Delayed soybean sowing across major oilseed-producing states has triggered concerns over tightening domestic supplies, with industry stakeholders warning that the situation could lead to higher edible oil prices in the coming months.
Soyabean planting is reportedly running nearly two weeks behind schedule in key producing regions, including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Telangana and Karnataka, primarily due to delayed rainfall. The development comes at a time when edible oil prices are already under pressure amid geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia.
Industry estimates indicate that edible oil prices have increased by nearly 10% since the onset of tensions between the US and Iran, adding to inflationary concerns.
“The soyabean producing states are yet to receive adequate rainfall for sowing. Timely rainfall and its proper distribution are critical to ensure productivity is not impacted,” said DN Pathak, executive director of the Soyabean Processors Association of India.
According to SOPA data, India produced around 11.02 million tonnes of soyabean during the 2025 kharif season.
Industry experts also cautioned that the global edible oil market may face additional supply pressures if an El Niño weather pattern affects production in major soybean-producing countries such as the United States, Brazil, and Argentina.
Stakeholders believe that prolonged weather-related disruptions, both domestically and globally, could tighten supplies further and increase pressure on retail edible oil prices.