India’s soymeal exports recorded a strong rise in October, touching an estimated 163,000 tonnes compared with 111,000 tonnes during the same month last year, according to the Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA). The country shipped soymeal to 42 destinations, with Bangladesh, Nepal, Germany and France emerging as the largest buyers—reflecting India’s growing relevance in the global feed market.
Soymeal production also improved, reaching 829,000 tonnes in October, up from 750,000 tonnes a year ago. This growth comes despite a dip in soybean arrivals, which stood at 1.5 million tonnes for the month, lower than 1.8 million tonnes last year. Overall soybean output for the current season is estimated at 10.5 million tonnes, slightly below last year’s 12.6 million tonnes.
Crushing operations remained strong, with 1.05 million tonnes of soybeans crushed in October, higher than 950,000 tonnes a year earlier. As of October 1, total soybean stocks available for crushing, direct consumption and export were estimated at 9.8 million tonnes. By the end of October, soymeal stocks stood at 114,000 tonnes.
Soybean processing yields soyoil and soymeal—the latter being a key protein-rich feed ingredient preferred in poultry and livestock nutrition. India’s non-GMO soymeal enjoys strong demand globally. However, export competitiveness continues to face pressure from more affordable alternatives like DDGS in international markets. Despite this, India remains a major soymeal exporter and one of the largest importers of soy oil.
