<p>Attacks on Black Sea port infrastructure linked to the Russia–Ukraine conflict are disrupting sunflower oil shipments bound for India, creating fresh challenges for edible-oil importers. The disruption has affected cargo availability and shipping schedules at a time when Indian buyers are preparing for stronger seasonal demand.</p><p>A 20,000-tonne shipment of Russian sunflower oil destined for India was cancelled after the supplier was unable to deliver the cargo because of damage to port infrastructure. Around 60,000 tonnes of additional shipments have also faced delays, according to industry representatives and trade sources.</p><p>The disruption is significant because Russia is one of India’s major sunflower oil suppliers. Importers depend on consistent maritime transport and port operations to maintain supply, and interruptions can quickly affect procurement schedules, inventory planning and the cost of bringing commodities into the country.</p><p>Russian suppliers are reportedly considering alternative export routes through Baltic Sea ports, including St Petersburg and Ust-Luga. However, these routes can involve higher freight costs and approximately ten additional days of voyage time compared with established Black Sea shipment patterns, increasing the logistical burden on exporters and buyers.</p><p>India requires roughly 250,000 tonnes of sunflower oil imports each month, while October arrivals could fall to around 160,000 tonnes because of loading and shipping constraints affecting Russia and Ukraine. The reduction comes after sunflower oil inventories were already weakened by lower imports in previous months.</p><p>To compensate for the supply gap, Indian buyers have increased purchases of crude palm oil. Trade sources reported that importers bought approximately 150,000 tonnes of crude palm oil over three days for delivery in November and December, demonstrating how disruptions in one commodity market can redirect demand towards alternative products.</p><p>The shift could have wider consequences for international vegetable-oil markets. Higher Indian demand may support palm oil prices and influence inventory levels in major producing countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia. For Indian importers, however, the economics of switching oils will depend on international prices, freight expenses, availability and domestic demand.</p><p>The latest disruption highlights the close relationship between geopolitical security, port infrastructure and food supply chains. Importers may need to diversify suppliers, monitor alternative shipping routes and maintain more flexible procurement plans to reduce exposure to future interruptions. The duration of the port disruptions and the pace at which delayed cargoes can be rescheduled will be important factors shaping India’s edible-oil supply outlook.</p>