10% Decline in Edible Oil Imports in March

13-Apr-2026 01:20 PM

Mumbai. Data compiled by a leading industry body—the Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA)—reveals that during March 2026, the country imported approximately 1.173 million tonnes of edible oils, a figure 10% lower than the 1.292 million tonnes imported in February 2026.

However, compared to March 2025, the gross import of vegetable oils during March 2026 rose by 11% from 1.073 million tonnes to reach 1.197 million tonnes; this total comprised 1.173 million tonnes of edible oils and 14,000 tonnes of non-edible oils.

According to the Association's latest monthly report, during the first five months of the current marketing season—spanning from November 2025 to March 2026—the total import of vegetable oils (both edible and non-edible) into the country surged to over 6.572 million tonnes. This represents an 8% increase compared to the 6.097 million tonnes imported during the corresponding period of the 2024-25 season.

According to industry analysts, the decline in edible oil imports during March was attributable to several factors. These include elevated prices in the international market, a significantly weak exchange rate for the rupee against the dollar, and an improvement in the supply and availability of edible oils within the domestic market. March witnessed a robust influx and crushing of mustard seeds, leading to a substantial increase in the production of mustard oil and oil cake.

Prior to this, between December and February, the country had experienced heavy imports of edible oils, as importers sought to build up substantial stocks amidst apprehensions regarding potential supply disruptions and persistently high prices in the near future. India primarily imports palm oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil from various countries.