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Dear Members and Stakeholders,

As we move into the second quarter of 2025, I am filled with a sense of pride and optimism for the Indian Oilseeds and Produce sector. The resilience and dynamism demonstrated by our community over the past months continue to strengthen India's reputation as a trusted exporter of quality agricultural products.

One of the significant highlights of the recent months has been our continued efforts to promote stakeholder engagement and knowledge sharing. IOPEPC was proud to participate in the Stakeholder Consultation on Sesame Processing and Export Opportunities for Odisha, where we explored the immense potential of Odisha’s Sesame production. Our engagement in this initiative, supported by International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), reflects our ongoing commitment to regional development and capacity building in emerging production zones.

Simultaneously, IOPEPC's participation in the Annual Group Meeting of AICRP on Groundnut in Udaipur provided an important platform to discuss advances in Groundnut research and export strategies. Mr. Khushwant Jain’s presentation on the Indian Groundnut export landscape was well-received and helped reinforce IOPEPC’s leadership in aligning research with market potential.

These engagements are part of our larger mission to empower Indian exporters through collaboration, technical insights, and strategic partnerships. I would also like to acknowledge the successful organization of a webinar on Payment Mechanisms and Trade Finance with Russia, which offered critical guidance to exporters navigating complex international payment systems.

In terms of performance, I am pleased to share that Indian Groundnut exports grew by 14.16% in quantity during April 2024 - January 2025, totaling 6,14,236 metric tons and valued at USD 689.64 million. This reflects robust demand from traditional markets like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. New opportunities are emerging in Iraq and Algeria, although competition remains intense in the UAE and Vietnam.

On the Sesame front, despite early challenges, exports registered a 4.98% growth in quantity, totaling 2,06,242 metric tons and fetching USD 429.07 million during the same period. The export momentum has been well-supported by consistent quality, improved processing infrastructure, and diversified market strategies.

These achievements reaffirm the strength of our sector, even amid global headwinds. As always, IOPEPC remains steadfast in its mission to provide guidance, create opportunities, and represent India’s agricultural export community on the global stage.

Looking ahead, I am pleased to announce the IOPEPC Trade Meet (Summer Crop) & Capacity Building Program 2025, scheduled to take place on May 03–04, 2025, at Saraza Banquets,

Rajkot, Gujarat. Jointly organized by IOPEPC and APEDA, this event will highlight Rabi Crop (Summer) survey estimates for Sesame Seeds and Groundnuts, and will include interactive sessions on international market opportunities, quality standards, and key industry developments. Experts from the Oilseed sector will share critical insights to help stakeholders navigate evolving trade scenarios.

Recognizing Gujarat’s strong performance in Sesame seed and Groundnut (summer) crops, this trade meet aims to provide valuable market intelligence and networking opportunities. I encourage all members and stakeholders to actively participate in this important initiative and leverage the knowledge shared to make informed business decisions and strengthen our export potential.

Thank you for your continued support and active participation. Together, we are sowing the seeds of growth, innovation, and global recognition for Indian Oilseeds.

Warm Regards,

Rutuparna Dole
Chairman
Indian Oilseeds And Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC)