Soybean · importers
Mexico ranks fourth of 96 at $4.9B in the oil seeds chapter, and its land border with a major producer decides much of what it buys.
| Market | HS 12 imports |
|---|---|
| China | $61.5B |
| Germany | $7.1B |
| Japan | $5.3B |
| Netherlands | $4.2B |
| Argentina | $3.3B |
Figures are for the whole of HS chapter 12 (oil seeds and oleaginous fruits); soybean is only part of it. Source: UN Comtrade, as reported by national authorities; latest available year per market.
Japan is above at $5.3B and the Netherlands below at $4.2B. Mexico’s 3.6% share of reported world imports is not far from Japan’s. The chapter is 0.8% of the country’s $636.8B imports and ranks 20th among its import chapters, a comparatively high place next to electrical machinery at $131.2B and industrial machinery at $109.7B.
Oil seeds matter to the Mexican import bill more than the raw share suggests.
The USA is by far the leading overall source, followed by China, the Republic of Korea and Germany. That list covers all goods, but it reflects the weight of the neighbour to the north. For oil seeds, rail and truck links from a large producing country give nearby suppliers a cost and lead-time edge over sea-freighted origins.
An overseas seller should have a clear reason for a buyer to add a distant source, such as availability in a particular season.
Imported soybeans supply crushers, who sell oil and meal, and feed makers for the livestock sector. Ask the buyer about oil and protein specifications, moisture limits and how cargoes are received at port. Confirm the current import, biosafety and inspection requirements with the authorities.
The $4.9B is the value for all of HS chapter 12, oil seeds and oleaginous fruits. Soybeans are only a share, and countries declare their own data, so re-exports or gaps in reporting can move a market up or down the table.
To reach named buyers, read customs shipment data under the soybean heading for consignee names and weights. Agree Incoterm, currency and payment terms early with any prospect, then make contact through this site’s free marketplace. Because purchases from neighbouring producers arrive by rail and truck, it is worth asking each buyer what share of its supply comes overland and what would justify an ocean cargo.
Fourth of 96 at $4.9B in 2024, a 3.6% share of reported world imports, behind Japan at $5.3B.
It is 0.8% of $636.8B and ranks 20th among the country's import chapters, a higher place than in many larger economies.
Rail and truck links to a large producer give nearby origins a lead-time and cost advantage over sea cargoes.
Filter customs shipment data to the soybean heading, then sort consignees by frequency and declared value.
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