India’s rapeseed meal exports have surged to record levels in the 2025–26 marketing year, driven largely by aggressive buying from China amid tightening global feed supplies and competitive Indian pricing. Between April and November 2025, shipments rose sharply compared to the same period last year, marking the strongest export performance on record. Industry sources indicate that China accounted for a significant share of total exports during this period, emerging as the dominant buyer of Indian rapeseed meal.
China’s increased purchases are attributed to strong feed demand from its livestock and aquaculture sectors, coupled with fluctuating availability of alternative protein meals such as soybean meal. Competitive pricing and steady supplies from India further enhanced the attractiveness of Indian-origin rapeseed meal in global markets. Traders noted that favorable crushing margins in India also supported higher meal availability for exports. The rise in domestic oilseed processing, supported by improved rapeseed production in key growing states, helped ensure adequate exportable surplus.
While China led the buying spree, other Asian markets also remained active importers. However, the scale of Chinese purchases significantly outweighed traditional buyers, reshaping India’s export pattern for the season.
The export surge has lent firm support to domestic rapeseed prices and crushing activity. Market participants suggest that sustained overseas demand could keep rapeseed meal prices supported in the near term, although future trade flows will depend on global oilseed supply trends and China’s feed demand outlook.
With global feed markets remaining dynamic, India’s rapeseed meal exports are expected to stay strong in the coming months. Continued Chinese buying, along with stable domestic production, could help maintain momentum through the remainder of the marketing year.
