India is aiming to boost its rice exports by targeting 26 new global markets, seeking to capture ₹1.8 trillion worth of imports currently dominated by competitors like Pakistan and Thailand. This strategy was highlighted ahead of the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, set for October 30-31 in New Delhi. Key markets include Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico, China, Philippines, UK, US, Malaysia, France, UAE, Brazil, South Africa, Belgium, Germany, and Kenya. The focus is on diverse varieties like basmati, non-basmati, and geographical indication (GI) tagged rice to replace existing imports.
As the world’s largest rice exporter, India supplies to over 172 countries and holds about 40% of global rice trade. In FY25, exports reached 20.1 million metric tonnes valued at $12.95 billion, up from previous years. Production hit around 150 million tonnes in 2024-25 from 47 million hectares, accounting for 28% of global output, with yields rising to 3.2 tonnes per hectare due to better seeds, farming practices, and irrigation. Recent data shows September 2025 exports surged 33.18% to $925 million, while April-September FY25 grew 10% to $5.63 billion.
The BIRC 2025, organized by the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) and Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), will draw over 3,000 farmers, 1,000 buyers from 80+ countries, and 2,500 exporters. It aims to sign ₹25,000 crore worth of export MoUs, promote sustainability, innovation, and transparent trade under the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. Foreign ministers from Philippines, Ghana, Namibia, and Gambia will attend, enhancing global ties. An AI-powered rice grader will debut to cut wastage from 25% to 10%.
This expansion follows strong monsoons boosting output beyond domestic needs of 120.7 million tonnes. It strengthens India’s role in food supply chains, benefiting farmers and the economy amid record stocks.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What are the key markets India is targeting for rice exports?
India focuses on 26 countries like Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico, and China to capture ₹1.8 trillion in imports from competitors.
2. Why is India expanding rice exports now?
With strong production of 150 million tonnes and record exports of $12.95 billion in FY25, India aims to boost farmer incomes and global market share via BIRC 2025.
3. What is the Bharat International Rice Conference?
BIRC 2025, held October 30-31 in New Delhi, unites 3,000 farmers, 1,000 buyers, and exporters to sign ₹25,000 crore MoUs and promote sustainable rice trade.