Commodity markets entered 2026 in a state of cautious rebalancing. After several years of volatility driven by weather shocks, freight disruption and currency swings, buyers are prioritising supply security over the last few dollars of price. For importers and distributors, understanding the direction of travel is essential to timing purchases and locking in contracts.
Edible oils: structurally tight
Global vegetable-oil balances remain sensitive. Palm output growth has slowed while biofuel mandates absorb a growing share of soybean and rapeseed oil. Buyers who diversify across sunflower, soybean, palm and canola origins — rather than relying on a single source — are best insulated against seasonal spikes.
Metals: electrification demand
Copper continues to benefit from grid investment and electrification, keeping cathode and high-grade scrap in demand. Aluminium scrap grades track construction and automotive cycles. Recyclable non-ferrous grades remain a cost-effective feedstock for smelters worldwide.
Grains and pulses: normalising
Cereal and pulse flows have normalised as Black Sea and South Asian corridors stabilise. Pulses in particular see resilient demand from protein-conscious markets across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
What it means for buyers
The clear theme for 2026 is resilience. Multi-origin sourcing, transparent inspection and flexible Incoterms are no longer nice-to-haves — they are the foundation of a dependable supply chain. Talk to our export desk about forward contracts that smooth price and secure volume.
