India’s Mustard Arrivals

Mustard arrivals in India's wholesale markets have declined over the past two months due to the lean supply season. Meanwhile, sowing areas for mustard remain lower compared to last year. Sporadic harvesting of the early sown mustard crop is expected to begin in February, signaling the start of the new season.

Mustard Supply Data from March to December 2024

Between March and December 2024, 101.50 million tonnes of mustard arrived at wholesale markets and government procurement centers across the country. According to data from Marudhar Trading Agency in Jaipur, the breakdown of arrivals in wholesale markets was as follows:

• March: 15.50 million tonnes
• April: 15 million tonnes
• May: 11 million tonnes
• June: 9 million tonnes
• July: 8.50 million tonnes
• August: 6 million tonnes
• September & October: 5 million tonnes each
• November: 3.50 million tonnes
• December: 3 million tonnes

This totaled 81.50 million tonnes at wholesale markets. Government procurement centers, managed by agencies like NAFED and HAFED, accounted for an additional 20 million tonnes, primarily purchased between March and June.

Mustard Stock and Crushing Trends

On March 1, 2024, India’s total mustard stock was estimated at 108 million tonnes. By January 1, 2025, 22 million tonnes of mustard remained available, with 6.50 million tonnes left on farms, 4 million tonnes with crushers and processors, and 11.50 million tonnes held by government agencies.

Crushing operations consumed 98 million tonnes of mustard during this period. The average arrival of mustard in February is expected to range between 6-7 million tonnes, which will likely be processed alongside new arrivals.

Mustard Production Estimates

Industry estimates for mustard production during the 2023-24 Rabi season stand at 115 million tonnes, revised from earlier forecasts. Crushing activities in February 2024 utilized 7 million tonnes, leaving the final production estimate at 108 million tonnes. With early harvesting beginning in February, the mustard market is gearing up for another active season.