A global overview of vegetable oils, with reference to biodiesel

The main objectives of this study are: i) to present a global overview of the main vegetable oils (palm, soybean, rapeseed, sunflower), ii) identify the main market trends; iii) identify the major players of the vegetable oil markets (exporters and importers), iv) assess the role of biodiesel in the vegetable oil markets; v) identify major policy developments and possible future trends. This study is not intended as a detailed analysis; its aim is to present an overall view of the main vegetable oil issues. Social, economic, environmental and sustainability issues are not covered in the first phase of this report. Environmental and sustainability issues are mentioned in passing.