India Sunflower Oil Shipments Hit by War Disruptions

Russian sunflower oil shipments to India are facing cancellations and delays as the Russia-Ukraine war disrupts Black Sea port operations. A 20,000-tonne shipment was reportedly cancelled after damage to port infrastructure, while around 60,000 tonnes of additional cargoes have been delayed.

Russian suppliers are now looking at Baltic Sea ports, including St Petersburg and Ust-Luga, to move sunflower oil to India. However, the alternative route could increase freight costs and add around 10 days to the voyage, putting further pressure on supplies.

India, which relies heavily on imports to meet its sunflower oil demand, could receive only around 160,000 tonnes in October against its usual requirement of about 250,000 tonnes. With stocks tightening ahead of the festival season, Indian buyers are increasing palm oil purchases, including 150,000 tonnes bought for November and December delivery.

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