Thursday, May 16, 2013

Commodities Buzz: Chinese Soybean Imports Seen At 66 Million Tonnes

China's soybean imports are expected to reach record highs in the coming year, according to forecasts released on Wednesday by the China National Grain and Oils Information Center. China- already the world's largest soybean importing country is expected to import 66 million metric tons during the 2013-14-market year (September 2013 to August 2014).

In 2012, China's soybean imports soared by 11.2% from the previous year to 58.4 million tons. The US Department of Agriculture recently predicted China's imports of the beans will jump to 69 million tons during the period, while putting import volumes for the current market year at 59 million tons. The size of Chinese imports is viewed as a key influence on soybean price potential, especially towards the end of the year when the US, which normally has a seasonal dominance in world exports, will face enhanced South American competition.

According to the center's figures, the country's soybean production this year is likely to drop by 3.9% from a year ago to 12.3 million tons, which would mark the third year running of reduced output. The amount of area dedicated to growing the beans is also expected to decline, by 3.7%, the center said, after the area shrank by 14.4% the previous year.
Source by Commodity Insights

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