Bengaluru: India has ordered cooking oil makers and importers to sell their products only in a fixed set of pack sizes, a move the government said on Saturday would help shoppers compare prices across brands more easily.The order targets a common pricing tactic in the world's most populous nation, where oils sold in odd, non-standard sizes leave buyers unable to tell which brand offers the best value for a kitchen staple.Read more: Consumer sector beats expectations but faces commodity crunch from Q2, warns BofA SecuritiesHere are the details:Packaging will be limited to nine standard sizes ranging from 200 millilitres to 20 litres, replacing the varied volumes currently available.The rules apply to both domestically produced and imported edible oils, and cover major varieties including palm, soybean, sunflower, mustard and groundnut.Companies have been given three months to switch to the new sizes.AgenciesCooking Oil Packages that declare their contents by volume must also state the equivalent weight, a step the government said would further aid price comparison.Containers smaller than 200 millilitres and minor edible oils have been exempted to keep affordable small packs on shelves.Read more: RBI says 4% inflation target not in abeyance; future rate action tied to price persistenceThe decision followed consultations with industry associations representing nearly 90% of India's edible oil sector, the Department of Consumer Affairs said.
India sets standard pack sizes for cooking oils to help shoppers compare prices
India has ordered cooking oil makers and importers to use only nine standard pack sizes. This move aims to help shoppers easily compare prices across different brands. The new rules cover major edible oils and apply to both domestic and imported products. Companies have three months to implement the changes. This decision follows discussions with industry representatives.
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