KIEV, UKRAINE — Ukraine grain traders will limit wheat exports to 20.2 million tonnes in 2019-20 to curb an increase in domestic bread prices, Reuters reported.

On March 30 Ukrainian millers and bakers asked the government to slow grain exports as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Associations are looking to keep bread prices from surging as they are already seeing an increase in wheat prices.

Even though Ukraine’s wheat production exceeds its consumption the economy ministry plans to control wheat exports, sell flour in the domestic market and work with traders, Reuters said.

Ukraine’s grain exports are up 24% for 2019-20 as the nation begins sowing its next crop.

Exports for the July-June season totaled 39.5 million tonnes as of Feb. 25, according to the Ministry for Development of Economy, Trade and Agriculture. Wheat exports reached 16.4 million tonnes, while corn totaled 18.7 million tonnes and barley 4 million tonnes.

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