New Delhi, Aug 24 (NVI) Export ban on wheat flour and related products has been lifted by the government with immediate effect.
The move will allow unrestricted exports of products such as maida, semolina (suji), whole wheat atta and resultant atta, ending restrictions that had been in place since 2022.
The amendment to the export policy was notified by the government and comes amid improved wheat availability, stronger domestic production and a more comfortable supply position in the country.
The move is expected to provide a fresh impetus to India’s processed wheat exports while creating new opportunities for flour millers and food processors targeting overseas markets.
The latest notification removes restrictions on the export of wheat flour and associated products that were introduced after India imposed curbs on wheat and wheat-based exports to safeguard domestic food security and control inflationary pressures.
The restrictions had been progressively eased over the past year through quota-based export permissions before being withdrawn entirely.
Industry stakeholders had repeatedly urged the government to relax the curbs, arguing that robust wheat harvests and adequate stock levels had improved the country’s supply outlook. The government had earlier permitted limited exports under authorisation mechanisms before deciding on a full removal of the ban.
The decision is expected to benefit flour mills, food processing companies and exporters that have faced restricted access to international markets for nearly four years. Industry bodies had maintained that allowing exports of value-added wheat products would help improve capacity utilisation, support farmer incomes and strengthen India’s position in global food trade.
Exporters are likely to focus on neighbouring and traditional markets where demand for Indian wheat products remains strong, particularly in South Asia, the Middle East and parts of Africa. The policy change could also enhance India’s competitiveness in processed agricultural exports.
While the government has now removed restrictions on wheat flour exports, previous policy decisions had consistently emphasised food security and price stability as primary considerations. Export controls were initially introduced following lower crop output and concerns over domestic availability after successive weather-related disruptions.
Improved harvests, higher stocks and easing supply concerns have since strengthened the government’s confidence in allowing greater participation in international markets. Recent measures, including the easing of stock limits and expanded export quotas, had already indicated a gradual shift towards a more liberal export regime. (NVI)
