India’s edible oil imports rose to 1.53 million metric tons in July 2025, marking a 1.5 percent month-on-month increase and the highest volume recorded in eight months, according to dealer estimates. The uptick was driven primarily by a sharp rise in soyoil imports, which reached a three-year high, even as palm oil and sunflower oil volumes declined.
This newsletter provides a detailed breakdown of the latest import trends, market dynamics, and implications for consumers and industry stakeholders.
Key Highlights from July 2025
- Total edible oil imports rose 1.5 percent month-on-month to 1.53 million metric tons
- Soyoil imports surged to 495,000 metric tons, the highest in three years
- Palm oil imports fell to 858,000 metric tons, reflecting weaker demand
- Sunflower oil imports declined 7 percent month-on-month to 201,000 metric tons
- The overall rise in imports was driven by seasonal demand and price differentials
Soyoil Leads the Surge
India’s soyoil imports in July jumped significantly to 495,000 metric tons, a level not seen in the past three years. This surge was attributed to:
1. Competitive pricing in global markets
2. Strong demand from food processing units and household consumers
3. Lower domestic availability due to reduced soybean crushing
The increase in soyoil imports helped offset declines in other oil categories, contributing to the overall rise in edible oil volumes.
Palm Oil Imports Decline
Palm oil, traditionally the largest component of India’s edible oil basket, saw a month-on-month decline in July, falling to 858,000 metric tons. This drop was influenced by:
1. Higher international prices due to supply disruptions in Southeast Asia
2. Reduced demand from industrial users amid inventory buildup
3. Preference shift toward lighter oils like sunflower and soyoil
Despite the decline, palm oil remains a critical part of India’s import mix, especially for bulk consumption and processed foods.
Sunflower Oil Sees Modest Dip
Sunflower oil imports fell 7 percent month-on-month to 201,000 metric tons. The decline was driven by:
1. Price volatility in Black Sea export markets
2. Substitution by cheaper alternatives like soyoil
3. Lower retail demand in urban centers
However, sunflower oil continues to hold appeal among health-conscious consumers, and volumes are expected to stabilize in the coming months.
Market Dynamics and Seasonal Factors
The overall rise in edible oil imports reflects seasonal stocking ahead of festive demand, particularly in the food and hospitality sectors. Traders also cited favorable import margins and currency stability as contributing factors.
1. Refiners increased purchases to replenish inventories
2. Retailers prepared for higher footfall during upcoming festivals
3. Importers took advantage of lower freight rates and improved port logistics
Industry Implications and Policy Outlook
The import trends have several implications for the edible oil industry and policymakers:
- Price stability may improve in the short term due to higher availability
- Domestic oilseed producers may face pressure from cheaper imports
- The government may revisit import duties and trade policies to protect local farmers
The Solvent Extractors’ Association has previously urged the government to resume futures trading in edible oils to help stabilize prices and support farmers.
Conclusion: A Mixed Import Landscape with Strategic Shifts
India’s July edible oil import data reveals a nuanced picture—while overall volumes rose to an eight-month high, the composition of imports is shifting. Soyoil’s resurgence and palm oil’s decline reflect changing consumer preferences, global price movements, and strategic buying by refiners. As the festive season approaches, market participants will closely monitor pricing trends and policy signals to navigate the evolving landscape.
Sources: Economic Times, Solvent Extractors’ Association, Reuters India, Business Standard
