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India's oilmeal exports dropped nearly 10% during April-December 2024-25, with rapeseed and castorseed meals contributing significantly to the decline. The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) reported exports at 31.50 lakh tonnes, down from 34.96 lakh tonnes last year. Soyabean meal exports, however, grew 22.64%, driven by higher European demand. Challenges included competition in the global soyabean meal market, uncertain Bangladeshi demand for rapeseed meal, and increased availability of DDGS. Key importers like South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand reduced their purchases due to market conditions.

Key Highlights

* Indian oilmeal exports declined 9.89% during April-December 2024-25.

* Soyabean meal exports rose 22.64%, driven by European demand.

* Rapeseed and castorseed meal exports faced significant reductions.

* Major importers like South Korea and Vietnam lowered oilmeal imports.

* Competition from DDGS and global market trends affected performance.

India's oilmeal export performance saw a notable decline during April-December 2024-25, with total shipments falling by 9.89% to 31.50 lakh tonnes (lt) compared to 34.96 lt in the previous year. December 2024 recorded a sharper 25.15% drop in exports. Rapeseed and castorseed meals were the primary contributors to this downturn.

Soyabean meal, however, provided some relief, with exports increasing by 22.64% to 14.85 lt, up from 12.11 lt last year. This growth was fueled by higher European demand, with Germany and France being significant importers. Despite this, the global soyabean meal market's increased competition and lower crushing activities until December have started to affect production and exports.

Rapeseed meal exports fell drastically to 14.10 lt, with uncertainty in the Bangladeshi market leading to a significant drop in demand. Castorseed meal exports also shrank to 2.26 lt, reflecting reduced interest from major buyers. The local market's growing reliance on DDGS further contributed to the downward trend.

Among major importers, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand all reduced their oilmeal imports from India during this period. South Korea purchased 5.34 lt, down from 7.30 lt, while Vietnam's imports halved to 1.93 lt. Bangladesh remained a significant buyer, though its purchases also declined.

Finally

India's oilmeal exports face pressure from market uncertainties, rising competition, and declining demand in key markets. Sustained soyabean meal growth may offer some respite.

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