IBRAFE - Instituto Brasileiro do Feijão e Pulses: Strengthening Brazil’s Pulse Industry
The Instituto Brasileiro do Feijão e Pulses (IBRAFE) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the production, processing, and international trade of beans, pulses, and special crops from Brazil. Based in Curitiba, Brazil, IBRAFE plays a crucial role in connecting farmers, exporters, and global buyers, ensuring the growth and sustainability of Brazil’s pulse sector.
Company Overview
As the official Brazilian bean and pulse association, IBRAFE represents the interests of producers, processors, traders, and exporters in the agricultural value chain. The organization is committed to enhancing Brazil’s position as a top exporter of pulses and specialty crops through innovation, market intelligence, and sustainable farming practices.
Market Presence and Key Statistics
- Brazil is among the top 5 global producers of pulses, with over 3.5 million metric tons of beans produced annually.
- Exports to more than 60 countries, including India, China, Egypt, Pakistan, the USA, and European markets.
- Over 200 member organizations consisting of farmers, exporters, and agribusinesses.
- Annual pulse export value surpasses $1 billion, contributing significantly to Brazil’s agribusiness sector.
- Brazil accounts for 80% of Carioca bean production worldwide, a staple in Latin American and African markets.
Core Business Operations
IBRAFE is dedicated to supporting, promoting, and expanding Brazil’s bean and pulse industry through a variety of initiatives:
-
Market Development & Trade Promotion
- Facilitating international trade partnerships and export opportunities.
- Organizing trade fairs, business missions, and networking events.
- Promoting Brazilian pulses through digital platforms and market intelligence reports.
-
Research & Innovation
- Partnering with universities and research institutes to improve crop yields and quality.
- Investing in sustainable agricultural practices for environmentally friendly production.
- Supporting the development of high-protein and functional food applications.
-
Advocacy & Policy Support
- Representing Brazilian bean and pulse producers in government and trade negotiations.
- Working with global regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with export standards.
- Supporting policies for sustainable farming and food security.
Product Portfolio
IBRAFE promotes a wide variety of beans, pulses, and special crops, catering to both domestic and international markets.
Beans
- Carioca Beans – Brazil’s most consumed bean, making up 80% of domestic consumption.
- Black Beans – High in demand across Latin America and African countries.
- Mung Beans – Popular in Asian cuisine.
- Adzuki Beans – Used in traditional Japanese and Chinese dishes.
- Brown Eye Beans – High-protein beans used in global cuisines.
Pulses
- Lentils – Exported to India, Turkey, and the Middle East.
- Peas – A staple crop for European and Asian markets.
- Chickpeas – Growing demand in vegan and plant-based food markets.
Special Crops
- Sesame Seeds – Used in oil extraction and food applications.
- Chia Seeds – A global superfood with high omega-3 content.
- Popcorn – Brazil’s growing export product in the snack industry.
Competitive Edge and Industry Leadership
- Brazil’s Agricultural Strength: Favorable climate, advanced farming techniques, and vast arable land support large-scale production.
- Export-Ready Infrastructure: High-capacity storage, advanced processing facilities, and efficient port logistics facilitate seamless global trade.
- Quality & Sustainability Standards: Brazilian pulses adhere to strict international certifications, ensuring high nutritional value and minimal pesticide use.
- Innovative Farming Practices: Focus on organic and regenerative agriculture to enhance soil fertility and biodiversity.
Financial Performance and Growth
- Annual pulse exports valued at over $1 billion, with a 10% year-over-year growth rate.
- Increasing demand for plant-based protein sources, driving global market expansion.
- Expected increase in exports to China and Middle Eastern markets, responding to growing demand for healthy foods.
Certifications and Compliance
- GlobalG.A.P. Certified – Ensuring sustainable farming practices.
- HACCP and ISO 22000 – Compliance with food safety and processing standards.
- FDA Approved – Enabling exports to North American markets.
- BRC Global Standards Certification – For European trade compliance.
International Shipments and Expansion
- Over 500,000 metric tons of beans and pulses exported annually.
- Key export destinations: India, China, the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Investments in cold storage and advanced processing facilities to improve export quality and shelf life.
- Expansion into alternative protein markets, including bean-based protein powders and plant-based food innovations.
Customer Testimonials
- “IBRAFE’s market intelligence reports have been instrumental in expanding our pulse exports to new markets.” – Exporter, Brazil.
- “Brazilian Carioca beans have the best quality worldwide. Reliable supply and excellent customer service.” – Distributor, Egypt.
- “The sustainability initiatives led by IBRAFE are crucial for the future of pulse farming.” – Agribusiness Consultant, USA.
Major Achievements and Recognitions
- Ranked among the top global pulse export organizations.
- Organizer of Brazil’s largest bean and pulse trade events, attracting international buyers.
- Key contributor to the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture’s trade expansion efforts.
- Recognized for excellence in sustainable farming and export promotion.
Future Roadmap
- Strengthening Brazil’s position in the plant-based protein sector.
- Increasing pulse production efficiency through technology-driven farming.
- Enhancing trade relationships with high-growth markets like Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Developing new functional food applications using Brazilian beans and pulses.
IBRAFE continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Brazil’s bean and pulse industry, driving innovation, sustainability, and global trade expansion.
