India's Edible Oil Market Faces Volatility in MY 2026/27
India's edible oil market is expected to remain volatile in the upcoming MY 2026/27 due to weather risks, domestic oilseed production prospects, and high dependence on imports. The country's reliance on external supplies will continue, with palm, soybean, and sunflower oils being the main components of these imports.
According to data from the Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA), India imported 13.88 million tons of vegetable oils between November 2025 and August 2026, representing a 4% increase compared to the same period in the previous season.
The outlook for oilseed crop production remains mixed, with area planted standing at about 19.4 million hectares as of September 11, close to last year's levels. However, deficient and uneven monsoon rainfall poses risks to oilseed yields.
India's import mix in MY 2026/27 will likely be influenced by the price advantage between major vegetable oils. Palm oil remains a core component of supplies, while soybean and sunflower oils compete for demand depending on global prices, availability, and price differentials.