Abra and Sumitomo partner to unlock industry solutions to airline decarbonisation in Brazil

Abra Group and Sumitomo Corporation do Brasil have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accelerate the identification of industry solutions for decarbonisation in the air transport sector.
The MoU will then pave the way for a long-term offtake agreement of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) between Abra and Sumitomo.
Global demand for SAF is expected to reach 400 million tons by 2050, with demand from developed economies with limited feedstock availability, such as Japan, Singapore, and the European Union, placing increasing pressure on the aviation industry to decarbonise.
Brazil is well positioned to become a leading global SAF producer, supported by abundant feedstocks, a longstanding ethanol and biodiesel tradition and a strong commitment to renewable energy.
However, securing financing for SAF projects – and ensuring Brazilians continued access to essential, affordable, aviation – remain key challenges.
Maria Del Mar Whittaker, chief corporate responsibility officer, Abra Group, said: “At a time when financing for SAF projects is particularly challenging due to market uncertainties, demand constraints and evolving regulations, creative solutions that leverage the strengths of different global regions are the best path forward.
“This joint initiative represents an important step towards global climate alignment, connecting Japan’s commitment to decarbonisation with Brazil’s unique capacity for SAF production and its need for affordable aviation connectivity.
Takamasa Ueda, senior director and head of energy innovation initiative, Sumitomo Corporation do Brasil, said: “In order to unlock and accelerate the development of SAF capacity globally, it is essential to take a creative approach to overcome the key challenges facing this emerging industry.
“Sumitomo is actively engaged in SAF market development worldwide, and strongly believes that Brazil, with its abundant feedstock resources, has tremendous potential to become a major SAF supply hub for the global market.”