KATHMANDU: Two Nepali agribusinesses — Mahalaxmi Solvent & Refinery and Global Agro Products — have joined an expanding roster of South Asian companies adopting U.S. Soy sustainability labels, a move that aligns with global trends in ethical sourcing and sustainable supply chains.

The companies were recognized at CrushCON 2025, hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), alongside Sri Lanka’s Ceylon Grain Elevators PLC and Nelna Farms.

The sustainability labels — “Sustainable U.S. Soy” and “Fed with Sustainable U.S. Soy” — are increasingly used by brands seeking to build consumer trust and demonstrate transparency. Companies must meet strict criteria, including using 90% SSAP-verified U.S. soybeans, or 60% U.S. soy for animal feed.

Nepal and Sri Lanka have been among the fastest adopters, with 20 licenses signed in under three years. Globally, the labels are now used by 147 companies across 21 nations.

Umesh Chandra Sapkota, Director at Global Agro Products, reacted that this recognition inspired his company to work more towards sustainability.

"Adopting the 'Sustainable U.S. Soy' label strengthens our position in the domestic market by aligning us with buyers who now prioritize transparent and responsibly sourced ingredients," said Ankita Gupta, CEO of Mahalaxmi Solvent and Refinery Pvt Ltd. 

USSEC Director Kevin Roepke said the demand for sustainability is reshaping markets: “Customers want to know where their food comes from. Verified sustainability helps them make informed choices.”

USSEC Chair and U.S. soybean farmer Janna Fritz highlighted the long-term commitment of American farmers to environmental stewardship, noting their efforts to reduce carbon impact and protect farmland for future generations.

For Nepal — where tourism, agriculture and sustainability increasingly intersect — the shift reflects growing consumer awareness and aligns with broader efforts to promote environmentally responsible practices across key industries.