Kazakhstan plans to impose temporary ban on wheat imports

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Agriculture has drafted an order to temporarily ban wheat imports by road, rail, and water transport for six months, Report informs.

According to the ministry, the proposed restrictions would apply to wheat shipments from both third countries and member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). However, several exceptions are provided. Rail imports would still be allowed for poultry farms, grain-processing enterprises, licensed grain elevators, and the National Company Food Contract Corporation.

The imported wheat permitted under these exemptions would not be allowed to be sold on either domestic or foreign markets.

The proposed restrictions would not affect rail transit shipments through Kazakhstan or EAEU cargo transported across the country in transit.

The Agriculture Ministry said the measure is intended to support domestic producers and ensure stable sales of locally grown wheat. The draft order has been published for public consultation until July 1.

In a separate proposal, the ministry also suggested introducing temporary restrictions on beef exports. Under the draft order, exports of fresh, chilled, and frozen beef would be capped at 25,000 tonnes for six months. The quota would apply to exports to both third countries and EAEU member states.