Edible Oil Imports Estimated to Decline to 1.18 Million Tonnes in March

02-Apr-2026 08:30 PM

Mumbai. A leading industry analyst has estimated that the total import of edible oils in March 2026 will amount to 1.18 million tonnes—a figure that is 9 percent lower than the imports in February but 13 percent higher than those in March 2025.

Imports of palm oil and soybean oil are expected to decline in March compared to February, as global market prices for these commodities remained elevated and firm. Furthermore, some import contracts for soybean oil were reportedly cancelled by Indian refiners.

The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA)—a leading organization representing the domestic vegetable oil industry and trade sector—is expected to release its monthly report in mid-April, which will provide comprehensive details regarding edible oil imports during the month of March. The full picture will become clear only after the release of this report.

Preliminary indications suggest that significant attention was focused on the procurement of edible oils during March. Consequently, domestic prices for edible oils witnessed an upward trend. Additionally, rising shipment charges and the depreciation of the Rupee led to an increase in import costs.