New Delhi, Aug. 13 -- Rising edible oil prices are emerging as a fresh risk to India's inflation outlook, with prices up 12-15% over the past year on higher global prices, freight costs and rupee depreciation. With little prospect of relief before November, when the new crop is expected to arrive in larger quantities, India's heavy dependence on imports leaves domestic prices exposed to further external cost pressures.

Prices are expected to stay elevated before the new crop offers relief, industry executives said, citing stronger demand during the upcoming festival and wedding seasons.

"Higher oilseed sowing will not have any immediate impact on edible oil prices because India imports nearly 60% of its consumption. Geopolitical develop...