India’s oilmeal exports fell to 3.768 million tonnes in 2025-26, down from 4.342 million tonnes in the previous year, marking a decline of 13.22 percent. In monetary terms, exports dropped to ₹9,340 crore in 2025-26, compared to ₹12,171 crore in 2024-25.
BV Mehta, Executive Director of the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA), highlighted that the sector is currently grappling with substantial market and logistical challenges that adversely affect export revenues and profitability. Significant disruptions along the Red Sea shipping routes have escalated freight costs considerably. As geopolitical conflicts prompt shipping companies to avoid the Red Sea, rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope has resulted in delays of 10-15 days. This situation has led to container shortages and higher shipping expenses, impacting approximately 20 percent of India’s oilmeal exports destined for West Asia and 15 percent meant for Europe.
Mehta pointed out that Indian soybean meal exports are currently uncompetitive on the global stage due to pricing disparities with leading producers such as Argentina and Brazil. Domestic livestock feed manufacturers are increasingly opting for more affordable alternatives like DDGS (dried distillers grains with solubles), adversely affecting the demand for soymeal and other oilmeals. He noted that elevated domestic soybean prices and a decline in crushing activity have contributed to reduced shipping volumes.
During 2025-26, oilmeal exports to China reached 878,000 tonnes, primarily driven by competitive pricing of Indian rapeseed meal amidst China’s tariffs on Canadian canola products. The imposition of a 100 percent tax on Canadian rapeseed/canola meal significantly boosted Indian exports.
South Korea emerged as the second-largest importer of Indian oilmeals in 2025-26, receiving 350,000 tonnes. This included 154,000 tonnes of castorseed meal, 138,000 tonnes of rapeseed meal, and 59,000 tonnes of soybean meal. In contrast, exports to Bangladesh—a key importer—plummeted nearly 50 percent due to political instability in the country.
Other notable importers of Indian oilmeals included Kenya (187,000 tonnes), Germany (178,000 tonnes), Nepal (167,000 tonnes), and France (137,000 tonnes).
The export price of soybean meal surged to $477 per tonne in March 2026, up from $356 per tonne in March 2025, while rapeseed meal prices increased to $228 per tonne from $196 per tonne. A depreciation of approximately 8 percent in the Indian rupee over the year has aided exporters in navigating competitive pressures in the global market.
Published on May 27, 2026.
