Higher prices to boost soybean acreage in India

India’s soybean acreage for the 2026 kharif season is expected to increase by 5–7% compared to last year, supported by strong soybean prices. The Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA) said farmers are increasingly choosing soybeans because market prices remain above the government’s minimum support price.

According to SOPA, soybean planting has already been completed on 80–90% of the targeted area across the country’s major producing states. Many farmers who switched to corn last year are returning to soybean cultivation this season due to its better profitability.

India planted 11.4 mln ha of soybeans last year. If the forecast is realized, the country could significantly increase soybean production in 2026, improving domestic oilseed supplies.