- Refined soybean oil markets remained largely stable globally in Q1’26, with limited movement as supply availability balanced steady consumption and policy-led trade adjustments.
- Feedstock conditions stayed adequate, with sufficient soybean crushing, though logistics disruptions and freight cost increases added mild upward pressure toward the end of the quarter.
- Downstream demand remained steady, supported by consistent edible oil consumption, while policy changes and import expectations moderated bullish sentiment.
Refined soybean oil in Q1’26 showed a stable-to-slightly firm trend in Asia, particularly India, where prices moved within a narrow band due to balanced fundamentals. Market sentiment was influenced by trade policy developments, as India’s agreement to allow duty-free imports of U.S. soybean oil raised concerns over increased inflows and pressured domestic oilseed sentiment. According to USDA data, India’s soybean oil production stands at ~1.7 MMT against consumption of ~6.4 MMT, highlighting strong import dependence and sensitivity to global trade flows. While the quarter remained largely stable, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East disrupted key shipping routes, raising freight and insurance costs and delaying cargo arrivals, which tightened short-term availability and provided mild support. Demand from the food sector remained consistent, preventing volatility despite supply-side concerns.