New Delhi, Oct. 22 -- India is likely to import more edible oil next year despite an increase in early oilseed plantings, as inadequate rainfall clouds the production outlook for key crops such as soybean and groundnut, while consumption continues to rise, three trade executives said.

Imports are likely to rise about 3% to 17 million tonnes in the oil year starting November, according to industry estimates. That would follow estimated imports of 16.5 million tonnes this oil year, and 16.01 million tonnes in 2024-25, they said.

India annually consumes about 26 million tonnes of edible oil, which remains one of the largest agricultural import commodities for the country.

"India needs an additional 8-10 lakh tonnes of edible oil every yea...