Chairperson's Desk
Dear Members,
The global trade landscape is undergoing significant transformation, driven by geopolitical shifts, climate-related disruptions such as El Niño and regional weather anomalies, and evolving export policies. These developments have had a considerable impact on both the global and domestic Oilseeds and edible Oils sectors.
Against this backdrop, the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi from 12–13 September 2026 under India's Chairship, assumes particular significance. The New Delhi Declaration provides a framework for cooperation in agriculture, with a focus on farmer-centric measures, sustainable agricultural practices, and strengthening food security.
Overall, the Summit adopted a distinctly farmer-centric approach to agricultural development, placing the welfare of smallholder farmers and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector at the forefront of its agenda. From the perspective of exporters in the Oilseeds and edible Oils sector, the outcomes extended beyond immediate financial assistance or short-term trade gains, emphasizing long-term sustainability, resilient supply chains and strengthened agricultural production systems. This approach offers a broader framework for enhancing the sector's competitiveness, ensuring supply stability and fostering sustainable growth in international markets.
Back at the Council, I am pleased to report that the Indian Oilseeds and Produce Export Promotion Council (IOPEPC) was represented at the 35th edition of WorldFood Expo 2026 held in Moscow, Russia, with India as the Partner Country. The Expo provided a valuable platform for engaging with industry stakeholders, international buyers and businesses to explore new opportunities for Indian Oilseeds in global markets and strengthen the Council's efforts to expand export opportunities for the sector.
As part of its mandate to support and facilitate exports, the Council also organized a webinar to promote the Government of India's Export Promotion Mission (EPM). The objective was to create awareness about this unified, digitally enabled framework aimed at enhancing India's export competitiveness and strengthening the country's export ecosystem. The session featured insightful discussions on various schemes, incentives and benefits available to exporters under the Mission, followed by an interactive exchange to help participants better understand its potential and practical relevance to their businesses.
On the export front, during April–August 2026, India exported 201,378 MT of Groundnuts and 101,230.3 MT of Sesame seeds. These figures highlight the continued potential for expanding exports of both commodities and tapping into emerging opportunities in international markets, in the months ahead.
While significant opportunities exist for Indian Oilseeds and edible Oils exporters, navigating the complexities of the evolving global trade landscape remains a key challenge. The Council remains committed to supporting exporters in identifying emerging market opportunities, addressing trade-related challenges and expanding India's footprint across global Oilseeds markets.
Moving forward, let us collectively transform uncertainty into opportunity and build a path towards sustainable growth, underpinned by resilience, innovation, and a shared commitment to advancing India's Oilseeds and edible Oils export sector.
Warm regards,
Sandeep Bhura
Chairperson
Indian Oilseeds and Produce Export Promotion Council