Argentina becomes India’s top edible oil supplier as packaging concerns grow at home
Stronger trade ties boost supply, but local market issues raise fresh concerns for consumers.
ARGENTINA/INDIA – Argentina has become India’s top supplier of edible oils, a move that shows closer trade ties between the two countries and a shared focus on food supply and energy needs.
Speaking at a diplomatic meeting in Hyderabad, Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, said the two economies work well together. “Argentina and India enjoy a very elevated degree of complementarity,” he said. He also noted that India now ranks as Argentina’s sixth-largest trade partner, with ties growing since both countries agreed on a strategic partnership in 2019.
India continues to depend on imports to meet its edible oil demand. Argentina plays a key role as a major exporter of these products. The country also seeks to expand its role beyond agriculture by supporting India’s energy needs and supply of key minerals.
Caucino said India’s growing global role has made it an important partner for many countries. Argentina plans to deepen cooperation across sectors as both sides look to build stable supply chains and long-term trade links.
At the same time, industry players in India have raised concerns about how edible oils reach consumers. The Soybean Processors Association of India has asked the government to bring back standard pack sizes, saying the current system confuses buyers.
Before January 2023, companies sold edible oils in fixed sizes such as 250 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre, and 5 litres. These sizes made it easy for shoppers to compare prices. After the government removed these rules, companies introduced many different pack sizes, which now make price checks harder.
“The outcome has been contrary to the intent,” the association said. It added that many buyers struggle to understand unit pricing, even though rules require companies to show the price per gram or millilitre.
Five industry groups have joined the call for action. They want the government to either restore standard sizes or make sure companies clearly display unit prices. They argue that clear pricing helps protect consumers and supports fair competition.
These concerns come as edible oils remain a key part of daily food use in India. While imports from countries like Argentina help meet demand, local market clarity still shapes how consumers make choices.
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