The Government of India, to its credit, has not stood apart from these challenges. Proactive steps to facilitate access to critical inputs, the push for modern farming practices, and the architecture of strategic Free Trade Agreements are laying down rails on which this sector's future will run. The recently announced Export Promotion Mission (EPM) represents one of the most purposeful policy interventions in recent years. It addresses important sectors like market diversification, export competitiveness, branding, and infrastructure in one cohesive framework. The progress on an interim India-USA trade arrangement adds further momentum. These small developments will be remembered as pivotal in the long arc of India's agricultural trade history.

On 9th May 2026, IOPEPC convened the Capacity Building Programme and Trade Meet 2026 at Rajkot, Gujarat. The gathering brought together over 400 delegates - exporters, traders, processors, manufacturers, policymakers, and industry experts - for substantive discussions on Groundnut and Sesame Seed exports. A key highlight of the programme was the release of the findings of the Summer Crop Survey, undertaken by IOPEPC in Gujarat for Groundnut and in Gujarat and Maharashtra for Sesame Seeds. It provided stakeholders with a comprehensive assessment of acreage, crop conditions, and production prospects. The strong participation and industry-wide representation in the discussion reflected the significance of reliable market intelligence and informed dialogue in supporting the growth and competitiveness of India's oilseeds export sector.

As we take stock of how Groundnut and Sesame Seeds have fared so far, we find that Groundnut exports recorded 64,832 MT in April 2026 as compared to 62,857 MT during the corresponding period of the previous year, reflecting a positive growth trend and sustained international demand for Indian Groundnuts. Sesame Seed exports stood at 16,791.69 MT in April 2026, demonstrating the continued presence of Indian Sesame Seeds in global markets. It is encouraging to note that Indian exporters are steadily strengthening their foothold in existing markets while also expanding their reach to newer destinations, thereby enhancing the global visibility and competitiveness of Indian oilseeds.

As I look ahead, I am conscious that the challenges before us are real - but I am more conscious of the depth of capability that exists within our people. The oilseeds sector has never needed protection from difficulty. It has needed the right policies, reliable intelligence, and the confidence that it does not stand alone. IOPEPC's commitment to each of these - through market development, bi-annual crop surveys, and sustained policy advocacy - remains absolute.

To the Government of India, to our members, to every farmer who tends the crop and every exporter who carries its value to the world - my deepest gratitude. Together, we are not navigating uncertainty - we are defining India's place in the future of global agricultural trade.

With regards,

Sandeep Bhura
Chairperson Indian Oilseeds and Produce Export Promotion Council