Rapeseed condition in Ukraine suggests insufficient sowing to be offset by higher yield

Drought conditions in autumn 2020 led to a 19% reduction in the winter rapeseed area to 1050 mln ha in Ukraine. With spring rapeseed included, the harvested area is 1 mln ha, the consulting agency UkrAgroConsult reports.

In assessing the current condition of rapeseed, analysts expect high yields, record high even, which will compensate for the insufficient sowing and lead to a yield increase of 2-3%.

"There is currently no official statistics on the rapeseed harvest, but regional news on the start of the harvest campaign and the first yield data confirm the expectations expressed," the report reads.

This year's rapeseed harvest is delayed due to weather conditions (cold, prolonged spring, late ripening, summer heavy rains), which consequently shifts the start of the active phase of the season.

Experts add that the Ukrainian market is still oriented towards raw material exports to the EU, demand for which will be supported by the critical situation with canola crops in Canada.

READ MORE: How Germans Introduced Ukraine to Rapeseed. An Interview with Michael Rjasanowski

Ukrainian rapeseed prices are at high levels, but volatility is forcing agriproducers to take a wait-and-see attitude, which is aggravating the rapeseed supply situation.

As of 22 July, the new crop campaign in Ukraine reached 14.1 mln t of grains and legumes. Harvesting was 22% completed.

Rapeseed stocks in Ukraine reduced by 74% YoY as of 1 July.

Previously reported that Ristone Holdings finalized rapeseed harvesting.