Cuttack, Mar 9: Prices of edible oils have witnessed a significant rise in Odisha over the past two months, with traders pointing to global factors and shifting market demand as key drivers.

Prafulla Kumar Chhatoi, General Secretary of the Cuttack Chamber of Commerce, said the price increase began in January and has continued steadily, with edible oils rising by approximately ₹20 to ₹25 per litre during this period.

The rise has been particularly noticeable for refined and palm oils, while mustard oil has not experienced a comparable increase.

Chhatoi attributed the surge to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted edible oil imports. Additionally, fears of further price hikes have led many consumers to purchase larger quantities, intensifying demand amid limited supply and pushing prices higher in the market.