Sunflower Oil Demand May Drop 10% in FY 2026-27 Amid Rising Prices

Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, the demand for refined sunflower oil in India is expected to decline by around 10% in the financial year 2026-27, according to Crisil Ratings. Supply disruptions and rising prices are pushing consumers to shift toward more affordable alternative edible oils. India consumes approximately 25 to 26 million tonnes of edible oil annually, with sunflower oil accounting for about 12–14% of the total. The country primarily imports this oil from Russia, Ukraine, and Argentina.

Before the tensions escalated, the average import price of crude sunflower oil stood at around $1,275 per tonne. It has now increased to between $1,420 and $1,440 per tonne. A weakening rupee against the dollar and higher transportation costs have further increased import expenses.

As a result, domestic prices have risen significantly. The retail price of sunflower oil, which was around ₹150 per litre in January 2026, has now increased to ₹170–175 per litre. Meanwhile, alternatives like rice bran oil and soybean oil are available at ₹10–20 lower per litre, encouraging consumers to switch.