May 5, 2026

Indian traders start wheat exports for first time in four years

Indian traders have begun exporting wheat for the first time in four years, as a bumper harvest combined with a rally in global prices and freight rates has made shipments commercially viable for buyers in Asia and the Middle East, Reuters reported.

Consumer goods conglomerate ITC has commenced loading 22,000 metric tonnes of wheat at the western port of Kandla for shipment to the United Arab Emirates, trade sources told Reuters.

India, which is expecting a record wheat crop this year, lifted its export ban to allow outbound shipments after restrictions first imposed in 2022. The curb was extended through 2023 and 2024 after extreme heat damaged crops and eroded domestic stocks, pushing prices to record highs and fuelling speculation that the country might be forced to turn to imports for the first time since 2017.

The resumption of exports marks a significant shift in India's wheat trade position, driven by improved production and the favourable economics of global freight and price conditions.

- ChiniMandi