Widening Discount of Argentine Soybean Oil: A Comparative Analysis

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Widening Discount of Argentine Soybean Oil: A Comparative Analysis

Current Market Dynamics

The discount on Argentine soybean oil compared to US supplies is increasing, with the recent spread reaching approximately $350 per metric ton (€299). This trend is largely attributed to soaring US prices, impacting the competitive landscape for soybean oil on the global market.

Impact of Argentine Supply Surge

Favorable growing conditions and a significant ongoing harvest—34.3% complete as of May 7—are enhancing export availability from Argentina. Consequently, this situation has been putting downward pressure on local prices, with FOB Up River prices for Argentine crude soybean oil around $1,125/mt as of mid-March. As of early May, local soybean FOB prices were near $429/mt, further illustrating the pressures on the market.

US Policy-Driven Demand Factors

On the other hand, aggressive US biofuel mandates are generating unprecedented domestic demand for soybean oil, significantly pulling US supplies away from the global scene. The EPA has set record blending volumes for 2026-2027, requiring a more than 60% increase in soy-based biodiesel production compared to 2025. This insatiable demand has driven the CBOT soybean oil prices up over 30% this year, marking the highest levels observed since November 2022. As a result, the US market is effectively becoming an “energy island,” insulated from global benchmarks, while Argentine sellers face fierce competition, particularly against cheaper palm oil in international markets.

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