Our participation in Gulfood 2025, held in Dubai in the third week of February, was a testament to India’s strong foothold in the global agri-commodity trade. With 11 well-curated stalls, IOPEPC showcased the superior quality, sustainability, and export potential of Indian Oilseeds. The event facilitated invaluable trade discussions and networking, reinforcing confidence in the future of our sector. A notable highlight was the visit of Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Minister of Food Processing Industries, to our pavilion, where discussions centered on expanding India’s export footprint. Such international platforms are crucial in fostering global trade relations, and the overwhelming response at Gulfood reaffirmed the robust demand for Indian Oilseeds.
IOPEPC remains committed to addressing key trade concerns and enhancing the business environment for exporters. In pursuit of this goal, we actively participated in the RBI Meeting on Trade Regulations held in the last week of February, where pressing issues related to banking policies, trade finance, and compliance were deliberated. Ensuring a seamless trade ecosystem is imperative, and our engagement in such regulatory discussions ensures that exporters’ voices are heard at the highest levels.
The latest export figures indicate promising trends in the Oilseeds sector. Groundnut exports during April-December 2024 surged to 5,38,797 metric tons, registering a 14.84% growth compared to the previous year. Indonesia remained the top destination, recording a 38.81% increase, while markets such as Russia and Algeria exhibited strong demand growth at 45.72% and 252.14%, respectively. On the other hand, exports to Vietnam and the UAE experienced some moderation. Despite the increase in volume, the total export value stood at $596.99 million, reflecting a marginal decline compared to last year.
In the Sesame segment, exports reached 1,83,633 metric tons, reflecting a 2.35% increase. South Korea led the demand with 19,737 metric tons, registering a 35.64% growth, followed by steady imports from the USA and Vietnam. However, exports to China and Turkey witnessed sharp declines, signaling the need for strategic interventions. The total Sesame value stood at $370.03 million, slightly lower than the previous year. These insights emphasize both the strengths and challenges in our export landscape, reaffirming the importance of proactive engagement and market diversification.
Empowering farmers remains integral to IOPEPC’s mission. The Farmers' Convention on Oilseed Cultivation, held in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, in the last week of February, was a landmark event that brought together over 500 farmers, researchers, and agribusiness leaders. Discussions focused on advanced cultivation techniques, precision farming, and pest management strategies, ensuring that Indian farmers stay ahead with innovative and sustainable practices. A key highlight was the launch of a Sesame Seed Cultivation booklet, equipping farmers with scientifically backed methods to enhance productivity and quality.
Looking ahead, I invite all stakeholders to participate in the Trade Meet & Rabi (Summer) Crop Survey 2025 Presentation, scheduled in Rajkot, Gujarat, on 3rd-4th May 2025. This event will offer valuable insights into Sesame and Groundnut crop patterns, yield forecasts, and market trends, empowering exporters with data-driven decision-making capabilities. Furthermore, IOPEPC remains deeply engaged in WTO SPS & TBT Committee discussions, trade regulations in Russian Special Economic Zones, and policy deliberations with regulatory bodies to ensure Indian Oilseeds remain competitive in the global trade arena.
As we chart the path forward, I urge all members to actively contribute, collaborate, and participate in shaping a stronger future for India's Oilseeds sector. Our collective efforts drive the success of this industry, and together, we will continue to propel Indian Oilseeds to greater heights.
Rutuparna Dole
Chairman
Indian Oilseeds And Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC)