September 13, 2004

China Jan - Aug Soybean Imports 12.5 Million MT, Down 15.1% On Year

China imported 12.5 million metric tons of soybeans from January to August this year, down 15.1% on year, Xinhua News Agency reported Monday, citing customs figures.

Imports of edible oils totaled 4.49 million tons in the first eight months, up 43.4% on year, the report said.

The report did not give any explanation for the fall in soybean imports or rise in vegetable oil imports, but said China's demand for raw materials is rising.