India’s Wheat Exports: Trends, Data, and Future Prospects

India, one of the world's largest wheat producers, is crucial in the global wheat market. The country's agricultural sector ensures food security domestically and internationally. Over the years, favourable climatic conditions, government policies, and increasing global demand have contributed to India's wheat export growth. However, since May 2022, the Indian government has restricted wheat exports to prioritize domestic consumption. Despite these restrictions, India continues to export wheat and wheat flour to select nations.

Overview of India's Wheat Production

India is the second-largest wheat producer globally, following China. The country produces approximately 100 million metric tons of wheat annually, with a significant portion allocated for domestic consumption. The key wheat-growing states include Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, where climatic conditions favor wheat cultivation.

To boost wheat production, the Indian government has implemented various initiatives such as subsidies, technological advancements, and financial support for farmers. These measures ensure higher yields and promote India as a competitive wheat supplier in the global market.

Wheat Export Restrictions in India

Since May 2022, India has restricted wheat exports to ensure sufficient domestic supply. However, in November 2023, the government approved limited wheat, wheat flour, and broken rice exports to select countries. The primary reason behind these restrictions was the depletion of government food reserves.

Additional factors affecting wheat exports include:

Small landholdings impacting large-scale wheat cultivation.
Poor soil organic matter reducing productivity.
Labor shortages affecting harvesting and processing.
High input costs making exports less profitable.
Delayed sowing and lack of awareness about modern agricultural technologies.

Despite these challenges, India continues to export wheat and wheat-based products based on specific government approvals.

Recent Wheat Export Statistics from India

According to wheat export data, India's wheat exports in the 2024 fiscal year amounted to just over 56 billion US dollars, marking a sharp decline from the previous year. The focus on domestic consumption has significantly reduced export volumes.

The government has permitted wheat exports to select nations, including Bhutan, Mali, and Indonesia. Specific allocations include:

48,804 metric tons of broken rice to Bhutan.
15,226 metric tons of maida/semolina.
5,326 metric tons of atta (wheat flour).
14,184 metric tons of wheat grain.

Additionally, India has authorized broken rice exports to Senegal, Indonesia, Mali, and The Gambia. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) oversees these exports under National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL). While India has restricted wheat exports, it allows shipments to select countries to support their food security needs.

Major Importers of Indian Wheat

Indian wheat is in demand across multiple countries. The top importers include:

Sri Lanka: The largest buyer of Indian wheat, accounting for 51% of exports.
United Arab Emirates: A significant market with 32% of imports.
Italy: Importing 12.9% of India's wheat exports.
Turkey: A smaller yet notable importer with 2.45% of exports.
Thailand: With a modest share, Indian wheat is imported in smaller volumes.

These countries rely on Indian wheat for its affordability, quality, and steady supply in normal market conditions.

India's Wheat Flour Exports in 2024

India also exports large volumes of wheat flour, with a remarkable shipment surge. In February 2024 alone, India exported 541 wheat flour shipments, reflecting a 425% increase compared to February 2023. Key buyers of Indian wheat flour include the United States, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates.

From March 2023 to February 2024, India exported 5,352 wheat flour shipments to 648 buyers through 250 exporters. India leads the global wheat flour export market, surpassing Turkey and Ukraine in total shipments.

Leading Wheat Exporting Countries in 2025

Globally, wheat exports are dominated by a few key players. The top wheat-exporting nations include:

Russia: The largest wheat exporter, commanding 16.5% of the global market.
Australia: Holding a 15.7% market share.
Canada: A key player with 14.9% of wheat exports.
United States: Contributing 10.3% to global wheat trade.
France, Ukraine, Romania, Poland, Germany, and Kazakhstan also rank among the leading wheat-exporting countries.

India's restrictions on wheat exports mean it will not be among the top exporters in 2025. However, its wheat flour exports continue strengthening its presence in international markets.

Major Wheat Exporters in India

Several Indian companies actively export wheat and wheat-based products. Some of the top exporters include:

Shri Mahavir Agritech
Pisum Foods Services
Amoli International
A-1 Overseas
ECO Export
Miraj Overseas
Grace Enterprise
Behal International
Saanvi Inc.
Yuna Exports Private Limited

Shri Mahavir Agritech remains the largest wheat exporters in India. Businesses seeking updated wheat exporters and buyers lists can explore specialized trade data platforms.

Government Policies Supporting Wheat Exports

The Indian government has implemented several policies to facilitate wheat exports while ensuring domestic supply stability. Key initiatives include:

Minimum Export Price (MEP): A measure to control excessive wheat exports and stabilize domestic prices.
Export Subsidies: Occasionally provided to make Indian wheat more competitive globally.
Logistics and Infrastructure Development: Investments in ports, railways, and storage facilities to streamline wheat export from India.
Trade Agreements: Bilateral trade agreements to enhance market access for Indian wheat.

Finding Wheat Importers in 2025

Leveraging trade data platforms is essential for businesses looking to connect with wheat importers. Websites specializing in global trade analytics provide insights into wheat exporters, HS codes, shipment details, and buyer information across 130+ countries.

Conclusion

India's wheat export market has immense potential due to high production, government support, and increasing global demand. Although export restrictions have impacted trade, opportunities remain in wheat flour exports and selective government-approved shipments. Indian exporters can still succeed by navigating trade regulations and leveraging market insights.

Accessing real-time trade databases can benefit businesses seeking up-to-date wheat export data, importers, or exporter details.