The Top 5 Largest Wheat Exporters in the World

Wheat is a vital cereal grain that is a dietary staple for millions across the globe. Some nations have become leading wheat exporters, shipping millions of metric tons to importers every year. Wheat exporting is a multi-billion dollar global industry.

Below are the 5 biggest wheat exporters in 2023:

1. Russia

Russia is expected to be the largest wheat exporting country in 2023, with projected exports of 35 million metric tons. Russia has seen rapid growth in its wheat production and exports over the past decade due to government investments in agriculture. Vast arable land areas, low labor costs, and proximity to import markets help Russia dominate wheat exports, especially to North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. The weakening of the ruble has also made Russian wheat more competitive globally.

2. United States

The United States is forecast to export 27 million metric tons of wheat in 2023, maintaining its position as the second top wheat exporter worldwide. The United States is renowned for its high-quality hard red winter wheat and hard red spring wheat, which is in high demand. Large wheat production capacities in the Great Plains and advanced transportation infrastructure allow for efficient export of U.S. wheat through Pacific, Atlantic and Gulf ports. Top destinations include Mexico, the Philippines, Japan and Nigeria.

3. Canada

Canada is expected to ship 26 million metric tons of wheat overseas in 2023, making it the third largest wheat exporter. Canadian wheat is dominated by prized high-protein hard red spring wheat, white wheat and durum wheat. Canada’s wheat export infrastructure includes direct railway access and modern ports on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Top importers of Canadian wheat include the United States, Japan, Indonesia, Peru and Mexico.

4. France

France is projected to export around 19 million metric tons of wheat in 2023, maintaining its status as the world’s fourth biggest exporter. France is known for its high-quality soft wheat favored by many European buyers. France has strong wheat export ties with Algeria, Morocco, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy and Egypt. Investments in wheat research and infrastructure keep France competitive in the global grain trade.

5. Australia

Australia is forecast to ship out approximately 17 million metric tons of wheat in 2023, making it the fifth largest wheat exporter worldwide. Australia cultivates mostly high-protein hard wheat perfectly suited to Asia’s noodles and steamed breads. Australia exports heavily to Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, the Philippines and Malaysia. Wheat research and efficient transport links aid Australian wheat exports.

The total value of global wheat exports was estimated at over $60 billion in 2022. As the world’s population grows, demand for wheat-based foods is expected to increase in coming decades. The top wheat exporting nations are poised to benefit from this growing trade in the essential cereal grain. Their advanced agri-food systems, storage and transportation infrastructure will ensure they maintain their dominant positions in feeding the world.

Global Wheat Demand Trends

Wheat is a key crop for food and trade. Wheat demand and supply vary by region and country. Wheat market may face opportunities and challenges in the future. Here are some facts and insights about the global wheat demand.

Wheat Demand by Region

Asia and Europe are the largest wheat consumers, with 70% of the total demand.
Asia consumes wheat mainly as food, and has a growing demand due to population, income and urbanization.
Europe consumes wheat mainly as feed and food and has a stable demand due to high consumption and low population growth.
Africa, North America and Latin America are other wheat consumers, with 30% of the total demand.
Africa consumes wheat mainly as food, and has a fast-growing demand due to population, income and urbanization.
North America consumes wheat mainly as feed and food, and has a declining demand due to dietary diversification, health concerns and competition.
Latin America consumes wheat mainly as food and has a moderate-growing demand due to population, income and urbanization.

Wheat Supply by Country

China and India are the largest wheat producers, with 30% of the total production.
China produces wheat mainly for domestic consumption, and imports wheat to meet its demand.
India produces wheat mainly for domestic consumption, and exports wheat to meet its supply.
Russia and Australia are the largest wheat exporters, with 28% of the total exports.
Russia exports wheat mainly to Asia and Africa and has a surplus of wheat supply over demand.
Australia exports wheat mainly to Asia and Europe and has a surplus of wheat supply over demand.
Other countries that produce and export wheat are the United States, Canada, France, Argentina, Ukraine, Germany, Romania, Kazakhstan and Brazil. They account for 62% of the total production and exports.

Wheat Market Outlook

The global wheat market is expected to grow at similar rates in the short term, as the supply and demand are balanced.
The global wheat market may face uncertainties and risks in the long term, as the demand and supply may diverge due to various factors.
The global wheat market may need more coordination and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure food security, sustainability and resilience.

References:

http://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/TP

http://www.fao.org/worldfoodsituation/csdb/en/

https://databank.worldbank.org/source/world-development-indicators

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/08/top-10-countries-produce-most-wheat/