This week (Mar. 14-20), there is a further increase in operation rates among coastal mills. Rapeseed crush in 101 domestic mills surveyed by Cofeed has totaled 52,000 tonnes (imported rapeseed 52,000 tonnes and domestic rapeseed 0 tonne), up 8,000 tonnes or 18.18% from 44,000 tonnes last week. Meanwhile, the operation rate (capability utilization) goes up to 10.38% this week from 8.78% last week, of which it is 0% for domestic rapeseed; and it moves higher to 25.18% this week from 21.31% last week for imported rapeseed in coastal regions. The crush is expected to fall to 35,500 tonnes and 28,000 tonnes separately in the next two weeks as several mills will suspend production for a lack of rapeseed. Due to rapeseed shortages, the overall crush remains at a relatively low level at present. 

Fig. 1: Rapeseed Weekly Crush in China (Week 1, 2018-Week 12, 2020)

Fig. 2: Rapeseed Operating Rate in China (Week 1, 2016-Week 12, 2020)

Details for weekly crush by region are as follows: