Sharp drop in procurement: Centre weighs 10% tax to rein in wheat exports

Exporters' mandatory registration on cards; PMO to decide on export ban

Concerned about the sharp drop in wheat procurement, the Centre might impose a nominal export tax of 10 per cent or make it mandatory for exporters to register themselves with a competent authority to slow the pace of shipment.

But it will wait for some time before taking a final call whether to ban export, senior officials and market participants said.

Another way it could discourage export is to stop issuing the registration-cum-membership certificate (RCMC) to exporters, required to get Customs and excise benefits.

“Not issuing the RCMC can discourage exports,” the official said. The maximum quantity each exporter can ship out can