Bangladesh soybean oil imports fall as pricing dispute tightens supply
Lower import volumes and price controls strain the edible oil market, raising concerns over supply stability.
BANGLADESH – Bangladesh has recorded a sharp drop in soybean oil imports in the first four months of 2026, as disputes over pricing continue to affect supply.
Data from the commerce ministry shows imports fell to 261,000 tons between January and April, down from 448,000 tons during the same period last year. Importers say price controls in the local market have forced them to cut shipments, as they cannot match global prices without taking losses.
They have asked the government to revise domestic prices, but no clear action has followed. As a result, supply has tightened, and some areas have already reported shortages. Retail prices have also started to rise.
Palm oil imports have remained stable at about 457,000 tons over the same period, offering some relief. Still, Bangladesh relies heavily on imports to meet demand. The country consumes about 2.4 million tons of edible oil each year, with imports covering nearly 90 percent of this need.
Officials admit that bottled soybean oil has become harder to find in some places. However, they say the situation remains under control and that they continue to monitor the market closely. They also say they stay in contact with importers and stand ready to act if needed.
Industry players warn that continued losses could push import volumes even lower, which would increase pressure on supply and prices.
The decline in imports comes months after Bangladesh made a major commitment to secure soybean supply from the United States. In November 2025, leading processors and importers pledged to purchase soybeans and soybean meal worth US$1.25 billion.
The deal involved key firms such as Meghna Group of Industries, City Group, Delta Agrofood Industries Ltd., Mahbub Group, and KGS Group, working with the U.S. Soybean Export Council.
The agreement aimed to support feed and food production, including poultry, aquaculture, and edible oil.
“This is a milestone for Bangladesh and its crushing industries,” said MD. Taslim Shariar of Meghna Group of Industries. “The more we crush, the more we will achieve food security. It also supports the rapid growth of the poultry and feed sectors, while enhancing our edible oil industry.”
While the deal promised stable supply, current pricing tensions now test how the market will adjust in the months ahead.
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