Kozhikode: While palm oil imports remain restricted in Kerala ports, the vegetable oil continues to arrive in the state without any restrictions via roadways.

In 2007, the Government banned the import of palm group of oils through Kerala ports to protect coconut growers.

However, the palm oil from Mangaluru and Thoothukudi ports is brought via roadways to the state. The traders are now doubting the reasoning behind prolonging the ban in the state.

In FY 2023/24, a total of 864,000 tons of palm oil worth approximately Rs 12,000 crore was imported through Mangaluru Port. In December 2023 alone, the import touched 118,000 tons. 

For instance, a single company in the state is said to be importing 20,000 tons of palm oil per month. Traders are concerned about the impact of government regulations on revenue at ports in Kerala.

Furthermore, the ban also increased the cost of palm oil in the retail market. Recently, the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) extended the ban on palm oil imports through Kerala ports until further orders