23-24-25 OCTOBER 2026

एक राष्ट्र • एक व्यापार • एक नीति
The Voice of India's Rice Export Sector

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, established in 1986 through an Act of Parliament. Its core mandate is to promote the export of agricultural and processed food products from India.
APEDA is responsible for the development, promotion, and regulation of a wide range of products, including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, organic products, and importantly, rice (both Basmati and non-Basmati). India is the world’s largest exporter of Basmati rice, known for its aroma and long grain, and a major supplier of non-Basmati rice, catering to diverse global markets.
APEDA plays a key role in facilitating rice exports by ensuring quality certification, adherence to international standards, and providing export assistance to stakeholders. Through its support for infrastructure development, branding, marketing, financial assistance, and trade facilitation it also significantly contributes to enhancing India's agri-export competitiveness, with rice being a major contributor to India's agricultural export basket.

The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) is a national-level apex body representing the interests of Basmati and non-Basmati rice exporters across India. It serves as a unified platform for key stakeholders in the rice value chain—including exporters, millers, traders, logistics providers, and associated service sectors.
IREF plays a crucial role in policy advocacy, trade facilitation, market access, and capacity building. It works closely with APEDA, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the Export Inspection Council (EIC), the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Port Authorities, and various State Governments to find timely solutions to challenges affecting the rice export ecosystem.
The management and governing body of IREF comprises seasoned experts and professionals with diverse experience in the rice sector and export trade. Their deep industry knowledge enables IREF to effectively represent the concerns of exporters, policy advocacy, and implement best practices across the sector.
IREF also undertakes initiatives such as trade delegations, export promotion campaigns, and industry consultations to strengthen India’s position as a global leader in rice exports, while ensuring compliance with international quality and safety standards.
