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India is one of the world's largest importers of edible oil, meeting a significant portion of its domestic demand through imports. While the country primarily imports palm oil, it also imports other types of oil, including sunflower oil. Sunflower kernels, commonly known as sunflower seeds, are an important source of protein for both humans and livestock.
In recent years, Indian importers have shown increasing interest in importing sunflower kernels, driven by several factors. One of the primary reasons for the increased interest in importing sunflower kernels is the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian protein sources in India. Sunflower kernels are a rich source of protein and are widely used in vegetarian and vegan diets. With the rising awareness of the health benefits of plant-based diets, more and more Indians are switching to vegetarianism or veganism, leading to an increased demand for protein sources such as sunflower kernels.
Another factor driving the demand for sunflower kernels in India is the growing popularity of healthy snacking options. Sunflower seeds are a popular healthy snack in many parts of the world, and their popularity is growing in India as well. The seeds are eaten roasted or raw and can be added to salads, trail mixes, or other dishes for an additional healthy component. As a result, many Indian consumers are now looking for sunflower seeds as a healthy snacking option. Additionally, sunflower kernels are also used in the food industry as an ingredient in bakery products, confectionaries, and breakfast cereals. The use of sunflower kernels in these products is growing, driven by their taste, nutrition value, and economic benefits. Many Indian food manufacturers and retailers now use sunflower kernels in their products, leading to increased demand for imports.
Another significant factor contributing to the growth of the Indian sunflower kernel market is the increased global supply. A few years ago, Russia was the world's largest exporter of sunflower seeds. However, in recent years, Ukraine has overtaken Russia as the largest exporter of sunflower seeds. As a result, the availability of sunflower seeds has increased significantly, leading to lower prices and making them a more attractive import option for Indian buyers. India is primarily dependent on imports for its sunflower kernel consumption, with Ukraine and Russia being the primary sources of imports. Indian importers also source sunflower kernels from other countries, including Argentina, Bulgaria, and China.
However, Ukraine remains the largest supplier of sunflower seeds to India, accounting for around 70% of total imports. In conclusion, the demand for sunflower kernels in India is growing, driven by several factors, including the increased demand for plant-based protein sources, healthy snacking options, and the needs of the food industry. The growing global supply, with Ukraine taking the lead as the largest exporter, has also made sunflower seeds a more attractive import option for Indian buyers. As such, sunflower kernels are expected to continue to be an important import item for India in the years to come.
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