MUMBAI, 26 March 2024: Wheat is a staple food crop, integral to the global food system. It is the third most-produced cereal worldwide, after rice and maize.
The production of wheat is widespread, with over 80 different countries contributing to its global yield. However, the majority of wheat production comes from a handful of countries. Here’s a look at the top wheat-producing states in the world.
China: The Wheat Powerhouse
China is the world’s largest wheat producer, yielding more than 2.4 billion tonnes of wheat over the last two decades. This accounts for approximately 17% of the total global production. A majority of China’s wheat is used domestically to meet the country’s rising food demand.
India: The Second-Largest Producer
India is the second-largest wheat-producing country, contributing 12.5% of the world’s wheat. Over the last two decades, India has produced a significant amount of wheat, meeting both domestic and international demands.
Russia: The Wheat Exporter
Russia is not only a major wheat producer but also the largest global wheat exporter. Despite the recent disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continues to play a significant role in the global wheat market.
United States: The Breadbasket
The United States is the fourth-largest individual wheat producer in the world. The leading wheat-producing states in the U.S. include North Dakota, Kansas, Washington, Montana, and Idaho.
Other Notable Producers
Other notable wheat producers include Canada, France, Pakistan, Ukraine, Germany, and Turkey. These countries, together with the top four, significantly contribute to the global wheat supply.
The Future of Wheat Production
Wheat production is subject to various factors such as climate change, technological advancements, and geopolitical events. As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for wheat. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of wheat production is crucial for ensuring global food security.
Spotlight on India
India holds a significant position in the global wheat production landscape. It is the world’s second-largest wheat producer, contributing to about 13.53% of the total global production6. India produces around 1105.54 lakh tonnes of wheat annually.
The wheat crop in India is cultivated during the Rabi (winter) season and harvested in the spring or summer season. There are about 448 varieties of wheat grown in India, catering to diverse culinary preferences across the country.
India’s wheat production has seen a steady increase over the years. From producing 36 million tons in FY 1980, India’s wheat production increased to 107 million tons in FY 2021-228. This growth can be attributed to various government initiatives post the Green Revolution in the late sixties.
India’s wheat production not only meets domestic demand but also contributes to the global wheat supply. Despite the challenges posed by climate change and other factors, India continues to maintain its position as a leading wheat producer on the global stage.
