Soymeal imports sought by India’s poultry breeders are facing opposition from the country’s soybean processors, who say domestic supplies will be sufficient and warn that imports could depress prices paid to farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Poultry breeders have sought permission to import 30 lakh tonnes of genetically modified soymeal at zero duty.
- SOPA estimates 2026–27 soymeal availability at 81.72 lakh tonnes, slightly above demand of 80 lakh tonnes.
- The processors also oppose extending a zero-duty soybean concession to all African countries.
Soymeal imports divide industry groups
The Soyabean Processors Association of India, or SOPA, has asked the government not to permit genetically modified soymeal imports. Its representation to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal followed a request from the All-India Poultry Breeders Association for 30 lakh tonnes of GM soymeal at zero duty.
The poultry association also sought to extend zero-duty imports of non-GM soybeans to all African countries, rather than limiting the concession to least developed countries. SOPA said the existing concession was sufficient and should not become a general tariff preference.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| GM soymeal import request | 30 lakh tonnes at zero duty |
| Estimated 2026–27 soymeal availability | 81.72 lakh tonnes |
| Estimated total soymeal demand | 80 lakh tonnes |
| Estimated soybean crop | 107.90 lakh tonnes, versus trade estimates of 95–100 lakh tonnes |
Processors point to an estimated supply buffer
For the October 2026–September 2027 oil year, SOPA estimates domestic soymeal availability of 81.72 lakh tonnes against total demand of 80 lakh tonnes. That would leave a carry-forward of 1.72 lakh tonnes on September 30, 2027.
SOPA also estimates closing soybean stocks of 8.82 lakh tonnes, equivalent to nearly 7 lakh tonnes of meal that could be produced through crushing. Together with the soymeal carry-forward, the association puts the effective buffer at close to 9 lakh tonnes.
The group estimates poultry and aquaculture demand at 62.43 lakh tonnes after accounting for substitution with distillers dried grains with solubles, or DDGS. It says lower soymeal exports and soybean imports are already factored into its supply estimates.
Crop estimates and prices remain contested
SOPA estimates India’s 2026–27 soybean crop at 107.90 lakh tonnes. Trade estimates range from 95 lakh to 100 lakh tonnes amid drought-like conditions in Maharashtra.
The association argued that firm prices alone do not justify imports. It said a smaller crop could support prices that signal value to farmers, while imports could depress domestic prices and hurt farm income.
Read More News
Disclaimer
This FinanceVelix article provides general information, not personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Market prices, interest rates and economic conditions can change; investments carry a risk of loss. Facts reflect the material available when published and may change. Check important information independently and consult a qualified professional when needed. Mentioning an asset, company, or service is not an endorsement.
Comments
Be respectful. No spam, impersonation or private credentials. Ordinary posts and comments appear immediately; suspicious links are held for review.
Please wait…