GLOBAL grain trader Viterra, a major player in South Australia’s grain supply chain, has officially merged with international agribusiness Bunge, in a deal that creates one of the world’s largest food and agriculture companies.

The merger was confirmed on July 2, with the companies announcing the completion of an agreement first flagged in 2023.

The deal is valued at more than AUD $30 billion, and has implications for grain growers, exporters and supply chain operators.

Viterra owns and operates key grain storage and export sites across Yorke Peninsula, including at Wallaroo, Ardrossan and Port Giles.

Under the merger terms with Bunge, Canadian company Glencore — which took ownership of Viterra in December 2012 — received 32.8 million shares in Bunge, representing 16.4 per cent of the enlarged company, and around USD $900 million in cash, subject to later adjustment under the merger terms.

Viterra and Bunge say the deal has created a “premier global agribusiness” with improved supply chain efficiency, access to broader international markets, and more stable pricing mechanisms.

Bunge chief executive Greg Heckman described the merger as a “defining moment” for both companies.

“We’ve formed a stronger organisation with enhanced capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our customers and connect farmers to consumers around the world,” he said.

The merged company will have a larger global footprint, combining Bunge’s experience in oilseeds and processing with Viterra’s extensive grain handling and export infrastructure, particularly across Australia, Canada and South America.

The two companies are now integrating their operations, a process which is expected to take many months.