Imports of Edible Oils to be Influenced by Multiple Factors

27-Apr-2026 08:13 PM

Kyiv. Bhavna Shah, Vice President of a leading organization—the Indian Vegetable Oil Producers Association (IVPA)—has stated that the Indian edible oil sector stands at a critical juncture where various factors, such as climatic shocks, geopolitical tensions, and energy market crises, could significantly impact it.

Rather than focusing solely on prices, edible oil importers will likely prioritize identifying countries from which supplies can be secured with ease.

Addressing a conference held in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, she noted that three specific factors—a weak monsoon, high crude oil prices, and the rising global usage of biofuels—could complicate the supply and availability of edible oils.

According to the Vice President, India's position is expected to remain largely stable, as the domestic industry ensures a robust supply of edible oils. Refiners import these oils with considerable prudence, and the government remains prepared to implement policy interventions whenever necessary.

However, she also cautioned that the changing global landscape could lead to some upward movement in edible oil prices. India possesses the capacity to absorb surplus stocks of edible oils.

The economics of the edible oil sector should be viewed through the lens of 'Crude, Feed, and Fuel.' Edible oil imports are projected to range between 15 and 17 million tonnes. Compared to the previous year, edible oil imports witnessed an 11 percent increase during the period leading up to March 2026.