Soyabean production estimates in Brazil have been reduced by 11.3M tonnes due to droughts in the south of the country, local consultancy Agrural was quoted as saying in an AgriCensus report.

The rate of deforestation in the Amazon has more than doubled in a decade, Olive Oil Times wrote, reaching its highest level in 15 years.

Construction engineering company Thyssenkrupp Uhde Thailand has been awarded a contract for an esterification plant by a leading oleochemical and speciality chemical producer in Asia, the company announced on 12 January.

Food technology company Benson Hill has announced the acquisition of ZFS Creston, an established food grade white flake and soya flour manufacturing operation in Creston, Iowa.

Futures and options exchange Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad (BMD) has formed a partnership with the Malaysian Palm Oil Certification Council (MPOCC) to develop and promote sustainability-related initiatives in the palm oil sector.

The Philippine biodiesel association (TPBA) is calling for an increase in the country’s coco-biodiesel blend from 2% to 5% to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the Manila Times wrote.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) recycling company Bee'ah Tandeef is planning to launch the country’s first community used cooking oil (UCO) recycling programme, Gulf Today wrote.

The Chinese leadership is planning to approve the safety of more genetically modified (GMO) corn varieties produced by domestic companies, Reuters reported the country’s agriculture ministry as saying.

Leading oleochemical producer Peter Greven has switched three further product lines Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Mass Balance certified fatty acid.

Grain and transportation company CGB Enterprises (CGB) has announced a joint venture with soyabean processing co-operative Minnesota Soybean Processors (MnSP) to build a soyabean processing plant in North Dakota.

The Round Table on Responsible Soy (RTRS) has announced the launch of a new corn standard and a new version of its soya standard.

Renewable fuel company Global Clean Energy Holdings (GCE) has announced its acquisition of Spanish camelina and seed producer Camelina Company España (CCE).

The Chinese leadership is planning to increase soyabean production in a bid to secure domestic grain supply, according to a South China Morning Post (SCMP) report.