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European soybean production is projected to fall by around 20% in 2026 due to heatwaves and drought, with the EU’s output expected to reach just 2.4 million tonnes. Major producers like Italy and Austria face significant declines, while Ukraine’s harvest is also set to shrink, tightening regional supply and increasing Europe’s dependence on imports. The EU’s soya self-sufficiency is forecast to drop from 8% to 6%, raising concerns about protein security. Despite the overall downturn, Poland and Germany are set to increase production, highlighting potential for growth amid challenging conditions.

CF Industries’ Q3 2026 results highlighted ongoing nitrogen constraints driven by conflicts and geopolitical tensions

Dutch biologicals firms are launching new agri-food innovations in markets like the US and Brazil before Europe due to slow EU regulatory approvals and limited scale-up financing, a report from Invest-NL warns. Companies such as VitalFluid and Vivici have commercialised abroad while awaiting lengthy European approval, with significant investment and expansion shifting outside the Netherlands. Invest-NL estimates the Dutch sector could generate €17bn more annually by 2040 if commercialisation accelerates, but without regulatory reform and better support, the country risks losing its global leadership in agri-food biotech.

Bayer’s Crop Science division reported a decline in crop protection sales during the third quarter due to adverse weather, El Niño effects, and regulatory restrictions, with Europe and Asia being hit hardest. Strong demand for seeds, especially soybeans in Latin America, partially offset these challenges and supported overall growth in seeds and traits. Despite ongoing pressures from generics and weak farmer economics, Bayer maintained progress on its turnaround plan, achieving year-to-date sales growth and improved EBITDA margins. The company remains focused on operational execution and expects Latin America to drive continued momentum as the year concludes.