The Central government has announced the continuation of the ban on onion exports until March 31, aiming to maintain stable prices and ensure an adequate supply within the country, according to a senior official on Tuesday. The ban, initially imposed on December 8, 2023, will persist as planned.

Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh affirmed, "The ban on onion exports remains in effect, with no alterations to its status." He emphasized the government's commitment to securing a sufficient domestic onion supply at affordable prices for consumers.

Recent speculations regarding the lifting of the export ban have coincided with a notable surge in modal wholesale onion prices. On February 19, prices soared by 40.62% to Rs 1,800 per quintal at Lasalgoan, India's primary wholesale onion market, compared to Rs 1,280 per quintal on February 17.

Sources suggest that even after March 31, the ban is unlikely to be revoked, particularly with the impending general elections. Lower production during the rabi (winter) season is anticipated due to reduced cultivation, especially in Maharashtra.

In the 2023 rabi season, onion production was estimated at 22.7 million tonnes.

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