SML lands in Brazil with a $10 million investment

With over 50 years of history and presence in more than 80 countries, the Indian multinational, SML Limited (formerly known as Sulphur Mills Limited), has announced its entry into the Brazilian market. SML is looking at making initial investments of around US$10 million to introduce more sustainable, advanced cutting-edge technological solutions for crops in Brazil.

Currently, SML generates approximately $250 million annual revenues globally through its product presence in all segments of crop nutrition, crop protection, and biologicals. The multinational's entry into Brazil will be the first step in an ambitious expansion strategy throughout Latin America. The projected revenue in Brazil alone by March 2024 is expected to reach $5 million.

Deepak Shah, Chairman, SML Ltd, fondly called as ″the Sulphur Man of India″, shared that he is confident that with this landmark milestone of SML’s entry in Brazil, the growers of Brazil will further experience more and more technologically advanced offerings in the future. ″We have always believed that the global challenges of Food security can be addressed through technological breakthroughs. Brazil being the one of the major agricultural economies of the world presents an immense potential for SML’s growth agenda″

The Managing Director of SML Group, Bimal Shah was thrilled with the beginning of B2C operations in Brazil and said that SML’s expertise in formulation development as well as the vast IP base not only presents an excellent opportunity and alternatives to mitigate the risk of dependence on China but also providing a vast range of innovative solutions to the growers in Brazil. Bimal Shah mentioned that a strong patented pipeline is lined up which we are in the process of commercialisation globally. ″Our commitment to sustainable practices promises to reshape the landscape of agriculture for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.″

According to Vitor Raposo, Country Head, SML Brazil, the initial focus will be in the Brazilian market, where operations are beginning, as it is not only the largest agricultural country, but also the most important in Latin America. "Our initial focus in Brazil is on intensive, irrigated crops and sugarcane. We are developing lines of nutrition, pesticides, and biologicals, bringing innovative solutions protected by patents that will contribute to modern and sustainable agriculture," he said. Furthermore, the executive mentioned that as business progresses in Brazil, the company would expand its operations to other South American countries, such as Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia. SML's growth projections in Latin America will be a mix of both organic and inorganic. To support this advancement, we are looking at acquisitions and hires over the next five years," he emphasized.

Dr. Nitin Sood, Vice President & Head International Business, emphasized the pivotal moment facing agriculture amid escalating climate change and impending water shortages. ″At SML, we view these challenges as drivers for our innovations in crop protection and crop nutrition segments. Our focus is on fostering soil health, biodiversity, water conservation, and regenerative agricultural practices. Furthermore, our engagement in carbon credit solutions aligns with our mission to not only grow crops but also cultivate a healthier, more sustainable future. We are excited with the launch of Brazil B2C operations, and the team is geared up to accomplish our mission.″ 

According to Komal Shah, Director IP & R&D, food is fundamental and the quality of the food we eat determines the quality of our health. ″Our product innovations powered by technology platforms ensure that the nutrient use efficiency is improved drastically and therefore improved uptake of nutrients by the plant, which further ensures the human beings get quality food biofortified with nutrients. We strongly believe that Brazil can play a key role in food biofortification through our advanced crop solutions.″ 

SML has 1,800 employees, more than six manufacturing units, over 250 products in the market, and has surpassed 500 patents. It has been consistently growing with a double-digit growth since last 3 decades and is aiming to further committed to an aggressive growth agenda with geographical expansion and innovative product introductions.

According to Raposo, SML aspires to be recognized as a provider of technological and sustainable solutions for modern and responsible agriculture alongside key players in the Brazilian market, including but not limited to distributors, cooperatives, consultants, and especially farmers. "In addition to this, we are bringing Indian technology to the thriving Brazilian agriculture, resulting in disruptive, quality solutions in harmony with nature".

(Editing by Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages)