Bangladesh to cut wheat imports by 11% amid high global prices

Bangladesh’s wheat imports could fall by 11% in the MY 2026/27 to 6.6 mln tons from 7.4 mln tons in the previous season, according to USDA. The main factors are high global prices, large domestic stocks and uncertainty over global supplies.

Bangladesh relies on imports for more than 80% of its wheat needs. According to USDA, disruptions to grain shipments from Ukraine and Russia have reduced available supplies from the Black Sea region and increased global market volatility. Since July, US wheat export prices have risen by $26/t, while HRW wheat reached $321/t in August.

Large stocks built up after record imports last season are another factor expected to curb purchases. Private-sector imports rose by 16% to nearly 6.6 mln tons, while public-sector purchases increased by 61% to 751 thsd tons.

At the same time, domestic demand remains strong. USDA raised its forecast for wheat consumption in Bangladesh to 7.8 mln tons, 4% above its previous estimate. Demand is supported by households and the food industry, while high rice prices are encouraging some consumers to shift toward wheat flour.

Domestic wheat production remains largely unchanged at around 1.05 mln tons. Expansion of wheat area is constrained by higher returns from vegetables and corn, as well as limited availability of high-yielding varieties adapted to local conditions.

Tags: prices, wheat, imports, Bangladesh, global market