Edible oil prices in Odisha have risen sharply over the past two months, with traders pointing to global factors and changing consumer demand as key drivers.
According to the Cuttack Chamber of Commerce General Secretary, Prafulla Kumar Chhatoi, the hike began in January and has continued steadily. Prices of edible oils have gone up by Rs 20 to Rs 25 per litre during this period.
Chhatoi explained that refined oil and palm oil have seen the most noticeable increases, while mustard oil has remained relatively stable. He noted that the ongoing Middle East conflict has disrupted imports, reducing supply and pushing prices higher.
At the same time, many consumers are buying larger quantities of oil out of fear of further price hikes. This surge in demand, combined with limited supply, has intensified the upward trend in Odisha’s markets.
