Top Castor Oil Seed Producing Countries

Castor oil seed, derived from the castor bean plant (*Ricinus communis*), is primarily farmed in India, which accounts for over 80% of global production, followed by smaller contributions from countries such as China, Brazil, and Mozambique. The cultivation of castor oil seed has ancient roots, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt, where castor oil was used for medicinal and lamp-lighting purposes. Over centuries, the plant spread across Africa, the Mediterranean, and eventually to the Americas and Asia through trade and colonial expansion. In the 20th century, India emerged as the leading producer due to its favorable climate, established agricultural practices, and the crop's adaptability to arid regions. Today, castor oil seed farming is crucial for the global production of castor oil, which is valued for its applications in lubricants, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial products.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat