Wheat exports from Kazakhstan decreased in February

Kazakhstan’s wheat exports totaled 825.6 thousand tons in February 2026 (excluding EAEU countries), down 14% compared to January and 55% lower year-on-year. The decline is attributed to seasonal factors as well as changes in domestic export regulations.

At the same time, cumulative wheat exports for the first six months of the 2025/26 marketing year reached 5.16 million tons, up 11% from the same period last season. This means that about 66% of the projected export potential—estimated at 7.8 million tons—has already been fulfilled.

Shipments increased significantly to several destinations. Exports to Uzbekistan rose by 20%, to Kyrgyzstan by 15%, and to the United Kingdom doubled. Supplies to Turkey surged 27-fold, while exports to Afghanistan, Georgia, and Norway also posted strong growth. New destinations included Algeria, Iran, the Netherlands, Portugal, France, and Tunisia.

Meanwhile, exports declined to Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Latvia, and Italy, while shipments to Morocco dropped to zero. Exports to China fell sharply—by nearly 19 times—but this was offset by a sharp increase in feed meal exports.

Central Asia remains the key export region, accounting for 76% of total wheat shipments. Uzbekistan is the leading importer with a 59% share. Total exports to the region exceeded 3.9 million tons, surpassing last year’s level.

Imports of Russian wheat into Kazakhstan reached 875.3 thousand tons during September–February, with February volumes nearly doubling compared to January. However, imports may decline due to restrictions imposed by Kazakhstan amid a worsening epizootic situation in certain regions of Russia.

Durum wheat exports increased by 31% in the first half of the season to 275.6 thousand tons, with Italy remaining the main buyer. At the same time, wheat flour exports rose to 1.14 million tons (+7.6%) despite a decline in February shipments. Overall, strong export performance earlier in the season has helped Kazakhstan maintain solid positions in global grain and processed product markets.

Tags: Kazakhstan, export, grain, wheat