KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 6
Four companies from Nepal and Sri Lanka have signed licensing agreements to use U.S. Soy sustainability labels on their product packaging, marking a growing regional shift toward responsible sourcing practices.
Nepal's Mahalaxmi Solvent & Refinery and Global Agro Products Pvt Ltd, along with Sri Lanka's Ceylon Grain Elevators PLC and Nelna Farms, were recognized at the U.S. Soybean Export Council's annual CrushCON event for adopting the "Sustainable U.S. Soy" and "Fed with Sustainable U.S. Soy" labels.
"Adopting the 'Sustainable U.S. Soy' label strengthens our position in the domestic market by aligning us with buyers who now prioritize transparent and responsibly sourced ingredients," added Ankita Gupta, CEO of Mahalaxmi Solvent and Refinery Pvt Ltd. "As global standards continue to shift toward verified sustainability, this decision also positions us well for potential future opportunities in larger international markets."
To qualify for the label, companies must commit to using at least 90% SSAP-verified U.S. soybeans, or 60% U.S. soy for animal feed supported by sustainability certificates.
South Asia has seen rapid adoption of sustainability labels, with 20 licenses signed in under three years - 16 in Sri Lanka and 4 in Nepal. Globally, 147 companies in 21 countries are using U.S. Soy sustainability labels.
"Developing markets like South Asia are embracing sustainability and we are excited to support this growth," added Kevin Roepke, USSEC Director. "Customers want to know the source of their food, and U.S. Soy's verified sustainability labels provide them the assurance that they need."
U.S. soybean farmers, recognized for having one of the lowest carbon footprints globally, emphasized long-term stewardship. "We are borrowing our land from the next generation," said Janna Fritz, USSEC Chair and Michigan farmer.
The initiative aligns with rising global investment in sustainability, with Deloitte reporting that 85% of global executives are increasing sustainability spending, up from 75% last year.