India Lends Grain Market a Much-Needed Boost Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

India has lifted its ban on wheat exports, a move that could ease global supplies at a time when Black Sea shipments are under strain due to escalating attacks between Russia and Ukraine. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued notifications confirming the change took effect immediately.

The revised policy covers wheat, durum variety, flour, maida, semolina, wholemeal atta, and resultant atta, all moving from the prohibited to the free export category. This reopens India's market for global buyers at a moment when established supply routes are under pressure.

India first banned wheat exports in May 2022, citing food security concerns and rising domestic prices linked to disruption from the Russia-Ukraine war. The restrictions were extended to wheat flour exports later that year.

The government eased the policy gradually rather than all at once. In February 2026, it allowed exports of 2.5 million tonnes of wheat and a further 500,000 tonnes of wheat products, citing improved stock availability. This month's decision removes the remaining restrictions entirely.