Viterra to Erect “World’s Largest” Integrated Canola Crush Plant

Canadian grain company Viterra is moving forward on plans to construct the world’s largest integrated canola crush facility, according to an announcement Monday. Once operational, the site will feature a capacity of 2.5 million mt/yr.

“Viterra is a large global player in the oilseed crushing industry, with quality assets throughout our agriculture network,” David Mattiske, the firm’s chief executive officer, said in a release. “Over the years we have made a number of strategic investments in Canada and we are excited at the potential opportunity to further enhance our processing business. We look forward to leveraging our expertise at this new state of the art facility, and connecting our customers to additional opportunities within our supply chain.”

The company said it expects oilseed crush demand will continue to grow in the years to come as use of canola oil in human foods and canola meal in animal feed increases. Viterra’s plant in Regina will also supply feedstock for the production of renewable fuel.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to pursue this substantial and historic investment in our asset network, which demonstrates our confidence in the future of Western Canadian canola production,” said Viterra North America CEO Kyle Jeworski in a statement. “Through this project, we will be able to further leverage our strong relationships with farm customers and support Saskatchewan’s growth plan for expanded value-added processing capacity.”

If the project receives internal and external approval, Viterra intends to start operations at the new facility in late 2024.

American agribusiness Cargill recently revealed plans for a new $350 million canola processing plant in Regina, SK and said it will also update and modernize two other canola plants in the province.