Wheat Export Opportunity Opens for India

By S.S. Jayamohan

India is entering a new phase in the global wheat trade. The government has now opened the way for larger commercial exports after several years of restrictions.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), through Notification No. 35/2026-27 dated 24 August, 2026, has revised the export policy for certain wheat products. The export status of Durum Wheat (ITC HS Code 10011900) and Wheat (ITC HS Code 10019910) has been changed from “Prohibited” to “Free” with immediate effect.

This policy change comes at a favourable time for India. The country has recorded a strong wheat harvest. According to the Government’s latest Third Advance Estimates, wheat production in 2025-26 is expected to be around 120.66 million tonnes, compared with 117.95 million tonnes in the previous year. India remains the world’s second-largest wheat producer.

The availability of higher domestic supplies gives Indian exporters an opportunity to enter new overseas markets and expand their customer base. Global buyers are also looking to diversify their sources of wheat, creating new opportunities for reliable suppliers.

According to a recent assessment by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), India could unlock a wheat export opportunity of more than US$1.5 billion annually as exports reopen and global buyers diversify their sources.

For India’s maritime and logistics sector, this development could bring significant business opportunities. Higher wheat exports would increase demand for port handling, bulk cargo operations, storage, warehousing, bagging, inland transportation and shipping services. Ports with good grain-handling and storage facilities are likely to benefit from the increased trade.

However, exporters will need to focus on consistent quality, competitive prices, reliable logistics and compliance with the standards of importing countries. Choosing the right markets will also be important, especially in countries where Indian wheat can offer a price and freight advantage.

The removal of the export restriction is therefore more than just a policy change. It gives India an opportunity to strengthen its position in the global wheat market, increase export earnings and create new business for the country’s ports and logistics industry. For Indian exporters and the maritime sector, the wheat export window has opened. The next challenge is to turn this opportunity into sustained international trade.