Why India’s imports of 3 agri-commodities may touch a new high this year
India has experienced a significant increase in imports of vegetable oils and raw cotton in 2025-26, with expectations for even higher amounts due to the effects of El Niño. The lack of rainfall has caused concerns about pest infestations and a decrease in sown area for kharif crops. Though there is a surplus of rice and wheat, the high prices of vegetable oils used for biofuel are a concern.