Bahia Strengthens Role in Biofuels with Higher Biodiesel Output and Growing Exports to Europe

by Vivek Waghmode (BioEnergy Times) Bahia is gaining a stronger position in the biofuels sector as it continues to increase biodiesel production, expand exports to Europe, and reinforce its role in the shift toward renewable energy. This progress is being driven by investments from Petrobras Biocombustível (PBio), upgrades at the Candeias Biodiesel Plant, and cooperation between the state government, industry, and workers, reports CPG.

The growth of biodiesel production in the state goes beyond industrial expansion. It reflects rising international competitiveness, job creation, technological progress, and compliance with some of the world’s strictest environmental standards. A meeting held on Monday (26) at the Bahia State Secretariat for Economic Development (SDE) showed that the sector’s development is part of a long-term plan to position Bahia as a center for renewable energy.

The increase in biodiesel output was the main topic of the meeting, which brought together representatives from Petrobras Biocombustível, the Unified Federation of Petroleum Workers (FUP), and the state government. Discussions focused on the recent performance of the Candeias plant and plans to expand exports to overseas markets.

Since 2023, PBio has invested in modernising the facility, introducing operational improvements and technical changes to meet international requirements. These measures have raised production capacity and enabled biodiesel from Bahia to enter tightly regulated markets such as Europe.

In 2025, the plant completed two shipments of advanced biodiesel to Europe through the Port of Aratu. The company is preparing new batches, with further exports expected in the first quarter of 2026, supporting the continuation of its export strategy.

Access to the European market is seen as a major milestone for Bahia’s renewable energy sector. Europe applies strict rules on sustainability, traceability, and emissions, making each shipment a sign of product quality and reliability.

State Secretary for Economic Development Angelo Almeida said that strengthening biodiesel production alongside export growth shows that Bahia is ready to compete internationally. He said the state is able to combine economic growth, job creation, industrial development, and environmental responsibility.

The presence in Europe is also raising standards for local industry, encouraging new investments, technical improvements, and closer links across the renewable energy supply chain in the state.

The biodiesel exported from Bahia is produced using technical corn oil, which helps broaden raw material sources and reduce environmental impact. The fuel achieved a reduction of more than 84% in greenhouse gas emissions compared with fossil diesel, in line with global goals to cut emissions.

The product also met the requirements of the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC), which is mandatory for entry into the European Union. This certification confirms that sustainability standards are met throughout the production and export process.

The expansion of biodiesel production is closely linked to stronger integration across Bahia’s supply chain. Raw materials are sourced from both the Salvador metropolitan area and western Bahia, creating a network that supports economic activity across multiple regions.

This integration is connected to other projects, including the start of operations at the corn ethanol plant in Luís Eduardo Magalhães. Together, these initiatives are expanding investment opportunities and strengthening Bahia’s role in Brazil’s energy supply.

The growth of biodiesel production is also generating jobs and supporting local development. The sector involves workers in industry, transport, agriculture, cooperatives, and services, creating both direct and indirect employment.

Export growth is increasing demand for skilled labour and encouraging sustainable and socially responsible practices. During the SDE meeting, participants also highlighted efforts to organise supply chains for animal fats and waste oils, including used cooking oil. These initiatives involve waste picker groups and cooperatives, linking environmental benefits with social inclusion.

PBio Biodiesel Director Flávio Tomiello said the increase in production in Bahia is the result of a structured effort focused on efficiency and access to new markets. He said exports to Europe are an important step, with further expansion expected this year, contributing to the state’s economy and strengthening the renewable energy sector.

Officials and industry representatives stressed that ongoing dialogue between government, companies, and workers is essential to ensure stability, clear planning, and long-term investment.

With rising biodiesel production and expanding exports to Europe, Bahia is reinforcing its position as a key player in renewable energy. The state’s experience shows that the energy transition can support economic growth while reducing emissions and creating jobs, placing Bahia among Brazil’s leading regions in the biofuels sector. READ MORE