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Soybean is a type of legume and the fifth major crop produced globally. It is native to East Asia, and cultivated for both human consumption as food and animal feed. In fact, processed soybeans are the second-largest source of edible fat, contributing around 25% to global edible fat production, and the largest source of high-protein animal feed in the world. This staple crop is valued worldwide for its rich protein and oil content. About 85% of soybeans are processed each year into soybean meal and oil. Of this, around 95% of the oil is used for edible purposes, while the remaining goes into industrial products such as fatty acids, soaps, and biodiesel. Its rich history dates back to 7000 BCE when it was domesticated in China. It became an important crop during the Zhou dynasty (c. 1046-256 BC), and was eventually introduced to other parts of the world. It entered the U.S. market for the first time in the 19th century and soon became a valuable source of protein and oil, especially in the 20th century. Today, it is one of the most sought-after commodities for soybean buyers and importers across the globe.
Soybeans remain consistently in high demand, majorly due to their nutritional value (particularly as a source of plant-based protein) and versatility. Besides, they offer strategic export advantages because of their dual marketability (both as oil and protein), low perishability (compared to fruits or vegetables), and easy storage and transport (when properly dried and packaged). Also, soybeans are fit for rotation farming, especially when grown with grains, corn, or pulses.
Soybeans are processed into a wide range of products such as tofu, soy milk, and soy-based meat alternatives (popular among vegans and vegetarians). Soymeal, a byproduct of soybean oil extraction, is also a primary protein source for livestock. In addition, soybeans are used to produce a renewable fuel known as biodiesel. This biodiesel is more sustainable than petroleum-based alternatives, as it generates fewer air pollutants. Furthermore, soybean oil is chemically similar to petroleum, which makes it a better substitute for common products like tires, flooring materials, and more. All these factors are responsible for its growing trade across borders.
Here are the different types of soybeans that are traded worldwide:
These are the major soybean varieties. Apart from these, soybean exporters often diversify into related crops and value-added products to expand their reach and attract more buyers. To grow your export business, you can bundle your shipments with other high-demand agricultural products, such as:
Having knowledge of global market trends can help exporters in many ways. This data lets you identify new opportunities, adapt to changing conditions, and maintain competitiveness. Here are the key insights that every exporter should know.
Global Market Size:
Source: Grand View Research
Top Importing Countries for Soybeans (Oct 2023- Sep 2024):
Source: Volza
Top 5 Profitable Soybean Related Import Products:
Source: Volza
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Here are the methods that can help you find and connect with verified soybean importers and buyers worldwide.
1. What is the rate of 1 kg of soybean?
Although soybean prices vary based on several factors, the average price of 1 kg of soybeans can range from $0.45 to $0.86 per kg globally.
2. Who is the largest buyer of soybeans?
Indonesia is the biggest importer of soybeans, followed by the United States and Taiwan.
3. Where to sell soybeans?
You can sell soybeans through online B2B marketplaces. One such platform is go4WorldBusiness, where you can list your product and get verified buyers. Besides, you can also sell through government-supported export portals or directly reach out to bulk soybean importers.
4. Who is the biggest consumer of soybeans?
China is the biggest consumer of soybeans. In addition, the US and Brazil are also major consumers.
5. Who sells the most soybeans?
The top supplier countries of soybeans are China, Ukraine, the United States, Brazil, and Vietnam.
6. Which state in India is the highest producer of soybeans?
Madhya Pradesh is the highest soybean-producing state in India, contributing almost 50% to the country's total soybean production.
7. Which country does India export soybeans to?
India exports soybeans (primarily in the form of soybean meal) to countries like the United States, Nepal, Vietnam, Japan, Bangladesh, Iran, and Sri Lanka.
8. What is the volume of soybean exports from India?
In the year 2023-2024, India exported around 3.5 million metric tons of soybeans. Also, in terms of shipment, India recorded 1787 soybean shipments in the same year.
9. Where are the soybeans sourced from?
Soybeans are sourced from various countries. However, the United States, Brazil, and Argentina produce about 80% of the world's total soybeans.
10. What is the HS code for soybeans?
1201 is the main soybean HSN code.
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