The Indian government is considering a plan to import wheat at zero duty for the first time in six years in order to control rising prices and replenish dwindling stocks. This move comes as wheat prices in the country have surged to a six-month high due to supply shortages and increased demand ahead of the festival season.
The government is looking to allow wheat imports through southern ports such as Thoothukudi, Kochi, and Krishnapatnam, as this would ensure the imported wheat is not used for seed purposes. There is also a proposal to allow importers to supply wheat to the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and potentially give them a duty waiver. However, the government has clarified that the FCI will not be procuring any wheat from the importers. This decision to open up wheat imports comes after five years, when India last imported high-quality wheat, particularly from Australia, to meet domestic demand.
Citations:
[1] https://www.tridge.com/news/india-centre-mulls-zero-duty-wheat-import-pl-xznkdy
[2] https://www.telegraphindia.com/business/centre-mulls-zero-duty-wheat-import-plan-to-check-rising-prices-boost-dwindling-stocks/cid/2024277
[3] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/indias-zero-duty-wheat-imports-move-may-come-with-riders/article68232732.ece
[4] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/india-set-to-cut-wheat-import-duty-15-allow-shipments-into-southern-ports/article67173260.ece
[5] https://thedailyguardian.com/india-to-resume-wheat-imports-after-six-years-to-boost-reserves/