Edible oil prices rise by Rs 10 per litre in Cuttack, consumers express concern

Prices of edible oil have increased in Odisha's Cuttack over the past few days, leading to concern among consumers and traders. The price of refined edible oil has gone up by Rs 10 per litre, while palm oil has also recorded a price rise in the local market.

Traders said the increase has been observed within the last three to four days at Malgodown, one of the major wholesale markets in the city. They attributed the price rise to disruptions in the supply of crude edible oil linked to the ongoing war situation in the Middle East.

Price Rise in Local Market

At Malgodown in Cuttack, refined oil, which was earlier being sold at Rs 160 per litre, has now increased to Rs 170 per litre within the last three to four days.

Similarly, the price of palm oil has also witnessed an increase of Rs 5 per litre. The price, which earlier stood at Rs 102 per litre, has now risen to Rs 107 per litre.

Traders said the recent increase in prices has started affecting retail markets, raising concerns among consumers who rely on edible oil for daily household use.

Supply Disruptions Cited

According to traders, the rise in prices is linked to supply disruptions caused by the ongoing war situation in the Middle East. The conflict has reportedly affected the timely arrival of ships carrying crude edible oil.

India imports refined oil from countries such as Russia and Ukraine, while crude palm oil is imported from countries including Malaysia and Indonesia.

Traders said delays in shipments and logistical challenges have contributed to the recent price increase in the wholesale market.

Traders Seek Monitoring

Members of the traders’ association have also raised concerns about the possibility of black marketing if the supply situation does not stabilise.

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Traders Association member Sudhakar Panda said, “The oil that is supposed to arrive is getting delayed, and a transportation problem has emerged due to the war situation. I request the government to keep a close eye on the situation to avoid any black marketing.”