New Delhi: MMTC has floated a tender for the import of 2,000 tonnes of onion from countries such as China, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Egypt to boost domestic supply and curb price rise.
Retail prices of onion have zoomed around Rs 50 per kg in metros due to supply disruptions, forcing the government to tap the overseas market for the kitchen staple for the first time this year.
According to a notification by MMTC, bids have been invited for import of 2,000 tonnes of onion from Pakistan, Egypt, China, Afghanistan or any other origin.
Bids should be submitted before September 24 and will remain valid till October 10. The shipments should reach by the last week of November.
The minimum quantity of bid would be 500 tonnes and should be quoted in US dollar separately for each origin. In the case of inland container depot, minimum bid quantity will be 250 tonnes.
The government had earlier withdrew export incentives under the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme for the commodity to discourage exports. It also had directed states to take action against hoarders.