Centre Approves Export of 2.5 Million Tonnes of Wheat and Sugar
The Central Government has approved the export of 2.5 million tonnes of wheat along with wheat products and sugar, citing strong stock levels and stable domestic supply.
Prasanth Subramani
The Central Government on Friday approved the export of 2.5 million tonnes of wheat. In addition, permission has been granted to export 0.5 million tonnes each of wheat-based products and sugar.
According to a statement issued by the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, the decision was taken after considering the availability of wheat stocks in the country, prevailing price conditions, and the benefits that farmers would receive from allowing exports.
Currently, private companies hold wheat stocks of around 7.5 million tonnes, which is 3.2 million tonnes higher compared to last year. This ensures that there will be no disruption in wheat supply within the country.
It is estimated that by April 1, 2026, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) will hold wheat stocks of about 18.2 million tonnes. Therefore, the export approval is not expected to affect domestic food security.
The wheat cultivation area during the 2026 Rabi season has expanded to 33.417 million hectares, compared to 32.804 million hectares last year. Due to assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) and effective procurement measures, farmers have increased wheat cultivation, which is expected to further boost wheat production in the country.
Regarding sugar, the government has approved the export of 0.5 million tonnes for the 2025-26 season based on requests from sugar mills. Earlier, in November 2025, permission was granted to export 1.5 million tonnes of sugar, the ministry added.
