India March edible oil imports seen up 33 pct.

NEW DELHI, April 8 (Reuters) - India's edible oil imports are expected to rise by a third in March from a year ago because of low prices, further swelling stocks built with heavy purchases in recent months, leading traders and importers said.

The average of estimates from 14 leading traders across India showed imports in March were likely to rise to 561,600 tonnes, with figures ranging from 500,000 tonnes to 650,000 tonnes.

Trade data for March imports is expected to be released in a week.

For a graphic on imports in previous months and March's forecast, click: here

India, a leading importer of edible oils, imported 87 percent more edible oils in January and 69 percent more in February, taking advantage of low international prices and on expectations of a higher import duty.