The Union government is set to introduce a new regulatory framework for vegetable oil products aimed at modernizing standards, enhancing transparency, and leveraging technology, Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra announced on Thursday.
Speaking on the sidelines of a round-table meeting organized by the Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA), Chopra said the upcoming 2025 Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability Regulation Order will replace the existing 2011 norms. “The associations have been consulted. It’s in the final stages now and will likely be notified by next week,” he added.
The announcement came during an address by Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi, who urged the edible oil industry to promptly pass on the benefits of recent duty reductions on crude edible oils to consumers by lowering retail prices.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to boosting domestic production and self-sufficiency in edible oils, Joshi called on IVPA members to focus on value addition, innovation, and efficiency in processing and refining. He encouraged collaboration with Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs) to promote precision agriculture, AI-driven crop management, sustainable practices, and the adoption of high-yield oilseed varieties.
“India currently imports approximately 56% of its edible oil requirements, making it one of the world’s largest consumers and importers of vegetable oils,” Joshi said. “But with strategic policy interventions, agri-tech investments, and public-private partnerships, India can enhance domestic capabilities while remaining globally competitive.”
The Minister also shared that India’s oilseed production rose by 44% over the past decade—from 275 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) in 2014-15 to 397 LMT in 2023-24—while yield improved by 22%, reaching 1,314 kg per hectare. In FY 2023-24, India exported 5.44 million tonnes of oil meals, oilseeds, and minor oils, valued at ₹29,587 crore, he added.
The upcoming regulation order is expected to formalize new compliance mechanisms, quality benchmarks, and digital tracking systems, reflecting the evolving needs of India’s edible oil ecosystem and its consumers.