Pioneer breaks ground for new Brazilian soybean production plant

Pioneer Hi-Bred recently broke ground on the new soybean production plant in Catalão, Brazil. The new facility will help Pioneer meet growing soybean seed demand in the country, which represents more than USD $500 million in opportunity.

"This plant investment underscores Pioneers commitment to being a reliable and high quality soybean seed supplier for Brazilian farmers," said Roberto Rissi, Brazil country executive director.  "Weve seen tremendous growth in our soybean business with record volumes the past three years, growing market share, and strong product performance and yield advantages."

Investments in the new facility will total USD $50 million, and Pioneer expects the plant to be fully operational in February 2012. The Catalão Production Plant is expected to employ 60 full-time positions. In addition, approximately 500 temporary employees will be hired when the plant is at full capacity.

Pioneer entered the soybean market in Brazil in 1999 through the acquisition of a Brazilian company.  In just over ten years, Pioneer has grown to become one of the largest branded soybean businesses in the country. Earlier this year, the business invested $5.5 million in the expansion of its Planaltina soybean production plant, making it the largest facility of its kind in the world. This investment doubled capacity and allows for the conditioning of close to four million 50-pound bags and the ability to store almost 5 million 50-pound bags (note: a 50-pound bag is equal to 22.6 kilograms).