Flour Export Likely to Be Considered Over Wheat

15-Jul-2025 04:06 PM

New Delhi. A senior government official has indicated that despite record production and surplus stock, the ban on wheat export is unlikely to be lifted soon. However, the export of wheat flour may be considered based on demand.

It is worth noting that the government had imposed a ban on the commercial export of wheat in May 2022 following a sharp rise in domestic prices.

This was followed by a ban on wheat-based products like flour, maida, semolina, and bran in August of the same year. These restrictions were implemented to ensure domestic availability and control prices.

According to sources, the government will thoroughly assess the domestic demand-supply situation before taking any decision. But commercial wheat exports remain unlikely in the near term. If supply conditions improve and prices remain stable, the government may permit the export of more flour.

Unlike rice, where central stocks are abundant and market availability is strong, wheat stocks are only slightly above demand. The government estimates wheat production to reach an all-time high of 1170 lakh tonnes in the 2024–25 Rabi season. Procurement also increased to 301 lakh tonnes from 266 lakh tonnes last year, although it still fell short of the 333 lakh tonne target.

Given the current conditions, officials believe allowing flour exports, instead of wheat, would be a more viable option.