Freeda D'Souza
Mumbai, July 24

LEADING SOYAMEAL exporters ITC and Ruchi Soya are upbeat about export prospects in the ensuing crop year, starting in November. They are expecting a better soyabean crop and firm international prices.

ITC, which accounts for about 15 per cent of the country's total soyameal exports, plans to almost double export volumes to 4,00,000 tonnes in the next crop year (2001-02), a company official said. A major portion of this will be exported before March next year.

ITC plans to supply directly to feed millers in West Asia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan, instead of dealing through traders. It hopes to hike direct exports to overseas feed millers to 70 per cent from 55 per cent in the current year. The company is also scouting for export opportunities in Europe. The company's soya business is estimated to be worth Rs.300 crore.

 

(Extract)