India’s oilmeal exports declined sharply by 42% in January compared to the same period last year, reflecting subdued global demand and intensified competition from key producing nations. The contraction underscores ongoing volatility in agricultural commodity markets, driven by fluctuating feed demand, currency movements and shifting trade policies. Exporters face margin pressure as international buyers recalibrate procurement strategies. Analysts caution that unless global livestock demand strengthens or freight conditions improve, near-term recovery in shipments may remain constrained.
Export Performance Under Pressure
Industry data show that shipments of oilmeal—a key byproduct used in animal feed—fell significantly in January, marking one of the steepest year-on-year declines in recent months.
Major importing regions reduced purchases amid ample global supply and competitive pricing from alternative exporters.
Structural Challenges in Agricultural Trade
Currency fluctuations and freight costs have further influenced export competitiveness. Domestic processors also contend with input price volatility, affecting profitability.
Agricultural economists note that diversification of export markets and value-added processing could mitigate future downturns in commodity cycles.
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