November 5 2003, 15:28 Krestianskiye Vedomosti

Russia might impose limitation on wheat exports

Russian newspapers "Krestianskie Vedomosti" reported information from unnamed sources among grain traders that Russian agriculture ministry was currently preparing proposals about setting an export duty for wheat. In such a way the country's agricultural authorities are allegedly trying to hold back excessive exports of grain and to avoid deficit of milling grain in spring.

Grain export from since the start of this marketing year (July 2003) has constituted 3.2 million tonnes. The rates of exports have increased the latest weeks. According to State Customs Committee, grain export in September made 1.3 million tonnes - up 3 percent from that of August.

The agriculture ministry, however, has not officially confirmed the information about the wheat export limitations being prepared.