Managing Director
Belgian Feed Association – BFA
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 that sustainability policies remain effective, practical, and economically realistic.
SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH COOPERATION
With global trade under pressure, local solutions are more important than ever. Belgium already has a strong foundation in circular feed production, with nearly half of all feed ingredients derived from co-products of the food, agricultural, and biofuel industries. Instead of letting valuable resources go to waste, these co-products are reintegrated into high-quality animal feed, reducing the need for virgin raw materials while lowering environmental impact.
BFA is fully committed to expanding circular feed practices even further. Increasing the use of co-products, alternative proteins, and innovative feed formulations will help reduce dependence on imports and build a more resilient food system. At the same time, circularity fits perfectly within broader European sustainability goals, supporting the transition to a low-impact agricultural sector. Beyond circularity, new protein sources may offer alternatives for sustainable feed. Alternative proteins, insects, single-cell proteins, and algae-based feed ingredients are slowly gaining traction as substitutes for traditional protein sources. However, for these innovations to become mainstream, regulations must encourage, rather than hinder, their adoption. BFA supports science-driven solutions that enhance feed efficiency, reduce emissions, and keep feed affordable for farmers.
The challenges facing the feed sector cannot be solved individually. At BFA, we strongly believe that cooperation is key. At national level, we work closely with sector stakeholders and government bodies to align sustainability efforts with the realities of feed production. Open dialogue between policymakers and sector representatives is essential for developing policies that are both effective and feasible.
At the European level, BFA actively contributes to discussions within FEFAC among others, making sure that Belgium’s feed sector has a strong voice in EU policymaking. As regulations evolve quickly, it is crucial that the needs and insights of feed producers are taken into account when shaping new laws. On a global scale, BFA continues to engage with international partners to share best practices and develop cooperative solutions. Sustainability is a worldwide challenge, and cross-border collaboration is necessary to create a responsible and resilient food system.
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT FUTURE
Sustainability in the feed sector must be both achievable and economically viable. Through its Sustainability Charter 2.0, BFA remains committed to low-impact feed production, responsible sourcing, and circular economy principles. But the road ahead must be carefully managed. Regulations must be feasible. Overregulation can slow down innovation and put too much pressure on businesses. Feed producers and farmers need a regulatory framework that supports progress and long-term security instead of creating extra obstacles.
Despite geopolitical tensions and challenges for free trade, it remains important to be proactive and explore new opportunities for sustainable trade, capitalising on the investments of compound feed manufacturers in innovative animal nutrition solutions to enhance the resilience and competitiveness of the Belgian agricultural sector. By promoting innovation, strengthening partnerships, and advocating for practical solutions, BFA is working toward a feed sector that is resilient, responsible, and ready for the future.
