U.S. Soyoil Exports Surge to 15-Year High Amid Price Shift by Amit Gupta, Kedia Advisory
U.S. soybean oil exports have skyrocketed in 2025, reaching a 15-year high due to favorable pricing and a shift in global vegetable oil trade. January exports hit 212,714 metric tons, the highest since 2010, compared to just 171,417 tons in the entire 2022-23 marketing year. Lower soybean oil prices, especially compared to palm oil, have revived export demand. India led purchases, accounting for 20% of U.S. exports, while South Korea, Colombia, and Mexico made up another 41%. With sales already surpassing USDA’s full-year projection of 726,000 tons, demand remains strong, potentially prompting an upward revision in USDA’s forecast.
Key Highlights
* U.S. soyoil exports hit a 15-year high in January 2025.
* January shipments totaled 212,714 metric tons, the highest since 2010.
* India accounted for 20% of U.S. soybean oil exports.
* Soyoil exports reached 105% of USDA’s full-year projection.
* Rising demand may push USDA to revise its export outlook upward.
U.S. soybean oil exports have rebounded strongly in 2025, reaching their highest levels in 15 years. January alone saw exports of 212,714 metric tons, a stark contrast to the record low of 171,417 tons in the entire 2022-23 marketing year. This resurgence is driven by a significant drop in soybean oil prices, making it more competitive against palm oil, a key rival in the global market.
The sharp decline in prices has played a crucial role in boosting demand. In 2022, soaring vegetable oil prices, partly due to aggressive U.S. renewable fuel targets, curtailed exports. However, these plans did not materialize as expected, allowing soybean oil prices to ease. By late 2024, U.S. soybean oil became cheaper than palm oil, attracting global buyers.
India, the world’s top edible oil importer, has been a key buyer, accounting for 20% of U.S. soyoil exports. South Korea, Colombia, and Mexico combined for another 41%. As of February 27, total U.S. soyoil export sales for 2024-25 have already hit 764,000 tons—a 12-year high. This figure exceeds USDA’s projected full-year exports of 726,000 tons, raising expectations that the agency may revise its outlook upward.
Finally
With U.S. soybean oil exports surpassing expectations, strong global demand and competitive pricing continue to drive sales. The USDA may need to adjust its forecast to reflect this rapid market shift.
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