Farm body opposes crude palm oil duty cut, cites grower losses

The farm organization has demanded that the government reinstate the previous import duty rate on crude palm oil, arguing that the recent cut from 16.5 per cent to 11 per cent will harm the livelihoods of oil palm, groundnut and sesame growers. Rythu Sangham contends that the duty reduction creates an uneven playing field for Indian farmers competing against cheaper imported supplies. The group has simultaneously demanded a minimum support price of ₹25,000 per tonne for oil palm bunches to ensure viable returns for cultivators. Andhra Pradesh, a significant oilseed-producing state, would face particular strain under the new tariff regime, the organization warned. The appeal comes as India continues to balance domestic agricultural interests with trade policy considerations and consumer prices for edible oils.