ADM opens new soybean processing facility in Paraguay

US-based agri-processing company Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) has opened a new soybean processing facility in the city of Villeta, Paraguay, creating 160 direct jobs.

The new facility, which has been constructed adjacent to the existing ADM fertiliser-blending facility, has a daily processing capacity of 3,500t.

The plant expands ADM’s South American oilseed crush capacity by more than 20%.

ADM noted that the complex facilitates efficient crop-origination and export capabilities as it is located near a port facility on the Paraguay River.

The new project is part of the company’s plan to expand its presence in the world’s key growing regions.

ADM executive vice president and chief operating officer Juan Luciano said that the strategic location of the complex in Villeta enables the full integration of the company’s logistics.

"Our barges arrive here with inputs for the production of fertilizers and leave loaded with our soy products."

"Trucks arrive with soy sourced from different regions of the country, and return to the field with fertilizers designed to meet the many and varied demands of productive, modern farmers," Luciano added.

ADM stated that the facility features several elements designed to improve sustainability, including an integrated water treatment system, and biomass-fuelled electric power generation.

The company has worked with government agencies and educational institutions, including the Engineering University of Asunción (UNA) and SINAFOCAL, to create and help operate a three-month programme to help train local men and women to fill jobs at the facility.

ADM converts oilseeds, corn, wheat and cocoa into products for food, animal feed, industrial and energy uses.

With more than 30,000 employees, the company operates 265 processing plants, 460 crop procurement facilities, and a crop transportation network.