August 20, 2007

India will issue tender to import wheat
 

India plans to issue a tender to import wheat shortly, a senior government official said Monday (Aug 20).

"We are exploring various options, including import shipments by containers," said the official, who did not wish to be named.

The official said the quantity has not been decided so far because the rising cost of freight is proving to be a deterrent.

India, with an adequate stock of wheat to last for nearly a year, was not expected to enter the market again. High international prices are also a deterrent.

A container carrying about 21 tonnes of wheat could result in a freight cost of US$2,000, or US$95/tonne, he said.