Brazil’s biodiesel industry is stepping up efforts to persuade the government to adopt a simplified testing process that could speed up an increase in biodiesel blending with diesel, a move seen as key to reducing costs and strengthening energy security, CPG reported.
Currently, Brazil follows a mandatory blend of 15% biodiesel (B15). Existing rules allow this to rise to 16%, but only after a series of tests are completed. Industry representatives say the current process is too slow and may delay action during supply disruptions.
The push comes at a time of global fuel uncertainty, with the sector warning that delays in decision-making could leave the country exposed to international supply shocks.
The industry group AliançaBiodiesel, which includes Abiove and Aprobio, is leading the demand. It has proposed limiting the approval process to laboratory tests, removing the need for immediate field trials involving vehicles and equipment.
At present, the approval system involves two stages—initial lab testing followed by longer on-road trials with participation from the automotive industry. The sector says this makes it difficult to increase the blend quickly, noting that laboratory tests alone can take up to 14 months.
Industry players argue that a simplified process would allow quicker decisions and help the country respond faster to crises. They also point to possible economic and environmental benefits, including lower fuel costs, increased investment, and stronger growth in the biofuel sector.
Energy security remains a major concern. Brazil still depends on imports to meet about 25% to 30% of its diesel demand, leaving it vulnerable to global market fluctuations. In times of geopolitical tension, particularly in regions like the Middle East, supply disruptions could impact domestic availability.
The biodiesel industry says raising the blend level would reduce reliance on imports and provide a more stable and secure fuel supply, urging the government to act swiftly on the proposal.
