Wheat stocks tighten among major importers in Asia, the Middle East and Africa

Major wheat importers in Asia, the Middle East and Africa are facing tightening stocks amid disruptions to supplies from the Black Sea region. According to market participants, many buyers have delayed alternative purchases in recent months while waiting for supply conditions to stabilise.

The situation is particularly tight in Asian countries with high import dependence. Some processors have shifted to buying smaller cargoes to cover only immediate production needs and limit costs.

In Egypt, according to market participants, some flour mills are operating at around 30% of capacity. Processors continue to wait for lower purchase prices, which is limiting more active grain buying.

In Indonesia, some millers have switched to Australian wheat. Traders estimate that it costs around 20–25% more than their usual Black Sea grain, increasing processing costs.

Market participants expect competition for available wheat supplies to intensify through the end of the year. With demand rising and supply constrained, this could continue to support international grain prices.

Tags: grain, Black Sea region, wheat stocks