Producing raw materials in the best possible place
Agrifirm believes that raw materials should be produced in the most efficient place possible from a geological and climatological point of view. Raw materials originate from an international network of product streams, such as cereals from Europe, Ukraine, Belarus and Australia, and protein-rich raw materials from South America, North America and Asia.
Global markets have emerged for various reasons, such as differences in harvest times, expensive raw material storage and climatic differences.
Agrifirm is heavily involved in further sustaining this international raw material production. It is committed, for example, to the development of sustainable soy and the research into alternatives (Green Deal Dutch Soy). In addition, ‘Agrifirm’s Sustainable Procurement Policy’ fits into this strategy.
Demand for regional raw materials growing
Market demand for regional raw materials is growing and needs professional support. Agrifirm is familiar with the discussions and is regularly asked to participate, or to think about the impact for chains. Unfortunately, the question often narrows down to whether European soy is available. European soy is becoming increasingly available. Agrifirm has addressed this within the Netherlands with its Green Deal Dutch Soy, and fortunately this is being emulated in the Netherlands.
The challenge does not lie in the availability of soy! What is more important is the fact that European soy is more expensive than world market soy. Consequently, other protein sources are becoming more popular, such as palm kernel flakes which is being more rapidly used in dairy cattle feeds. And the discussion shifts to the next raw material.
That is why the demand for regional raw materials needs proper guidance, because improper implementation leads to uncontrollable processes, the unavailability of raw materials and unwanted and unnecessary cost price increases.
Agrifirm wants to generate measureable, relevant and sustainable value for the farmer and the farm. Agrifirm wants to contribute to the development of new chains with the code ‘Animal feed of European origin’. Other parties may develop other requirement packages. Agrifirm is prepared to assist in the thinking process from the strategy that working with a cohesive package of requirements is the best method.
