Palm Oil Continues to Enter Kerala Despite Import Ban through Ports

Despite an existing ban on palm oil imports through Kerala ports, the vegetable oil continues to enter the state without restrictions via roadways. The ban, implemented in 2007, aimed to protect coconut growers by restricting the import of palm group oils through Kerala ports. However, traders highlight that palm oil from Mangaluru and Thoothukudi ports is still making its way into the state through road transportation. In the fiscal year 2023/24, Mangaluru Port alone witnessed the import of 864,000 tons of palm oil, valued at around Rs 12,000 crore. Traders express concerns about the prolonged ban affecting revenue at Kerala ports and contributing to increased retail prices of palm oil. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) recently extended the ban until further orders.”