Maize Prices Likely to Ease as Rabi Crop Arrivals Pick Up

25-Apr-2025 07:59 PM

New Delhi, April 2025 – After a brief rise in maize prices due to reduced Kharif season supply, the arrival of the Rabi maize crop is gaining momentum, especially in key producing states like Bihar, potentially leading to a softening in prices.

Recent storms and rain in parts of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana slightly delayed harvesting, but did not significantly damage the crop. With clear and warm weather returning, rapid harvesting is expected in the coming weeks.

Despite steady demand from the animal feed, poultry, starch, and ethanol sectors, increased arrivals may create temporary pressure on prices, especially as small farmers rush to sell early stock.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for maize this season is set at Rs. 2,225 per quintal, and market prices are currently hovering slightly above that level.

If prices dip below the MSP, government procurement—mainly for ethanol production—may begin. Harvesting has already started in Khagaria,

Begusarai, Purnia, Madhepura, Mansi, Darbhanga, Samastipur, and Gogri-Jamalpur in Bihar. Prices had risen by Rs. 75–Rs 100 per quintal following adverse weather but may correct as supply improves.

Encouragingly, maize acreage has increased this year, and overall production is expected to be strong despite localized yield fluctuations.