Browse Data and Analysis

Sugar production in 2025/26 is projected to reach 6.6 million tons, which is 13.7 percent higher than the 2024/25 estimated production. This increase is based on expectations for improved sugar content and average cane yield.

India’s fiber market is dominated by cotton, however, increased international demand for sustainable fibers is driving apparel and textile manufacturers to utilize hemp.

On March 25, 2025, India’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, notified that a Sanitary Import Permit (SIP) is not required for the import of raw fishery products.

The Government of India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) published a measure that aims to enhance food safety standards by allowing the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for food packaging, storage and distribution.

Wheat production is projected to fall to 27.5 million tons in 2025/26 due to a decrease in cultivated area and extremely dry weather. This shortfall in domestic production is expected to lead to increased imports, forecast at 1.7 million tons.

Post New Delhi forecasts total oilseed production to reach 43 million metric tons (MMT) for the marketing year (MY) 2025/26, marking a slight increase. For the first time, rapeseed production is expected to surpass soybean production, driven by improved price realization.

India is on course to hit its third record wheat crop in MY 2025/2026 forecast on higher planting and optimal growing conditions.

India’s food processing sector holds significant growth potential in tier II and III cities and rural areas.

Following the resumption of genetically engineered soybean imports after two years, soybean imports are forecast to rebound to 2 million tons in 2025/26. With a slight increase in domestic production expected, rapeseed imports are forecast to decline.

FAS Mumbai forecasts marketing year (MY) 2025/26 India cotton production at 25 million 480 lb. bales on 11.4 million hectares of planted area, a three percent decrease from the previous year due to an expected shift of planted area to higher-return crops such as pulses and oilseeds.

Driven by a minor increase in area and assuming average yields, cotton production is expected to increase somewhat in 2025/26. With expectations for continued strong export demand, domestic use is forecast to grow modestly in 2025/26.

U.S. soybean exports to Pakistan have resumed after Pakistan removed a 2-year functional ban. On February 18, 2025, Pakistan received its first U.S. soybean shipment of 65,000 tons, and U.S. exporters will soon ship approximately 200,000 more tons.