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Edible Oil Imports Surge 13% Amidst Price Shifts
12 Jun
Summary
- Edible oil imports rose 13.35% to 92.17 lakh tonnes in Nov-May.
- Higher crude soybean oil imports boosted overall edible oil figures.
- Rupee depreciation poses a concern for Indian edible oil importers.
India's edible oil imports experienced a notable increase of 13.35% during the first seven months of the 2025-26 oil year, totaling 92.17 lakh tonnes compared to 81.31 lakh tonnes in the prior year. This growth was primarily fueled by a rise in crude soybean oil imports, especially in May 2026, as its price became more competitive against palm oil.
Overall, palm oil and sunflower oil imports also increased in this period. However, cumulative soybean oil imports declined slightly year-on-year. The government's policy of higher duty differentials for refined oils has encouraged crude palm oil imports, supporting domestic refining.
Import prices for crude palm oil, RBD palmolein, soybean oil, and sunflower oil saw substantial increases of up to 23% in May 2026 compared to the previous year. The recent depreciation of the rupee by over 12% is a significant concern for Indian importers and refiners.
Notably, refined oil imports from Nepal, benefiting from nil import duty under SAFTA, remained significant. As of June 1, 2026, domestic edible oil stocks stood at 22.13 lakh tonnes.
