New EU27 oilseeds estimates for the 2013/4 marketing year released by Copa-Cogeca last week paint a promising picture ahead of the EU-27 oilseed harvest, despite the adverse weather conditions suffered across Europe during 2013.

Production has risen by 5.8 percent year on year, Copa said. According to the European farm group, total EU-27 oilseed production reached 29.5 mt in 2013/4. OSR production is forecast to climb by 2.3 percent.

Commenting on increased oilseed rape production, Copa oilseeds working group Chair Gerard Tubery said "This shows the hardiness of the crop and its capability to survive adverse weather conditions. There should be a balanced market this year which is crucial for the livestock industry as it provides a good source of protein in feed."