Bangladesh Seeks Alternative Wheat Supplies Amid Black Sea Disruptions
India has resumed significant wheat exports to Bangladesh after lifting an export ban in late August. The move comes as disruptions to Black Sea supplies, particularly due to the war between Russia and Ukraine, have sent global prices soaring.
More than 200,000 tonnes of Indian wheat were booked by importers amid disruptions to Black Sea trade. This is the first significant wheat sales from India since 2022.
The Black Sea region has been a major source of grain exports for countries like Russia and Ukraine, but the ongoing conflict has curtailed shipments, forcing buyers across Asia, Africa, and Europe to seek alternative supplies.
India's wheat export ban was lifted after the country's plentiful supply encouraged the move. Indian suppliers are offering competitive prices to Bangladesh, with delivered prices ranging from $305 to $326 a ton, making it an attractive option for importers in the region.
Bangladesh relies heavily on imported wheat, and India has traditionally been its main supplier, accounting for nearly 70% of the country's purchases before the export ban was imposed. The relaxation of export curbs and disruptions to Black Sea supplies have made Indian wheat internationally competitive for the first time in five years.