Middle East & Africa Soybean Oil Market Outlook, 2028

In the MEA region, traditional culinary practices play a significant role in the use of cooking oils. While traditional oils like olive oil and palm oil are commonly used, soybean oil has made inroads into the culinary landscape due to its neutral flavor and versatility. It is often used for frying, sautéing, and as general-purpose cooking oil in a wide range of dishes. The MEA region is culturally diverse, with various countries and communities having their own unique cuisines and cooking styles. Soybean oil's neutral flavor makes it adaptable to these diverse cuisines, from North African tagines to Middle Eastern kebabs and South African curries. The health-consciousness of consumers in the MEA region has driven interest in healthier cooking oil options, including soybean oil. Its low saturated fat content and potential heart-healthy benefits align with dietary preferences for lighter and more heart-friendly oils. Beyond culinary applications, soybean oil finds uses in the industrial sector within the MEA region. It serves as a key ingredient in various industrial processes, such as soap and detergent manufacturing, cosmetics production, and biofuel generation. Health organizations and government agencies in the MEA region often run campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of using healthier cooking oils like soybean oil. These campaigns aim to educate consumers about the importance of making healthier dietary choices. In addition to cooking oil, the MEA region may see the emergence of other soy-based products, such as soy milk and tofu, to cater to consumers looking for plant-based protein alternatives. Given the substantial Muslim population in the region, the halal certification of food products, including cooking oils like soybean oil, is crucial. Ensuring that products comply with halal standards is an essential consideration for consumers. Deep frying is a common cooking method in the MEA region, particularly for popular dishes like falafel, samosas, and various fried pastries. Soybean oil's high smoke point and neutral flavor make it well-suited for deep frying, contributing to its popularity. Public health organizations and governments in the region may launch campaigns to educate the public about the importance of using healthier cooking oils to combat diet-related health issues such as obesity and heart disease. Food-related events, fairs, and festivals can showcase the culinary diversity of the MEA region and introduce consumers to various cooking oils, including soybean oil. According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Soybean Oil Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is expected to reach market size of more than USD 2.50 Billion by 2028. During religious fasting periods, such as Ramadan for Muslims, the choice of cooking oil becomes particularly important. Soybean oil may be a preferred option due to its versatility and neutral taste when preparing special dishes for iftar (breaking the fast). Younger generations in the MEA region, influenced by global culinary trends and digital media, explore new cooking techniques and ingredients, including soybean oil, in their kitchens. The MEA region is experiencing significant population growth, leading to an increased demand for edible oils, including soybean oil, as more people cook at home and consume processed foods that use soybean oil as an ingredient. Rapid urbanization in many MEA countries has led to changes in dietary habits. Urban residents often have busier lifestyles and may rely more on convenience foods that use soybean oil, contributing to higher consumption. Economic growth in certain MEA countries has resulted in higher disposable incomes. Consumers are willing to spend more on premium edible oils, and soybean oil often fits into this category due to its versatility and health benefits. As dietary preferences evolve, more people are exploring cuisines and dishes that use soybean oil as a primary cooking medium. Soybean oil's neutral flavor makes it suitable for a wide range of international cuisines. Increasing obesity rates and diet-related health issues in some MEA countries have prompted consumers to seek healthier cooking oil options like soybean oil, which is perceived as a better choice for weight management and overall health. The growing fitness and wellness culture in some MEA countries has led consumers to make health-conscious choices, including opting for soybean oil due to its heart-healthy attributes.

Middle East & Africa Soybean Oil Market based on country the market is divided into United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. The UAE is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a multicultural population that enjoys a wide range of international cuisines. Soybean oil's neutral taste and versatility make it preferred cooking oil for various dishes, both traditional and international. As a major tourism hub in the MEA region, the UAE hosts millions of tourists annually. The hospitality industry relies on soybean oil for cooking due to its cost-effectiveness and suitability for large-scale food preparation. The UAE's population is becoming increasingly health-conscious, leading to a shift from traditional cooking oils to healthier options like soybean oil. Consumers are drawn to soybean oil's lower saturated fat content and heart-healthy attributes. The UAE government has launched health and wellness initiatives to encourage healthier dietary choices among its residents. This includes promoting the use of healthier cooking oils like soybean oil. The UAE government has been actively promoting healthy lifestyle choices among its residents. As part of these campaigns, there is an emphasis on using healthier cooking oils like soybean oil to reduce the consumption of less healthy options. Soybean oil is commonly used in baking and pastry preparation in the UAE. It helps create tender and moist baked goods, contributing to the popularity of soybean oil in the local bakery sector. In addition, In Saudi Arabia, where Islam is the predominant religion, dietary choices often adhere to Islamic dietary laws (halal). Soybean oil is versatile cooking oil that is generally considered halal, making it a suitable choice for the majority of the population. Soybean oil is commonly used in preparing traditional Saudi breakfast dishes such as ful medames (fava beans), falafel, and various types of flatbreads. These breakfast staples often feature soybean oil as a key cooking medium. Saudi Arabia's cosmopolitan cities like Riyadh and Jeddah have seen the rise of fusion cuisine, where soybean oil is used creatively to blend traditional Saudi flavors with international culinary influences. Based on nature, the market is divided into conventional and organic in the Middle East & Africa soybean oil market.

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Manmayi Raval

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In certain cultures within the MEA region, soy-based products are used in traditional medicine and remedies. The organic designation may align with traditional healing practices and preferences for natural ingredients. Some consumers in the MEA region follow specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarianism or veganism. Organic soybean oil is often preferred in plant-based diets, making it sought-after cooking oil for individuals adhering to these lifestyles. Organic soybean oil is often considered a safer choice for individuals with soy allergies or sensitivities. It is less likely to contain traces of allergenic substances, which can be a critical factor for consumers with allergies. Organic soybean oil often carries a premium image, making it a choice for consumers who associate organic products with higher quality and a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. Increasing awareness about the nutritional benefits of organic foods and cooking ingredients, including soybean oil, has led to a shift in consumer preferences toward organic options. Some companies in the MEA region, particularly those with CSR initiatives, prioritize sourcing and using organic ingredients like soybean oil to align with their sustainability and ethical practices. The use of organic soybean oil in cosmetics, skincare, and wellness products is on the rise, driven by consumer preference for natural and organic ingredients in personal care items. In terms of end User the market is divided into household, industrial and food service. Cooking with soybean oil is a common culinary tradition in many MEA countries. Households often use soybean oil as a versatile cooking medium for frying, sautéing, and as a base for various traditional dishes. Cooking with soybean oil is a common culinary tradition in many MEA countries. Households often use soybean oil as a versatile cooking medium for frying, sautéing, and as a base for various traditional dishes. MEA countries have diverse and rich culinary traditions, where soybean oil plays a crucial role in preparing traditional dishes. Households rely on soybean oil to maintain the authentic flavors of their cuisine. Soybean oil's neutral flavor and ability to withstand high temperatures make it ideal for baking and frying. Households use it for preparing pastries, bread, snacks, and deep-fried foods commonly enjoyed in the region. Soybean oil is often competitively priced compared to other cooking oils, making it an economical choice for households, especially those with limited budgets. Soybean oil contains essential fatty acids and is often perceived as a healthier option compared to some other cooking oils. Households may choose soybean oil for its nutritional benefits. Soybean oil has a relatively long shelf life, which is advantageous for households, as it can be stored for extended periods without spoilage. Soybean oil is easy to work with in the kitchen, requiring minimal preparation or special handling. This ease of use is appealing to households, including home cooks of all skill levels.

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The market is divided into convenience store, hypermarket/supermarket, direct sales, online and others based on distribution channel. The MEA region is witnessing rapid urbanization, and convenience stores are often the go-to choice for consumers living in urban areas. Modern lifestyles characterized by busy schedules lead consumers to seek quick and accessible shopping options. Convenience stores are strategically located in urban and suburban areas, making them easily accessible to consumers. Shoppers can conveniently purchase essential cooking ingredients like soybean oil without the need for long journeys to larger supermarkets. Convenience stores typically have extended operating hours, often staying open 24/7. This convenience allows consumers to shop for soybean oil and other essentials at any time, catering to varied work and lifestyle schedules. Convenience stores often offer small pack sizes of soybean oil, which appeal to urban consumers, particularly singles and smaller households. These smaller quantities are convenient for storage and use. Busy urban consumers prefer quick and hassle-free shopping experiences. They can grab soybean oil and other cooking essentials swiftly, reducing the time spent on grocery shopping. Convenience stores often accept various payment methods, including cash and digital payments, making it easy for consumers to complete their purchases. Convenience stores near tourist destinations or transportation hubs cater to travelers who may need cooking essentials like soybean oil during their journeys. Some convenience stores also offer ready-to-eat meals and snacks that use soybean oil, making it a complementary purchase for consumers looking for quick meal solutions. Recent Developments: • ADM announced in 2023 that it is investing $100 million in a new soybean processing facility in Morocco. This facility is expected to be operational in 2024 and will have the capacity to process 500,000 tons of soybeans per year. • Cargill announced in 2022 that it is expanding its soybean processing capacity in Egypt. This expansion is expected to be completed in 2023 and will increase Cargill's soybean processing capacity in Egypt by 50%. • Bunge announced in 2023 that it is building a new soybean processing facility in Nigeria. This facility is expected to be operational in 2024 and will have the capacity to process 300,000 tons of soybeans per year. • Louis Dreyfus Company announced in 2022 that it is expanding its soybean processing capacity in South Africa. This expansion is expected to be completed in 2023 and will increase Louis Dreyfus Company's soybean processing capacity in South Africa by 30%. • CHS Inc. announced in 2023 that it is investing $50 million in a new soybean processing facility in Kenya. This facility is expected to be operational in 2024 and will have the capacity to process 200,000 tons of soybeans per year. Considered in this report • Geography: Middle East & Africa • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028 Aspects covered in this report • Middle East & Africa Soybean market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments • Country-wise Soybean Oil market analysis • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation Country covered in the report: • UAE • Saudi Arabia • South Africa By Nature • Conventional • Organic By End User • Household • Industrial • Food Service Distribution Channel • Convenience store • Hypermarket/Supermarket • Direct Sales • Online • Others The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Starch industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.