India has begun importing soybeans from African countries after cancelling several soymeal export contracts, as tightening domestic supplies and rising prices reshape the country’s oilseed trade dynamics.
Industry sources said Indian exporters have either renegotiated or withdrawn soymeal export deals due to limited soybean availability in the domestic market. Lower arrivals from key producing states and firm demand from the poultry and livestock sectors have pushed soybean and soymeal prices higher in recent weeks.
To ease supply pressures, Indian processors and traders are increasingly sourcing soybeans from African origins, including countries such as South Africa and Mozambique. The imports are aimed at maintaining crushing operations and ensuring adequate soymeal availability for domestic feed manufacturers.
India is traditionally a major exporter of soymeal to markets across Asia, particularly during periods of strong domestic harvests. However, the current supply tightness has reversed trade flows, forcing importers to secure alternative soybean supplies to stabilise the local market.
Market participants said rising freight costs and global volatility in edible oil and feed markets have also influenced procurement decisions. Traders expect imports to continue in the near term if domestic soybean arrivals remain weak and prices stay elevated.
The development highlights growing pressure on India’s agricultural supply chains amid fluctuating crop output, changing weather patterns and strong feed demand from the poultry industry.