Published: 21 October 2025Economy
SOPA Estimates India's Soybean Production at 105.4 Lakh Tonnes in 2025-26
India's soybean production for the 2025-26 kharif season was estimated by the Soybean Processors Association of India at 105.36 lakh tonnes, down about 20.5 lakh tonnes from 125.82 lakh tonnes in the previous kharif season. SOPA cited lower acreage, lower productivity and adverse weather as reasons for the estimated fall.
The crop suffered significant weather damage. SOPA said heavy monsoon rains, especially in Rajasthan, reduced soybean production sharply, while yellow mosaic virus damaged the crop in many places. Madhya Pradesh remained a major producer and also reported rain-related damage. SOPA added that India imports more than 60% of its edible oil needs, so a smaller soybean crop can keep pressure on edible-oil imports.
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Linked questionEasy
As per SOPA's Kharif 2025 state-wise soybean estimates, which state was India's largest soybean-producing state?
Explanation · Correct answer BMaharashtra is correct. SOPA's Kharif 2025 state-wise table estimated Maharashtra's soybean production at 52.229 lakh tonnes, ahead of the other major soybean-producing states. Madhya Pradesh remains a major soybean state, but it was not first in this estimate.
Frequently asked questions
What is India's soybean production figure that represents a five-year low?
India's soybean production fell to a **five-year low of 105.4 lakh tonnes** in 2025, significantly impacting the oilseed supply chain, soybean oil market, and poultry feed industry that depends on soybean meal.
What factors caused India's soybean production to drop to 105.4 lakh tonnes?
The drop to **105.4 lakh tonnes** was caused by **irregular monsoon patterns, excess rainfall in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra during pod-filling stage, pink stemfly pest infestations**, and late planting due to delayed monsoon onset.
How does India's soybean production fall affect edible oil prices?
A lower soybean crop reduces **domestic soybean oil production**, potentially increasing edible oil prices and forcing India to import more palm oil or sunflower oil to meet domestic demand, worsening the current account balance.
Which state is the largest soybean producer in India?
**Madhya Pradesh** is India's largest soybean producing state, accounting for about **40% of national output**, followed by Maharashtra and Rajasthan. All three states were affected by erratic weather in the 2025 kharif season.
What is the relationship between soybean production and India's poultry sector?
**Soybean meal** (a by-product of soybean oil extraction) is the primary **protein ingredient in poultry and aquaculture feed**. A drop in soybean production tightens meal supply and raises poultry feed costs, affecting egg and chicken prices.
