The Indian government has lifted its ban on the export of non-basmati rice, allowing traders to resume shipments. This decision was made on September 28, 2024, and is aimed at improving the country’s rice export market.
Non-Basmati Rice Export Lifted
In July 2023, the Indian government imposed a ban on the export of non-basmati white rice to ensure enough supply for local consumers and keep prices stable. The government aimed to prevent shortages and manage domestic prices.
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With the new policy, non-basmati white rice can now be exported freely, but exporters must follow a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 490 per tonne. Additionally, the government has removed the export duty on this type of rice, encouraging traders to participate in the international market.
The export duty on parboiled rice has also been reduced from 20% to 10%. This change comes after the government recently lifted the minimum export price for basmati rice to encourage more exports and support farmers.
India has a good stock of rice in its warehouses, which means there is enough rice available for both domestic needs and export. In the first four months of the current fiscal year, India exported USD 189 million worth of non-basmati white rice. This amount was significantly lower than the USD 852.52 million exported in the previous fiscal year.
Even during the ban, India continued to export rice to friendly nations such as Maldives, Mauritius, and several African countries to help them with food security.
Some countries, including the United States, had previously raised concerns about India’s export ban, stating it affected countries that depend on imports for their food supply. The Indian government defended its decision, emphasizing that the ban was necessary to protect the food security of its own citizens.
