1380. Trends in Export Restrictions on Major Crops

In a highly interdependent global agri-food system, export restrictions on major crops can increase uncertainty and price pressures for import-dependent countries. Continuous monitoring of these measures is essential to reduce market volatility and enable timely policy responses.

The OECD and the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS) have tracked export restrictions on major crops (maize, rice, soybeans, and wheat) going back to January 2007. A recent OECD report, based on the latest database update, analyzed export restriction trends from January 2024 to June 2025.

Approximately 85% of new or ongoing restrictions from January 2024 to June 2025 were imposed by four countries: Argentina, India, the Russian Federation, and Ukraine. During this period, rice was the most targeted staple crop, accounting for 45% of export restrictions, followed by wheat (26%), maize (18%), and soybeans (10%).

The recent sharp decline in food price indicators reflects the removal of existing export restrictions by major market players and a relative decline in the overall number of export restrictions being introduced. Notably, India has eliminated export bans, export quotas, export taxes, and minimum export prices (MEPs) on rice, and has eliminated almost all export restrictions on rice except for licensing requirements. Argentina has abolished corn export quotas and eliminated export taxes on rice. The Russian Federation has eliminated export taxes on rice and soybeans and ended its wheat export ban.

The information provided by these international organizations and initiatives is essential for the transparent and efficient functioning of global trade markets, supports the resilience of agri-food systems, and contributes to ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food worldwide.

Contributor: IIYAMA, Miyuki, Information Program