Government lifts ban on wheat exports, cites farmers’ interests amid depressed local prices
India, the world's second-largest wheat producer, had banned wheat exports in May 2022 as part of measures to control rising domestic prices
The Indian government lifted the ban on wheat exports on August 24, 2026, citing the interests of farmers amid low domestic prices. The decision was made with immediate effect, according to notifications from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. The ban on wheat exports had been in place since May 2022 to curb rising domestic prices.
Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra stated that the ban was lifted in the interest of farmers, as the current depressed prices in the domestic market would be increased by allowing exports. He added that it will encourage good sowing in the upcoming rabi season, leading to better prices for farmers. Chopra also mentioned that there is sufficient stock of wheat in the country to meet the demand and prevent price hikes.
Out of the 60 lakh tonnes allowed earlier, 2.5 lakh tonnes have been shipped so far. India produced a record 120.65 million tonnes of wheat in the 2025-26 crop year, with the Food Corporation of India holding nearly 49 million tonnes in buffer stock. The all-India average retail price of wheat was ₹31.46 per kg, while wheat flour stood at ₹37.3 per kg. The prices remain flat compared to the previous year.
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