Edible oil · importers
The Netherlands ranks fourth of 96 at $8.6B in the fats and oils chapter, and its port and tank-storage capacity make it Europe’s front door for bulk oils.
| Market | HS 15 imports |
|---|---|
| United States | $17.2B |
| India | $16.8B |
| China | $12.6B |
| Italy | $7.0B |
| Spain | $5.8B |
Figures are for the whole of HS chapter 15 (animal or vegetable fats and oils). Source: UN Comtrade, as reported by national authorities; latest available year per market.
China is above at $12.6B and Italy below at $7.0B. The Netherlands’ 5.9% share of reported world imports is well ahead of the market behind it. The chapter is 1.4% of its $621.1B imports and ranks 12th among its import chapters, the highest position among Europe’s leading buyers, which reflects a trading role rather than just local consumption.
Bulk oils arrive by tanker at large ports with extensive tank storage, are refined or blended there, and then move by barge, road or rail to food manufacturers and traders across Europe. Recorded imports therefore include large volumes that leave again. The figure reflects throughput more than Dutch consumption.
For an exporter, a buyer here may be a refiner, a storage company or a trader with customers in several countries.
European buyers of palm and other vegetable oils commonly ask for traceability and sustainability evidence, and regulators have added due-diligence expectations. These are set by the authorities and can change, so confirm the current requirements with them and with your buyer. Germany, the USA, Belgium and China lead the overall source list, which covers all goods.
The $8.6B covers the whole of HS chapter 15, animal and vegetable fats and oils, so edible oils are a part. Re-exports distort the ranking in a port economy like this one.
Oil-heading shipment records name the consignees and give weights. Agree Incoterm, currency, payment terms and discharge port, then use this site’s free marketplace to contact your shortlist.
Fourth of 96 markets at $8.6B in 2024, a 5.9% share of reported world imports.
It is 1.4% of $621.1B and ranks 12th, reflecting bulk tank storage and refining for the wider European market.
No. Much of it is redistributed to other countries.
Search oil-heading shipment records and separate refiners and storage firms from traders by consignee.
Keep exploring