India is the largest exporter of rice, satisfying the needs of both domestic and international markets. As per the sources and data obtained from the members associated with rice exporters association the annual approximate figure of rice export from India is 18 million tonnes. The increasing global demand for premium Indian basmati and non-basmati rice has positioned the country as a key player in the international market.
One of the most notable and commendable facts in midst of all these is that people from across the world are not only interested in consuming the rice that comes from India but also, they are eager about the Paddy crop season, the process of rice cultivation in India & other details that are related with rice. India’s rice export business is not limited to a single variety of rice but is spread across several varieties of rice such as parboiled rice exports, 1121 steam basmati rice, Sona Masoori rice, and PR11 non-Basmati rice to name a few. This blog will help you explore the legal rice export procedure in India & factors that drive large scale rice export from India.
Rice Export Procedure in India
The export of rice from India is on the rise, breaking all the barriers. Countries in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia regularly import Indian rice due to its high quality and a wide range of available options. Starting a rice-export business can be tedious and confusing, but it becomes easy and manageable when you understand the process, know about the history of basmati rice, you have proper knowledge & details about the Basmati rice origin in India & other key details about the industry.
Every business has different rules, regulations, packaging standards, & preferences. Before you register your name as India rice exporters, it’s essential to get the basics right and complete all your important documentation. Let us find about the rice export procedure in India.
- Trust Only reliable suppliers: Export of rice demands reliability and trusted sources. Trust only reliable Indian rice exporters having all the necessary documents.
- Premium- Quality: Ensure only the high-quality of basmati and non-basmati rice is exported as the export sector not only carries Indian rice but also the Indian standards and rich heritage.
- Proper Storing of Rice: Packaging is one of the most important parts of the business, packaging of rice should meet the international guidelines with proper labelling.
- Documentation: All requisite export documents must be collected to comply with the guidelines.
- Shipping: Select the best shipping method and ensure collaboration with a reliable logistics company
Factors Driving Large-Scale Rice Export from India
- Diverse range of rice varieties
India’s rice export portfolio is incredibly diverse catering to a wide range of global demand and consumer preferences. While India is kingpin of Basmati rice, it also has no dearth of varieties in non-basmati rice which was also visible during the duration of India rice exports ban as the ban of non-basmati rice exports from India highly impacted the world. India is a leading exporter of parboiled rice as well.
- Competitive Pricing and High Volume of Production
Indian rice is competitively priced in comparison to other major rice exporting countries like Thailand and Vietnam. Rice Exporters Association in India such as IREF (Indian Rice Exporters Federation) ensure that only premium quality Indian rice reaches the international market but however, prices must be affordable and within the reach of everyone. Besides competitive pricing high volume of production ensures a steady surplus of export to meet global demand. Use of advanced farming techniques and govt. support boost Indian agricultural support which produces 120–130 million tonnes of rice annually.
- Sustainable Farming Practices
India adopts sustainable practices of farming, such as the System of Rice Intensification(SRI) and Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) cultivation methods. Adoption of such practices creates an appealing sense for Indian rice.
Legal Requirements for India Rice Exporters
- Importer Exporter Code (IEC): This is mandatory for any commercial enterprise engaged in international exchange. Moreover, you can observe for IEC via the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) internet site.
- Register with APEDA: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) regulates and promotes rice exports from India.
- GST Registration: As an exporter, you need a GST Identification Number (GSTIN) for tax compliance.
- FSSAI Certification: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that excellent food requirements are met earlier than export.
Rice Export from India Latest News (2024 Data & Trends)
Key Insights of Export of Basmati Rice from India – 2024
| Year | Total basmati rice export from India (metric tons) | % Change from Previous Year | Value (US$ billion) | % Change from Previous Year |
| export of basmati rice (2022) | 4.4 million | – | 4.3 | – |
| export of basmati rice (2023) | 4.9 million | 11.50% | 4.8 | 11.60% |
| April-February 2024 | 4.68 million | 14% | 5.2 | 22% |
Top basmati rice exporting countries
| Biggest basmati rice exporters | Basmati rice export data (export value in metric tons) | |
| 1 | India | 16,500 |
| 2 | Thailand | 8,200 |
| 3 | Vietnam | 7,600 |
| 4 | Pakistan | 5,000 |
| 5 | United States | 2,675 |
| 6 | China | 2,200 |
| 7 | Cambodia | 1,950 |
| 8 | Myanmar | 1,800 |
| 9 | Brazil | 1,300 |
| 10 | Uraguay | 950 |
Destination-Specific Rice Export Guidance
How to Export Rice from India to Australia – Register with APEDA, secure FSSAI certification, meet Australian food safety standards, and partner with a shipping/logistics company familiar with Australian customs.
How to Export Rice from India to Singapore – Ensure HACCP compliance and work with Singaporean import partners.
How to Export Rice from India to Dubai (UAE) – Follow Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) food regulations and ensure Halal certification if needed.
Rice Export from India to Bangladesh – Regular, high-volume trade route, requiring coordination with Indian customs and Bangladeshi importers.
Leading Players of Rice Exporters Association
- Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) – From restoration of RoDTEP on Basmati Rice to organizing BIRC 2025 at Bharat Mandapam on 30-31st October to promote the rice industry, IREF is leading the rice exporters association to help the industry strengthen its position in the international markets and boost Indian economy.
- AIREA
- Rice India Exports Private Limited
Top basmati rice exporters in India
- Shri Lal Mahal
- Mahavir Rice & Gen. Mills
- P.K.Overseas P.Ltd.
- Galore Impex
- Asm Global Inc
Conclusion
The increasing global demand for Indian basmati and non-basmati rice is a testament to the country’s ability to cater to diverse market with varied consumer preferences. With several historical data suggesting about the Basmati rice origin in India, the country is also the leading exporter of basmati rice. Exporters whether a newcomer in the market or the experienced one need to ensure that only the finest quality of rice reaches the global market that meets and satisfy all the legal requirements as well. While exporting Indian rice exporters not only export food product but also exports the finest standards of Indian culture.