Togo begins local processing of Soybeans to reduce imports, boosts economy

Togo is taking a major leap in its agricultural and industrial sectors by processing its soybeans locally, aiming to reduce the need for imported oil and other derivative products.

This strategic move not only promises to enhance the country’s self-sufficiency but also signifies a new era of economic growth.

Togo’s prominence in the global soybean market is impressive. In 2019 and 2020, the West African nation ranked 13th worldwide and second in Africa for soybean production.

According to a report by the EU Commission, Togo emerged as the largest exporter of organic soybeans to Europe, sending 51,000 tons of the crop to the Schengen Area. This marked a substantial increase from 2019, where the export volume was 42,300 tons—showing a remarkable 20% growth.

In 2020, Togo’s export performance outshined several major producers, including Ukraine (28,000 tons), India (15,000 tons), and Kazakhstan (11,000 tons). Among African peers, Uganda (8,000 tons), Benin (6,000 tons), and Burkina Faso (5,000 tons) also made notable contributions but fell short of Togo’s impressive figures.

This soybean success story is bolstered by the operational prowess of Arise IIP, which has invested $25 million in a state-of-the-art processing plant. Even before its official launch, the factory has already produced 50,000 tons of oil, underscoring the capacity and potential of Togo’s agribusiness sector.