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EU rapeseed imports experienced a sharp decline at the opening of the 2026/27 season, signaling a tightening of feedstock availability for European biodiesel and HVO producers despite a smaller domestic harvest. New industry data reveals that rapeseed arrivals from July to September totaled approximately 871,500 tonnes, marking a 14% year-on-year drop as logistical bottlenecks in Ukraine continue to restructure global trade flows.
Ukraine maintained its status as the primary supplier to the EU, yet volumes saw a significant contraction. As highlights in the source documentation, 'imports remained below the 599,900 tonnes recorded from July through September 2025', even with a larger Ukrainian harvest on record. Persistent logistical hurdles—specifically regarding seaborne transport—have compelled exporters to shift toward rail transport, which has limited throughput and reduced the immediate supply for EU crushers and renewable fuel manufacturers.
Australia has bolstered its position as the EU's second-largest supplier, delivering 185,100 tonnes, a 35% increase compared to last year. Canada followed closely with 121,700 tonnes, representing a dramatic surge from the near-zero levels seen in 2025. According to UFOP, this strategic shift is a response to Ukraine's export constraints, China's ongoing trade dispute with Canada, and escalating freight rates affecting Australian routes.
Critically for the energy sector, Canadian rapeseed is being directed primarily into renewable fuel production due to EU regulatory restrictions on genetically modified varieties for food consumption. As the report indicates, 'the biofuels market [is] by far the most important trade channel for Canadian rapeseed oil.' Furthermore, Canada's early compliance under the EU's updated NUTS 2 greenhouse gas values solidifies its role as a reliable supplier for RED III-aligned biofuel pathways.
With the RED III framework mandating increased renewable fuel quotas through the 2026–27 period, the slowdown in early-season imports emphasizes the necessity of diversified supply chains and certified feedstock sources. Market stakeholders are now closely monitoring whether logistical upgrades in Ukraine or increased volumes from Australia and Canada can stabilize market availability in the coming months.
Source: Biofuels International Magazine