Has the Centre Approved Exports of 25 Lakh Metric Tonnes of Wheat and 5 LMT of Sugar?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) In a significant move aimed at supporting farmers and stabilizing domestic markets, the Centre has granted approval for the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an extra 5 LMT of wheat products.
A statement from the Consumer Affairs Ministry revealed that private entities hold about 75 LMT of wheat stock for the period of 2025–26, which is a substantial 32 LMT increase from the same timeframe last year.
"This considerable year-on-year growth suggests a stable supply in the country. Furthermore, by April 1, 2026, the total wheat in the central pool, managed by FCI, is expected to be around 182 LMT, thereby ensuring that export permissions will not compromise domestic food security," the statement elaborated.
Additionally, the wheat acreage for Rabi 2026 has risen to approximately 334.17 lakh hectares, compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.
This shows a robust confidence among farmers in wheat cultivation, bolstered by assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) and procurement systems, indicating the potential for another abundant harvest, the official statement noted.
Permitting the export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT of wheat products will aid in stabilizing domestic prices, enhancing market liquidity, facilitating efficient stock rotation, and bolstering farmers’ incomes while safeguarding national food security.
In a related effort to support sugar exports, the government has decided to authorize an additional 5 LMT of sugar exports to willing mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.
Previously, the government had approved the export of 15 LMT of sugar in the same season, a measure expected to boost sugar exports and assist in managing the surplus sugar supply in the nation.
Data indicates that only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026. Moreover, around 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills thus far.
The ministry mentioned that the additional 5 LMT export quota would be available to willing sugar mills, contingent upon the condition that at least 70 percent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.