Solvent Extractors' Association Estimates 20.5% Decline in Gujarat's Kharif Groundnut Production

A recent ground survey conducted by the Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) estimates that Gujarat's kharif groundnut production is likely to fall by 20.5 per cent for the 2026-27 season. The assessment follows three days of field visits across major groundnut-producing districts in the state.

According to the survey findings, Gujarat's groundnut crop is projected at 33.30 lakh tonnes from an area of approximately 20.71 lakh hectares. The estimated yield stands at 1,608 kg per hectare for the 2026-27 kharif season. In comparison, the state recorded a production of 41.88 lakh tonnes from 22.02 lakh hectares with a yield of 1,902 kg per hectare during the 2025-26 season.

The SEA noted that the survey holds increased significance due to deficient rainfall reported in certain districts of Saurashtra, which has adversely impacted the crop in specific areas. The regional production in Saurashtra is estimated to decline by 19.8 per cent, bringing projected output to 25.53 lakh tonnes from an area of 15.78 lakh hectares, with an estimated yield of 1,618 kg per hectare. The region had previously produced 31.82 lakh tonnes in 2025-26.

District-level figures highlight mixed outcomes across Saurashtra. Rajkot and Jamnagar, which served as major groundnut producers in 2025-26, are expected to experience notable declines. Rajkot's crop production is estimated at 5.90 lakh tonnes, down from 6.60 lakh tonnes, while Jamnagar is projected to yield 3.26 lakh tonnes, compared to 5.63 lakh tonnes previously. Conversely, production is estimated to rise in Junagadh to 5.32 lakh tonnes from 4.44 lakh tonnes, and in Amreli to 3.38 lakh tonnes from 2.81 lakh tonnes.

The survey team, comprising over 20 members including Vinod Patel of SK Industry, Rajesh Patel of GGN Research, and BV Mehta, Executive Director of SEA, assessed crop size, quality, and seed varieties between October 23 and 25. The team gathered data through direct field visits and interactions with farmers, millers, traders, and brokers.

The data compiled by the association is intended to assist farmers, processors, millers, traders, and other stakeholders in evaluating the ground reality of the state's groundnut crop and understanding its potential implications for the broader edible oil sector.

"Data from ground-level agricultural surveys are critical for stakeholders across the supply chain, particularly in sectors tied to commodities and edible oils. When crop outputs face a notable decline due to regional weather variations, processors, traders, and millers must adjust their operational planning and market expectations early. Accurate production estimates help businesses manage supply chain adjustments and pricing strategies effectively in response to shifting agricultural yields." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes