by PressCanola and rapeseed crops are expected to grow in Australia
FAS analysts: the canola crop will grow this season in Australia
For the fifth consecutive season, Australia is expecting a plentiful canola harvest. This is the country’s main oilseed crop.
FAS analysts have forecast oilseed production at 6.2 million tonnes. The canola crop will grow by 3.5% in the 2025-2026 season. This will be the third-largest crop in the country’s history. This increase is due to the expansion of the area under cultivation. Additionally, the crop’s yield per hectare has increased.
Last season was challenging for canola growers. Dry weather was experienced across much of Australia, affecting the quality of the crop. The current season is expected to be more favourable, which should have a positive impact on oilseed production. At the start of the period, there was plenty of soil moisture due to heavy autumn rainfall.
It is worth noting that local farmers consistently raise the yield of their winter crops. They adhere to a crop rotation programme, which yields positive results. This approach provides effective control of weeds and pests. It also helps to improve overall productivity.
Analysts forecast the following situation in the canola-growing sector:
— exports will be around 4.7 million tonnes;
— exports will decrease by 4% compared to the previous season;
— processing volumes will increase by 18% to 1.3 million tonnes;
— canola oil shipments will reach a record 290,000 tonnes, up 26%.
Reasons for growth
Over the past five years, Australia has increased its canola production, demonstrating the crop’s strategic importance to the economy. There are eight canola processing plants operating in the country. Six of these are located in the key regions of Victoria and New South Wales. These regions have traditionally experienced the highest national demand for canola oil. A further two crushing plants are located in Western Australia. Total processing capacity has increased by 300,000 tonnes to 1.6 million tonnes over the past few years.
The high value of canola oil on the world market has been a key factor driving the expansion of refining. The high yield of the oilseed crop has also contributed to the increase in processing volumes.
Forecasts for rapeseed
They expect a rise in rapeseed production, which will enable processing volumes to increase:
— rapeseed meal production will be at 754,000 tonnes. The growth compared to the last season will amount to 18%;
— rapeseed oil output will increase by 20% to 546 thousand tonnes.
Predictions suggest that meal production will reach its maximum level in the country. This product is in demand due to its high protein content. The main consumer is the feed industry. Thanks to its nutritional properties, rapeseed meal is a popular ingredient in cattle feed.