India’s edible oil imports rose more than 13 per cent year-on-year during the first half of the 2025-26 oil year, while the country’s import bill surged 19 per cent due to higher global prices and increased buying of palm, soybean, and sunflower oils. The sharp rise in imports highlights continued dependence on overseas supplies to meet domestic demand.
Industry data showed that higher international edible oil prices, currency fluctuations, and strong domestic consumption contributed to the increase in import expenditure during the October–March period of the oil year. India remains the world’s largest importer of edible oils, sourcing major volumes from Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, and Ukraine.
Market participants said robust festive demand, lower domestic oilseed output, and tightening global supply conditions supported higher import volumes during the period. Analysts expect edible oil imports to remain elevated in the coming months as refiners and traders continue replenishing inventories amid volatile global commodity markets.
