Bunge halts soy crushing plant in Brazil's flood-hit state

SAO PAULO, May 10 (Reuters) - Bunge has temporarily suspended activities at its soybean crushing unit and port terminal in the city of Rio Grande, a statement sent to Reuters on Friday said.

The suspension, effective from Thursday, was taken due to forecasts of possible flooding in the region in the coming days.

Brazil is the world's largest soybean producer and exporter.

Relentless rains in Rio Grande do Sul state have flooded entire towns, left grain fields under water, killed people and livestock and destroyed critical infrastructure.

"Our priority is to ensure the safety of each of the 305 employees who work at our local facilities," Bunge said. "Operations will be suspended until there is a possibility of a safe return."

Bunge said it will continue to monitor the situation and provide all necessary support to our employees. (Reporting by Ana Mano. Editing by Jane Merriman)