Govt bans export of milk powder, casein

The government today banned exports of milk powder and its products to boost domestic supplies and check rising prices of milk.

Besides, export of casein and its products, a protein derivative of milk, has also been banned by the Commerce Ministry.

Milk prices have risen by about 20% in the retail market and by 12% at the wholesale level in the last one year, adding to the food inflation which is well into the double digit.

The ban will apply to skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder, dairy whitener and infant milk foods "till further orders", Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said.