World rapeseed production will not be able to meet demand

The Union for the Promotion of Oilseeds and Grains, founded by the German Farmers’ Association (UFOP), has warned of an impending global shortage of rapeseed.

The organization is calling for additional plantings of this oilseed crop in 2025.

According to the International Grains Council (IGC), global rapeseed production is forecast at 87.2 million tons in 2024/25, down 2% from last year due to reduced production area and lower yields.

In Australia, a major producer of the crop, the harvest is expected to fall further, estimated at 5.4 million tons – 700,000 tons below previous forecasts and 4.5% less than last year.

Ukraine is also facing challenges, with production expected at 4.9 million tons, 500,000 tons below previous forecasts.

Western Europe, especially France, Germany and the UK, have been hit by adverse weather conditions, including excessive rainfall and pests, resulting in a 5.1% drop in EU rapeseed production, which is now expected at 18.7 million tons.

UFOP expects rapeseed prices to rise and is advising farmers to adjust sowing plans for 2025 in line with rotation needs.

Growing demand from the biofuels sector, driven by the phasing out of palm oil-based biofuels in Germany, France and Sweden, is expected to affect rapeseed acreage and crop rotation strategies.