Kazakhstan bans wheat imports for six months to curb inflows of Russian grain

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture has imposed a six-month ban on wheat imports by road, rail, and water transport. The new regulation will take effect on July 27, 2026, and applies to shipments from both Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states and third countries. The main objective is to limit imports of low-priced Russian wheat, which has been putting pressure on the domestic grain market.

At the same time, wheat imports by rail will still be allowed for poultry farms, grain processing companies, licensed grain elevators, and the state-owned Food Contract Corporation. However, wheat imported under these exemptions may not be sold on either the domestic or export markets.

The restrictions do not apply to wheat transported in rail transit through Kazakhstan or to shipments moving between EAEU member states via Kazakh territory.

In recent years, Russian wheat has accounted for the vast majority of Kazakhstan’s wheat imports. Its large volumes and lower prices have intensified competition for domestic producers and contributed to oversupply in the local market.

As one of the world’s leading exporters of wheat and flour, Kazakhstan is seeking to protect domestic producers and ensure stable operations of its grain processing industry. The country has introduced similar restrictions on Russian wheat imports in previous years to support its domestic grain market.

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