The Government of India has approved export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat, 5 lakh tonnes of wheat products and additional 5 lakh tonnes of sugar to stabilize domestic prices and manage surplus stocks.
After almost four years, the Central Government has lifted the ban on wheat export. The government has approved the export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat. Along with this, additional 5 lakh tonnes of wheat products have been approved to supplement the 5 lakh tonnes authorized a few days ago. Apart from wheat, export of additional 5 lakh tonnes of sugar has also been approved.
In May 2022, the central government banned wheat exports to curb rising prices due to falling production. As well as the ban, stock limits were periodically imposed on wheat storage, although these were recently lifted.
In view of the high stock availability, softening prices, expected higher production and the need to prevent distress selling during peak arrivals, the Government’s decision to allow export of 25 lakh tonnes of wheat and 5 lakh tonnes of wheat products will help stabilize domestic prices and ensure efficient stock rotation.
cozy wheat stock
According to official data, the availability of wheat stocks with private entities during 2025-26 is about 75 lakh tonnes, which is about 32 lakh tonnes more than the corresponding period last year, indicating a comfortable supply situation.
By April 1, 2026, the total wheat availability in the central pool managed by the Food Corporation of India is estimated to be about 182 lakh tonnes. The government said this stock level ensures that export permissions will not impact domestic food security needs.
More area indicates stronger production
The area under wheat in the Rabi 2026 season has increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to last year’s 328.04 lakh hectares. The increase in area reflects strong farmer confidence, supported by the assured minimum support price procurement mechanism, and points to the possibility of another strong crop. The MSP for the upcoming Rabi marketing season is Rs 2585 per quintal.
additional sugar export quota
Along with wheat exports, the government has also allowed export of additional 5 lakh tonnes of sugar during the current sugar season 2025-26. Earlier, through an order issued on November 14, 2025, permission was given to export 15 lakh tonnes of sugar.
According to data provided by sugar mills, about 1.97 lakh tonnes of sugar was exported till January 31, 2026, while contracts for export of about 2.72 lakh tonnes were made.
An additional 5 lakh tonne export quota will be allocated on a proportionate basis among willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity will be exported by June 30, 2026. Mills have to submit their willingness within 15 days of the issue of the order, and the allotted quota cannot be swapped or exchanged.
The government said the decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and improve liquidity for mills and ensure timely payments to sugarcane farmers as well as help manage surplus availability in the domestic market.
