October 19, 2012

Malaysia seeks regular wheat supply from India to improve bilateral trade

The Malaysian government sought regular supply of wheat from India on Thursday (Oct 18), in hopes of enhancing bilateral trade.

India lifted ban on wheat exports from September 2011 following record bumper production and procurement.

"The way Iran wants to buy wheat from India on long-term basis, the Malaysian government is also interested to have long-term contract with India for wheat," Food Minister K V Thomas told reporters after meeting the visiting Malaysian Agriculture Minister Datuk Seri Noh Bin Omar, here.

Some small quantity of wheat is being exported through private trade to the Southeast Asian country. However, Malaysia wants long-term contract with India for supply of Indian wheat through diplomatic channel, he said.

Thomas said a decision on this issue would be taken after the Malaysian government sends a formal proposal.

"We have asked them to send a formal proposal and also a technical team to India to check the quality of our grain," the minister said.

Other issues related to palm oil were also discussed during the meeting, he added.

Asked about progress made in Iran export deal, Thomas said, "Some issues still remain unresolved at their end. They have to get back."

In the face of surplus stocks, India is now scouting for global wheat market. Over 1.5 million tonnes wheat via private trade has already been exported since September 2011.

As of October 1, the government godown has a stock of 66.52 million tonnes, against 51.78 million tonnes a year ago.