How Oil Seeds Are Shaping Global Agricultural Trade
As the name itself suggests, oil seeds are seeds used to extract oil. They are a vital source of vegetable oils for various purposes, such as food, cosmetics, and industrial applications. Moreover, oil seeds are also an important component of animal feed. The defatted oil seed meals serve as a valuable source of protein for livestock. Oil seeds have a long, rich history linked to human civilization and agriculture. Mention of some oil seeds (like rapeseed and sesame) can be found in ancient Indian Sanskrit writing dating back to around 2000 BC. In fact, sunflower seeds were cultivated and used as early as 3000 BC in regions of present-day Arizona and New Mexico. Today, more than 200 types of oil seeds are cultivated worldwide, contributing significantly to global agricultural trade, the economy, and food security.
Why Global Oil Seeds Buyers Are Actively Sourcing
With the rising demand for plant-based oils and increasing health awareness, international markets are actively sourcing high-quality oil seeds from reliable suppliers and exporters. Oil seeds serve as the raw material for multiple high-demand products, including edible oils, cold-pressed oils, cosmetic oils, biofuels, and animal feed. Soybeans and rapeseed are primarily used to produce biodiesel, a renewable fuel alternative to fossil fuels. Besides, oil seeds have industrial applications as well, especially in paints, lubricants, varnishes, and other products.
The growing popularity of plant-based diets, sustainable biofuel alternatives, and clean-label cosmetics is expanding the market for natural seed oils globally. In addition, innovations in farm practices, input quality, post-harvest technologies, and oil seed extraction (like Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Green Solvent Extraction) are also responsible for the growth of oilseed production and demand. Countries like the United States, Brazil, China, Nigeria, Argentina, and India are major players in oil seed production, accounting for a large percentage of the total output.
Oil Seeds in India
- Did you know that India is the fourth-largest oil seeds producer in the world, accounting for 20.8% of the total area under oil seed cultivation globally? The country contributes 10% of global production, majorly producing groundnut, soybean, sunflower, sesame, niger seed, mustard, and safflower (Source: Indian Trade Portal). India is known as the “queen of oil seeds” for castor, and it is a major player in sesame and cottonseed.
- As a matter of fact, the diverse climatic condition of India allows for the cultivation of 9 different oilseeds, which include 7 edible and 2 non-edible varieties. The Yellow Revolution in India (launched in 1986) further increased the production of edible oil seeds, especially mustard, sesame, and groundnut.
- India's total oilseeds production was recorded at 396.69 lakh tonnes in the year 2024. The major oilseed-producing states are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana (Source: India Brand Equity Foundation).
- India is also an important exporter of oilseed products. In the year 2022–23, the country exported approximately 3.46 million tonnes of oil meals, oilseeds, and minor oils, valued at ?14,609 crore (Source: Export Import Data). Exports have continued to increase in subsequent years.
- Indian oilseeds are primarily exported to the USA, UAE, Netherlands, China, Singapore, Australia, Belgium, Germany, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Italy, and Nepal. This presents a valuable opportunity for Indian suppliers and exporters to connect with and meet the demands of seeds oil buyers.
Different Types of Oil Seeds in Demand for Export/ Import
The demand of oil varies by region and application. Here are the most sought-after types by international oil seeds importers.
| Oil Seed varieties | Oil Content (%) | Major Producers | Primary Uses | Export Potential (India) |
| Soybean | 18–20% | USA, Brazil, Argentina, India, China | Edible oil, animal feed (meal), biodiesel | High (meal exports, demand in Asia) |
| Groundnut | 40–50% | India, China, Nigeria, USA, Sudan | Edible oil, snacks, peanut butter, animal feed | High (shelled & in-shell exports) |
| Rapeseed/Mustard | 38–45% | Canada, India, China, Germany, France | Cooking oil, biodiesel, animal feed | Medium (mainly domestic) |
| Sunflower | 40–50% | Ukraine, Russia, Argentina, India, Turkey | Edible oil, snacks, cosmetics | Moderate (oil exports growing) |
| Sesame | 45–50% | India, Myanmar, Sudan, Nigeria, Ethiopia | Edible oil, bakery, tahini, cosmetics | Very High (premium export crop) |
| Cottonseed | 15–20% | India, China, USA, Pakistan, Brazil | Edible oil (after refining), animal feed, cosmetics | Moderate (used mostly domestically) |
| Niger Seed | 30–35% | India, Ethiopia | Edible oil, bird feed | Niche (exports to Europe & USA) |
| Safflower | 30–40% | India, Mexico, USA, Kazakhstan | Cooking oil, paints, nutraceuticals | Low–Moderate (limited demand) |
| Poppy Seeds | 40–50% | Turkey, Czech Republic, India, Spain | Edible oil, bakery, pharmaceuticals | Moderate (strictly regulated exports) |
| Linseed (Flaxseed) | 35–45% | Canada, India, China, Russia | Edible oil, supplements, wood finish | Growing (health-conscious markets) |
| Castor Seed | 45–55% | India, Brazil, China | Industrial oil (lubricants, pharma, cosmetics) | Very High (India leads global exports) |
| Chia Seeds | 30–35% | Bolivia, Mexico, Argentina, India (emerging) | Health food, omega-3 oil, bakery | Growing (health-focused markets) |
Important notes:
- Oil content varies on the basis of seed quality, variety, and processing methods.
- Soybean and groundnut meals are in high demand for animal feed globally
- There has been a rise in castor oil buyers due to its unique industrial applications, with India dominating the global supply chain.
- Cotton seed oil is a by-product of cotton fiber production and is used in blended edible oils in India.
- Chia seeds are emerging in India and gaining popularity for their health benefits, especially in Western markets.
- Biotechnology and food safety trends are increasing demand for non-GMO and organic seed variants.
Exporters dealing in oil seeds can also diversify into related categories to increase profitability and attract a larger buyer base.
- Specialty Oils & Other Oil Seeds (including castor seed oil, cold-pressed flaxseed oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, rapeseed oil)
- Essential Oils (including agarwood (Oud) oil, tung oil)
- Edible Oils & Equipment (including refined edible oils, used oil, oil extraction machinery)
- Processed Seeds & Spices (including mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds)
- Broader Agri-Commodities (including grains & cereals, and a wide range of spices)
Global Market Data: Important Insights For Exporters
The oil seed export market opens vast opportunities. It is important for suppliers and exporters to understand key market trends, pricing dynamics, and buyer expectations to succeed. Here are the global insights you need to stay informed about.
Global Oil Seeds Market Size:
| Metric | Value |
| Market Size (2023) | USD 247.76 billion |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 257.67 billion |
| Projected Market Size (2032) | USD 352.64 billion |
| CAGR (2025-2032) | 4.00% |
| Largest Segment | Soybean |
Source: SkyQuest Technology
Top 3 Oil Seeds Importers:
| Sr. No. | Country Name | Total Shipments |
| 1 | India | 35,157 |
| 2 | Poland | 24,652 |
| 3 | China | 24,635 |
Source: Volza
Average Price Range of Different OIl Seeds Varieties in India:
The price of oil seeds varies depending on seed type, purity, moisture content, oil percentage, and global commodity trends. Here are the average prices for common oil seeds in India.
| Oil Seed Types | Price Range (?/quintal) |
| Mustard seed | 6,575 – 6,750 |
| Peanut (Groundnut) | 5,900 – 7,000 |
| Soybean seed | 4,300 – 4,675 |
| Sunflower seed | ~6,600 (?6,600/quintal) |
| Sesame seed | ~14,000 – 16,000 (?14K–16K/quintal) |
Source: Oils & Fats Asia
Different Oil Seeds HSN Codes:
| HSN Codes | Oil Seeds Varieties |
| 1205 | Mustard/Rapeseed |
| 1202 | Groundnut (Peanut) |
| 1201 | Soybean |
| 1206 | Sunflower seed |
| 12074 | Sesame seed |
| 12072 | Cottonseed |
| 12073 | Castor seed |
| 1204 | Linseed (Flaxseed) |
| 120791 | Niger seed |
| 12076 | Safflower seed |
| 120799 | Other oilseeds (mixed) |
How to Find Verified Oil Seeds Buyers Near Me (Locally) or Globally?
Whether you are looking for moringa seed buyers, castor seeds buyers, or cotton seed importers, here are the most effective methods to follow:
- Use online B2B platforms (such as go4WorldBusiness) to access the list of verified oil seed buyers near you or globally.
- Register on Government Export Portals like GFT (India), APEDA, and ITC’s Trade Map. These sources give you access to global trade statistics, buyer-seller directories, and export promotion councils that connect exporters with international buyers.
- Attend local and international trade events related to edible oils, agriculture, and food ingredients. Events like Gulfood (UAE), SIAL (France), AgriTech India, and regional agri expos are ideal for connecting with genuine buyers and distributors.
- Other social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook B2B groups, and WhatsApp exporter groups can also be useful for networking with active oil seed importers.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs):
1. How much oil from 1 kg of seeds?
The price of oil seeds varies depending on seed type, purity, moisture content, oil percentage, and global commodity trends. Here are the average prices for common oil seeds in India.
2. Who is the largest producer of oil seeds?
India is the largest producer of oilseeds globally.
3. Which Indian state is famous for oil seeds?
Rajasthan is famous for oil seeds production, accounting for over 20% of the total production.
4. Who is the largest importer of oilseeds in the world?
India is the largest importer of oilseeds in the world, followed by Poland and China.
5. Which is the king of oil seeds in India?
In India, groundnut is called the 'king of oilseeds'. It is also known as the 'wonder nut' or 'poor man's almond'.
6. Who is the queen of oil seeds?
Sesame seeds are known as the 'queen of oilseeds'. They are valued for their nutritional content and versatility.
7. Are oilseeds a cash crop?
Yes, oilseeds are considered a cash crop. Agricultural products grown primarily for sale instead of personal consumption are called cash crops. Oil seeds like mustard, soybean, sunflower, and rapeseed are cultivated and sold in bulk to generate profit.
8. How can I find a reliable buyer for my oilseeds?
You can find reliable oil seeds buyers through:
- B2B platforms (like go4WorldBusiness)
- Social media channels like Linkedin
- Government Export Portals
- Trade fairs (like Gulfood, SIAL, AgriTech India)
9. Which is the oldest oilseed crop in India?
Sesame (also called til) is the oldest oilseed crop in India.
10. Which oilseed has the highest oil content?
Castor & Sesame seeds have the highest oil content.
Latest News Related to Oil Seeds Global Trade:
White House signals India–US trade pact ‘very close,’ with oilseeds among key sectors under negotiation. (Full Story: Financial Express)
