China's rapeseed imports during the first quarter of 2023 amounted to 1.66 million tons, indicating a staggering increase of 343% compared to the same period in the previous year. This import volume sets a new record for China as it is the largest quantity received during this time frame in the country's history. Additionally, the total rapeseed imports during the first six months of the 2022-23 (Oct to Sep) season reached 2.76 million tons, compared to 1.17 million tons during the corresponding period last year, demonstrating a significant increase in demand.

Canada is China's primary rapeseed partner, supplying over 91% of the nation's total rapeseed imports during the first quarter of 2023. Meanwhile, Russia delivered 7% of the total rapeseed imports during the same period, becoming the second-largest exporter to China.

It is expected that China will import more than 3.5 million tons of rapeseed during the 2022-23 (Oct to Sep) season, which further reflects the country's growing need for this particular commodity.