Wheat Export Ban to Continue Until Domestic Supplies Are Sufficient: Says FCI Chairman

On Tuesday, the government said the export ban on wheat will continue as long as the country does not feel comfortable with the domestic supplies to meet the food security needs.

State-owned Food Corporation of India (FCI) Chairman and Managing Director Ashok K Meena addressing a press conference said wheat production has not been affected due to unseasonal rains. This year, even after rains, the total wheat output will be at a record 112 million tonnes.

He mentioned that the government procurement of fresh wheat crop has kicked off, and on Monday, about 10,727 tonnes was purchased at minimum support price (MSP) in Madhya Pradesh.

In May 2022, India which is the world's second-largest wheat-producing country banned wheat exports with instant effect as a part of measures to curb the increasing domestic prices.

Meena said, "As far as the government is concerned for assuring the food security of the common man, no export of wheat will be allowed. So, the export ban on wheat will continue as long as the country does not feel comfortable with supplies.”

For both government procurement and general consumption, estimated higher wheat production this year will ensure sufficient supplies in the Indian market, he added. As per the second estimate of the agriculture ministry, the government has predicted a record wheat production of 112.18 million tonnes in the 2023-24 crop year (July-June).

Meena said that the agriculture ministry has estimated record wheat production, taking into account the weather fluctuations.

He added, "Rains are a matter of concern as they impact the quality of the grains. The accompanying factor of rain is that the temperature comes down. Lowered temperatures are good for wheat crops for their full maturity. Thus, the estimated quantity of wheat production is likely to be achieved.”