Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais — Sumitomo Corporation, one of Japan’s largest global trading and investment companies, has announced a major investment of R$140 million to establish a high-capacity soybean seed storage and processing facility in the strategic agricultural hub of Patos de Minas, located in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. This initiative is part of Sumitomo’s broader effort to strengthen its agribusiness footprint in Latin America and address growing global demands for sustainable, high-quality agricultural inputs.

The new facility will include state-of-the-art technology for both the storage and processing of soybean seeds. It is expected to significantly enhance the region’s agricultural infrastructure, providing local producers with improved access to certified seeds that meet high performance, traceability, and quality standards.

Approximately 40 new direct jobs will be created through the project, contributing to local employment and economic development. The facility will also enable Sumitomo to optimize logistics operations, ensuring faster delivery and support for soybean growers in Minas Gerais and neighboring states.

This investment comes at a time when the global agricultural sector is increasingly focused on sustainable production and input efficiency. By expanding its operations in Brazil—one of the world’s largest soybean producers—Sumitomo aims to meet the rising demand for improved seed technology, while also reducing dependency on international supply chains and bolstering Brazil’s domestic processing capabilities.

In addition to its economic and operational significance, the project is aligned with Brazil’s national strategy to modernize its agri-input supply systems. With Patos de Minas recognized as a high-potential zone for grain production, the location was chosen for its favorable climate, established transportation routes, and proximity to soybean farms.

Company representatives have emphasized that the new unit will be developed with an emphasis on sustainability and technical innovation. It will be designed to handle high volumes with minimal environmental impact, leveraging advanced sorting, grading, and packaging systems to ensure that the seeds meet export-grade quality benchmarks.

The Minas Gerais state government has welcomed the announcement, stating that Sumitomo’s investment reflects growing international confidence in Brazil’s agribusiness potential. The government also noted that projects like this encourage further industrial diversification in rural regions and strengthen Brazil’s leadership in the global food value chain.

Sumitomo’s long-term presence in Brazil spans several sectors, including mining, chemicals, infrastructure, and agriculture. This latest investment reinforces the company’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to Brazil’s sustainable development goals through innovation-driven partnerships and industrial modernization.

The facility is expected to become operational by early 2026, with phased construction starting soon. Once operational, it will play a critical role in increasing seed availability, supporting farmer productivity, and fostering greater regional competitiveness in global agricultural markets.

Source: Revista Cultivar