Grain Chronicle Grain Chronicle

India Lifts Restrictions on Wheat Exports

India Lifts Restrictions on Wheat Exports

India has removed restrictions on the export of certain wheat products, changing their export policy status from “Prohibited” to “Free.” The change was introduced through Notification No. 35/2026-27, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry on August 24, 2026.

Under the new regulation, the export policy for “Durum Wheat – Other,” classified under ITC (HS) code 10011900, and “Wheat,” classified under ITC (HS) code 10019910, has been changed from “Prohibited” to “Free.” The amendment took effect immediately upon publication, with no transition period specified.

The decision marks a significant change in India’s wheat trade policy following the export restrictions introduced in 2022. During 2026, the country had already begun easing export restrictions, including allowing exports within specified quantities. The August 24 notification, however, directly removes the “Prohibited” status for the two specified wheat categories.

On the same day, the DGFT also issued Notification No. 34/2026-27, introducing changes to the export policy for wheat flour and related products. Under this notification, products including atta, maida, semolina (rava/suji), whole wheat flour and resultant atta were also moved from “Prohibited” to “Free.”

The decision could potentially strengthen India’s position in global wheat trade. However, the impact of the policy change on actual shipments will depend on factors including domestic wheat prices in India and developments in international wheat markets.

The DGFT notification specifies that the change applies only to the products covered by the designated HS codes and that the new “Free” export policy takes effect immediately.

India’s return to a more liberal wheat export regime comes at a time when global grain supply prospects are being closely monitored. Greater availability of Indian wheat on international markets could provide buyers, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, with an additional sourcing option.