Sunflower oil prices continue to rise in India

According to SEA data, sunflower oil on a CIF Mumbai basis shows steady growth weekly, monthly, and annually. The difference between CIF Mumbai and FOB Black Sea prices is driven by freight, insurance, and port charges, in line with established market practices. This supports demand for Ukrainian sunflower oil, which remains competitive for Indian importers.

On India’s domestic market, refined sunflower oil continues to increase in price. Weekly growth is moderate, while monthly and annual figures are significantly higher. Locally produced oil, using expeller or cold-press methods, maintains a stable price with slight growth. Refined sunflower oil also remains more expensive than soybean and rapeseed oil, reflecting sustained consumer demand.

Sunflower seeds in India maintain stable prices over the month with moderate annual growth. Meanwhile, soybean seeds show moderate weekly and monthly increases, and rapeseed seeds demonstrate accelerated weekly growth with moderate monthly and yearly gains. This trend stimulates processing and maintains India’s import dependence on sunflower oil.

Imports of sunflower oil in February fell compared to January due to the high spread between sunflower and palm oils, encouraging partial substitution with the cheaper palm oil. However, supplies of sunflower oil to India are expected to recover in March–April, supporting export prices of Ukrainian products. The spread between CIF Mumbai and local prices creates a margin for importers and processors, ensuring profitable purchases.

The forecast for April 2026 expects sunflower oil prices to remain near current levels. Domestic prices of refined oil will continue moderate growth driven by steady consumer demand, and exports of Ukrainian sunflower oil will follow the recovery of Indian imports.

Tags: sunflower oil, prices, India