Los Lagos region. This ensures that the SPC used in feed meets RTRS sustainability standards, contributing to the supply of ASC or BAP-certified salmon farms in Chile and subsequently to retailers.
Evolution
of the uptake of RTRS-certified material
In 2024, uptake of RTRS-certified material increased by 12% compared to 2023. Of the total certified material adopted (7,440,222 tons), 904,508 tons were physical flow – Mass Balance and 6,535,714 tons RTRS Credits Supporting Responsible Soy.
Acquisition of certified materials by sector, during 2024
The top 20 organizations adopting RTRS-certified material worldwid
This year, 79 companies from 11 countries adopted RTRS certified material for the first time. They adopted 763,914 tons of RTRS-certified material in total (721,317 of RTRS Credits Supporting Responsible Soy and 42,597 tons of Mass Balance).
Round Table on Responsible Soy
4.
Achievements and oppotunuties
RTRS Standard awarded the maximum equivalence level against SAI Platform’s Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA), helping to increase industry sustainability.
The SAI Platform is a not-for-profit organisation and industry initiative that helps companies source sustainably grown agricultural raw materials and achieve sustainable production. With over 170 members from the food and beverage value chain, the SAI Platform is recognised globally for the FSA and its benchmarking programme.
The benchmarking process consists of a set of tools that can be used by each producer (regardless of property size) to evaluate and improve their agricultural practices. A global framework and a single reference system focused on sustainable agriculture makes independent assessment possible for every crop grown anywhere in the world.
Based on a review of the RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production version 4.0 (RTRS Production Standard), specialised consultants used benchmarking data from the FSA to conduct a thorough assessment. As a result, the RTRS Production Standard is now part of a select group of standards to bear the ‘Gold Level’ equivalent seal and the only one specifically geared towards soy production.
From now on, RTRS certified producers can also showcase their ‘Gold Level’ equivalent to all the industries that use the FSA as a reference.
Discover the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative Platform (SAI) Platform.
Independent study finds RTRS the most comprehensive standard for protecting against deforestation
A new study highlighted the efficacy of sustainability certification standards in combating deforestation on soy-producing farms in Brazil. The independent study, ‘Mapping zero deforestation certification and private programmes for soybeans farming in Brazil’, was funded by The Kingdom of The Netherlands and praised RTRS as the most comprehensive standard for protecting against deforestation.
Building on the Methodology for the Food and Agriculture Benchmark proposed by the World Benchmarking Alliance, the study ranks each certification and private programme with a score from 0 to 4 across four aspects: compliance with local legislation; strong stakeholder relationships; good agricultural practices; and effective deforestation control. By comparing these, the study concluded that RTRS is the most robust standard among those that were benchmarked.
RTRS was also praised as the most stringent for deforestation control among the audited programmes. This was thanks to RTRS’ strict eligibility criteria and transparency mechanism, where interested buyers can find information on farms’ and producers’ compliance.
In addition, RTRS stands out as the only voluntary certification programme where producers do not face any market restrictions to sell their crops.
Read the study – Mapping zero deforestation certification and private programmes for soybeans farming in Brazil.
Read more about the Methodology for the Food and Agriculture Benchmark.
RTRS recognised as a best-inclass soy voluntary standard system
RTRS’ holistic standard has once again been lauded as both complete and credible, adding value to the sustainability journey of the soy community through its robust and reliable assurance system.
The study, ‘Setting a new bar for deforestation and conversion-free soy in Europe’, was carried out by independent research organisation Profundo, at the request of WWF Germany and the Dutch committee of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It evaluated the top 21 soy Voluntary Standard Systems against 60 key sustainability criteria, including ecosystem protection, traceability, governance, social concerns and human rights.
The study identified RTRS as the highest-ranked VSS, coming out top in almost all categories, including deforestation and conversion, landscape and biodiversity, traceability, and governance. It was also noted that almost all standards have become more robust since 2019.
Read the report – Setting a new bar for deforestation and conversion free soy in Europe.
New enhanced and more functional version of the Online Platform
In April, an updated version of the Online Platform was launched with new functionalities and usability improvements. The upgrade provides RTRS with state-of-the-art technology to face the upcoming challenges and technological needs of an increasingly demanding international agenda in terms of information and traceability requirements.
The new version of Online Platform also has simple, but effective, design updates that enhance users’ browsing experience.
The new functionalities include:
• Renewed report setting and architecture to access relevant data.
• Increased functionality of reports, including the possibility of exporting data and historical records in downloadable Excel files.
• Easy visualisation of historical records of RTRS-certified material volume balances and transactions.
• Improved data security and platform performance.
Try out the new version of the Online Platform.
RTRS | 2024 communication results International Conference
• Collaborated with Market Development Unit on the value proposition to sponsors. RTRS secured 8 sponsors for the 2024 International Conference.
• 150 attendees from 18 countries, representing 87 organizations, including 85 RTRS members and 54 non-members.
• 6 sessions/panels with 25 expert speakers providing invaluable insights.
• Field trip organized in collaboration with BFA.
• 18 email communications about the conference.
• 1 special newsletter featuring 11 articles from the conference.
• 1 final report summarizing conference communications.
• Social media coverage (LinkedIn) before, during, and post-conference.
• Voxpop interviews with conference speakers, adding a visual and reflective dimension, as well as increasing engagement.
• 772 new followers gained throughout 2024, with November being the month with the highest growth due to interactions around the conference.
Media Coverage
• 66 notes produced throughout the year, highlighting RTRS’s activities, event participation, and sustainability discussions. Notes featured RTRS’s leadership in sustainable practices, partnerships, and flagship events like the International Conference RTRS, underscoring its global influence in responsible soy production.
• 20 articles and interviews granted to media outlets.
Event Participation Newsletters
• RTRS participated in 15 events.
• RTRS organized 10 events.
3 agreements and Signings:
• GMP+ in March
• Aapresid in August
• Abiove during the International Conference 2024 (November)
• Launched a monthly newsletter for the Association, summarizing key updates.
• 8 newsletters sent throughout 2024.
(2024):
Task Force in Uruguay
1st Task Force of the year in Brazil
4th Sustainable Soy Dialogue Webinar (Organized jointly with the Sustainable Soy Alliance, CLI, and GIZ)
Task Force in Argentina
Aapresid Congress + MoU signing
& Location
April 10, Uruguay
April 18, Brazil
July 3, Online
August 6, Argentina
August 8, Argentina
Informative Webinar on Chain of Custody Standard v3.0 August 28, Online
2nd Task Force in Brazil
3rd Task Force in Brazil
International Conference RTRS
3rd Sustainable Soy Dialogues for the Itaqui Corridor
(Organized jointly with the Sustainable Soy Alliance)
September 11, Brazil
October 23, Online
November 19-20, Belgium
3rd Agtech Summit
World Cocoa Foundation Partnership Meeting
CSI Expert Meeting on Soy and Agroecology
CSI Expert Webinar: "Soy and Carbon"
Brazil/China: Soy and Meat Exports Seminar
Agrobalsas 2024: Panel on Sustainable Agribusiness
GrainCom24
Amsterdam Declaration Partnership
ISEAL Global Sustainability Symposium
SPACE 2024
Climate Week NYC 2024
International Workshop on Biodiversity
ISEAL Member Week
December 3-4, Brazil
ISEAL Board and Member CEOs Retreat
ISEAL Webinar: Chain of Custody
January 24-25, Brazil
February 6-7, Netherlands
February 8, Online
March 28, Online
April 30, Brazil
May 14, Brazil
May 14-16, Switzerland
June 3, Netherlands
June 13, Switzerland
September 17-19, France
September 26, USA
October 8-9, Germany
October 14-18, Germany
October 29-30, UK
December 13, Online
LinkedIn performance
Total followers current: 5,202
New followers in 2024: 1,034
Biggest growth:
November 2024 (211 new followers, +108.9%)
Highest number of views:
November (504 views, +122%) – in the context of the International Conference
Total posts in 2024: 101 (monthly average: 8.4)
Highest activity: November (28 posts)
Activity and engagement peaks in November suggest that a more intensive content strategy during that month was effective.
Website performance
Steady growth:
Users increased from 6,050 (Jan) to 10,000 (Nov), peaking in September (9,342 users).
New users rising:
90% of visitors were new, indicating strong audience attraction.
Positive session trend:
Sessions grew from 9,506 (Jan) to 13,253 (Nov), showing increased returning traffic.
Traffic Acquisition
Organic search as the main source: 3,210 new users in November came from Google, highlighting SEO importance.
Low social media impact: Only 30 new users in November arrived via social platforms, showing limited traffic generation.
User Behavior
Most visited pages: Homepage, Certification section, and RTRS materials.
Geographic Insights
USA & Brazil lead in traffic: These two countries dominated throughout the year.
YouTube performance
Top video:
“Presentation: Revised RTRS CoC Standard (towards V3.0) & New Optional Model Alignment with the EUDR” Published: Aug 28 | 402 views
Key takeaways:
• September had the highest engagement (views, watch time, and new subscribers).
• December had high impressions but low ClickThrough Rate (CTR), suggesting room for better thumbnails/titles.
• Longer videos performed better in September and December.
• Subscriber losses in January & May may indicate less relevant content.
X performance
• Low engagement & growth:
• Minimal follower increase: 1,366 → 1,393 (+27)
• Engagement rate between 1.9% –6.5%, with few interactions
• Low activity: Only 6 tweets in September, even less in other months
Limited content impact:
• Max impressions: 571 (May), low compared to other platforms
• Almost no link clicks: Only 6 throughout the year
• Conclusion: Given the low impact, shifting focus to higher-performing platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube seems logical.
INDUSTRY, TRADE AND FINANCE
LIEVEN CALLEWAERT (President)
Alliance4Soy
Bélgica
TACIANO CUSTODIO (Tesorero)
Rabobank Brasil
Executive Board
Round Table on Responsible Soy
GERHARD ADAM
Bayer AG Germany
LUKAS VOGT
ACT Commodities (Vice-president)
The Netherlands
KOBUS PIENAAR
Woolworths Holdings Limited South
Africa
South Africa
PRODUCERS
GISELA REGINA INTROVINI (Vice-presidente)
FAPCEN
Brazil
ENRIQUE MOLAS
Productores de Soja Paraguay
Paraguay
JOHN QUAINE
Salentein Argentina B.V.
Argentina
YOGESH DWIVEDI
Madhya Bharat Consortium of Farmers Producer
Company Limited (MBCFPCL)
India
CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS
YAN SPERANZA
Fundación Moisés Bertoni (Vice-president)
Paraguay
PRAMEL GUPTA
Vrutti
India
THIAGO MASSON
The Nature Conservancy
Brazil
SECRETARIAT IN SWITZERLAND
EVERT RAYMAKERS
Europe Outreach and Engagement
Manager
GAETANO PIPINO
Finance Advisor
INGRID KORN
Administration Officer
IEDA RABELLO
Executive Assistant
SECRETARIAT IN ARGENTINA
LUIZA BRUSCATO
Executive Director
LAURA VILLEGAS
Global Market Development & Stakeholders
Affairs Manager
PABLO NICOLINI
Market Development & Data Specialist
ANA LAURA ANDREANI
Technical Unit Manager
JULIA ANDREA LUZURIAGA
Communication Coordinator
MARIANA AGUILAR
Communication Analyst Sr.
MARINA GARBARINI
Technical Unit Analyst
GABRIEL SALVATORE
Finance & Treasury Sepecialist