India’s soybean meal exports fell nearly 63 percent to 60,000 tonnes in March 2026 compared to similar period last year, on account of high prevailing prices and continued disruption to supply chains due to ongoing conflict in West Asia.
India is a significant global exporter of non-GMO soybean meal, which is highly valued for animal feed, aquaculture, and food production. However, recent trends show a decline in export volumes due to high domestic prices and geopolitical disruptions.
Current Export Performance (2024–2026)
- Recent Decline: Exports fell sharply by nearly 63% in March 2026 (to 60,000 tonnes) compared to the previous year.
- Annual Volume: In the 2024–25 oil marketing year, exports declined by 11%, totalling 20.23 lakh tonnes. This followed a stronger 2023–24 period where shipments reached 22.75 lakh tonnes.
- Primary Drivers of Decline: High Indian soybean meal prices—often exceeding those from competitors like the US, Brazil, and Argentina—have reduced international competitiveness. Conflicts in West Asia have also disrupted shipping routes to key regional markets.
Key Export Destinations
India exports soybean meal to approximately 45 countries, with significant demand in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
- Major Importers: Japan, Vietnam, UAE, Oman, Iran, Bangladesh, Nepal, Germany, and Kenya are consistently among the top buyers.
- Emerging Stability: Bangladesh and Vietnam have emerged as particularly stable markets for Indian meal in recent years.
Industry Advantages and Products
- Non-GMO Status: India’s primary advantage is its production of non-GM soybean meal, attracting buyers from the US and Europe who seek alternatives to genetically modified crops.
- Protein Quality: Indian soybean meal is a vital protein source for poultry, dairy, and fish feed due to its high lysine content.
Major Indian Exporters
The following companies are prominent in the Indian soybean processing and export sector:
- Prestige Group: A leading export house with a processing capacity of nearly one million tons per annum, based in Indore.
- Gujarat Ambuja Exports Limited (GAEL): Manufactures a wide range of soya derivatives and feed ingredients.
- Rama Gum Industries (I) Ltd: Global exporter specializing in high-quality soybean meal for animal feed.
- Savaliya Agri Commodity Export Pvt Ltd: Supplies non-GMO, free-flowing granular soybean meal.
