The government of India has approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products, in a move aimed at stabilising domestic markets and ensuring better returns for farmers.
According to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, the decision was taken after a comprehensive review of current stock availability and price trends, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting farmers’ interests.
Private wheat stock during 2025-26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, nearly 32 LMT higher than the corresponding period last year, indicating a comfortable supply position.
Additionally, wheat availability in the central pool with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is projected at around 182 LMT as of April 1, 2026, ensuring that export permissions will not affect domestic food security requirements.
Wheat acreage during the Rabi 2026 season has increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares, compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year, reflecting strong farmer confidence supported by assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) and procurement mechanisms.
The government stated that higher stock availability, softening prices, and expectations of increased production necessitated the export decision to prevent distress sales during peak arrivals. The move is expected to stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and strengthen farmers’ incomes while maintaining national food security.
In a related development, the government has also approved an additional export of 5 LMT of sugar for the ongoing Sugar Season 2025–26. Earlier, 15 LMT of sugar exports had been permitted through an order issued on November 14, 2025.
As per data provided by sugar mills, about 1.97 LMT of sugar had been exported as of January 31, 2026, while approximately 2.72 LMT had been contracted for export.
The additional 5 LMT export quota will be allocated on a pro-rata basis among willing sugar mills. Mills must export at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity by June 30, 2026, and submit their willingness within 15 days from the issuance of the order. The allocated export quota cannot be swapped or exchanged between mills.
The government said the decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help manage surplus sugar availability in the country.