6 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE March 2025 The feed sector is at a turning point. Global developments are reshaping the way we produce animal nutrition, bringing both challenges and opportunities. The war in Ukraine has disrupted grain markets, exposing Europe’s reliance on external suppliers, while trade restrictions in major economies like China and the US are altering global supply chains. Meanwhile, we face the implementation of ambitious EU sustainability regulations, increasing the administrative burden on businesses. Closer to home, Belgian feed producers and farmers are navigating their own set of challenges. The Flemish nitrogen crisis has resulted in strict environmental policies that require significant adaptation, while rising production costs and fluctuating commodity prices add further uncertainty. In this changing environment, sustainability must go beyond environmental goals: it must also secure economic resilience and food security. As the voice of the Belgian feed sector, BFA plays a central role in this transition. Representing over 96% of the Belgian compound feed market, our members supply livestock farms across the country. Belgium is home to a highly efficient and export-oriented livestock sector, and the feed sector is a key enabler of its success. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, feed safety and regulatory compliance, BFA strives for the Belgian feed sector to remain competitive while embracing the challenges of the future. BALANCING RESPONSIBLE SUPPLY CHAINS WITH REGULATORY COMPLEXITY One of the biggest challenges facing the feed sector today is securing stable and responsible supply chains in a time of growing trade restrictions and regulatory demands. For example, BFA and its members are fully committed to deforestation-free supply chains, but the complexity of compliance is raising serious concerns. Belgium has consistently ranked among the top European countries for purchasing certified sustainable soy. Through sector-wide initiatives, Belgian feed producers have proactively committed to high sustainability standards, reducing environmental impact while supporting responsible farming abroad. However, the introduction of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) adds new layers of complexity that could disrupt well-established sustainability efforts. While the regulation’s goal - preventing deforestation - is essential, its practical implementation remains unclear. Key details, like traceability requirements and enforcement procedures, are still vague, making it difficult for businesses to fully prepare. Without careful planning, these new rules could unintentionally weaken sustainability efforts. Supply chains could shift away from certified sustainable sources, not because of environmental concerns, but simply due to practical difficulties. Feed availability could decrease, while costs go up – putting extra pressure on farmers and producers. That’s why BFA is actively working with suppliers, policymakers, and international partners to ensure Navigating sustainability in a changing world: BFA’S COMMITMENT TO RESILIENT AND RESPONSIBLE FEED Katrien D’hooghe Managing Director Belgian Feed Association - BFA LEAD ARTICLE
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