Source: Oleoscope (Russia)
Since the start of the 2024/25 season (July to 22 September), Ukraine has increased its rapeseed exports to the EU to 1.5 million tons. This is 27% more than in the same period last season and is due to high demand from European importers, as Ukraine’s own 2024 oilseed harvest is insufficient. Total rapeseed exports from Ukraine reached 1.6 million tons, 13% more than in the same period last season.
According to the European Commission, rapeseed imports to the EU increased by up to 40% in the first 2.5 months of the new season. Ukrainian rapeseed accounted for 59% of total imports of this crop into the EU, compared to 49% in the same period last year.
APK-Inform notes that Ukrainian rapeseed stocks are depleting quite rapidly, while EU purchases of Australian rapeseed are increasing, accounting for a third of imported oilseeds, up from 24% in the previous season. The proportion of rapeseed deliveries from Ukraine to EU countries was already falling in September. Around 414,000 tons were shipped in the 22 days of September, 50% less than in August and around 3% less than in September 2023.
“One of the reasons for the decline in trade is falling demand, as most companies are ending the active season and continuing to ship raw materials under already signed contracts. In addition, free rapeseed stocks in Ukraine have noticeably decreased due to high exports, and many farmers want to hold back on selling raw materials, expecting to realize some volumes later at more attractive prices” – according to the report of Ukrainian agro-analysts.
As of September 23, the area planted with oilseeds is 17% lower than last year. The rains in September did not sufficiently replenish the moisture reserves, which could further reduce rapeseed production in Ukraine in 2025.
Previously, Ukrainian agricultural traders had noted lower rapeseed supply from farmers and lower stocks in general, due to a smaller harvest and high export rates in the past.