Sunflower Oil Imports to India Decreased by 23% in January 2026
In January 2026, India significantly altered the structure of its vegetable oil imports. Against the backdrop of a substantial increase in palm oil purchases, which rose by 51%, the country reduced its imports of sunflower and soybean oil, impacting the overall volume of edible oil imports.
This is reported by AgroReview
Reduction in Sunflower and Soybean Oil Imports
As of January, sunflower oil imports to India decreased by 23%, totaling 269 thousand tons. Meanwhile, palm oil supplies reached a four-month high of 766 thousand tons. The main reason for this trend was the increased demand for the more affordable palm oil.
Additionally, soybean oil imports fell by 45% to a 19-month low of 280 thousand tons. The total volume of vegetable oils imported into India decreased by 3.5%, amounting to 1.32 million tons. This occurred despite record levels of palm oil purchases.
Impact of Pricing Policy and Market Outlook
The primary factor behind the change in import structure was the attractive prices of palm oil, which prompted Indian importers to redirect their purchases. This trend is expected to support palm oil market prices in Malaysia and Indonesia and contribute to a reduction in stocks in these countries.
The decrease in demand from India for sunflower and soybean oil may influence the price dynamics of soybean oil futures on American exchanges.
“According to OleoScope, the price of sunflower oil CIF Mumbai, India, as of 02.02.2026 for February delivery was $1407.93/ton, which is $4.97/ton higher than the previous value from 30.01.2026. The price of palm oil (FOB Malaysia) was $1092.01/ton, which is $22.39/ton lower than the previous value from 29.01.2026 ($1114.40/ton).”
Thus, changes in the Indian vegetable oil market affect both global prices and the strategic decisions of key exporters.