For MY 2012/13 (October-September), soybeans, peanuts and sunflower were planted on 16.5 million hectares, up 15 percent over last year. Normal to excess rains in all major oilseed growing regions coupled with strong oilseed prices encouraged higher planting in kharif 2013. Soybean production is estimated at a record 13.5 million tons, up 2.3 million tons over last year. However, lack of sunshine and dry weather during the last few weeks could lower overall yields and temper the soybean production prospects. Edible oil imports and oilmeal exports are projected at 10.7 million tons and 5.4 million tons, respectively.
