India’s Rice Exports to 26 Priority Markets Rise

India’s rice exports to 26 priority markets reached ₹23,476 crore and 4.79 million tonnes between November 2025 and March 2026. The Indian Rice Exporters Federation analysed the data on 26 August 2026 and compared the five-month period with the corresponding three-year average.

Rice Export Profile

Rice is a major agricultural export of India and includes basmati rice and non-basmati rice. India is one of the world’s largest rice producers and exporters, and rice trade is closely linked with agricultural pricing, logistics, and food processing.

Market-wise Export Trends

The export value to the 26 priority markets rose by 1.1% and export volume increased by 5.6% over the three-year average. The United Arab Emirates recorded the highest year-on-year export value growth at 65%, reaching ₹3,859.04 crore, while its export volume rose by 64%.

European markets also recorded higher shipments during the November 2025 to March 2026 period. Belgium posted a 53.8% rise in export value, Germany recorded 33.5%, France recorded 31.3%, and the United Kingdom recorded 26.9%.

Emerging Destinations and Trade Routes

South Africa recorded a 42.9% rise in export volume, Mexico recorded a 50.9% rise in shipments and a 22.1% rise in export value, and Senegal recorded a 29.9% rise in export volume. The All India Rice Exporters Association stated that exports to Iran, which account for 7% of India’s global rice shipments, are expected to continue through alternative payment routes in the United Arab Emirates, Germany, China, and Turkey.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority is a statutory export promotion body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Bharat Mandapam is a convention and exhibition complex in New Delhi.
• Rice is classified as a cereal grain and belongs to the family Poaceae.
• India exports both basmati rice and non-basmati rice to multiple international markets.

Trade Diversification Strategy

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority and the Indian Rice Exporters Federation are using a cuisine-led approach for rice exports. The approach matches Indian rice varieties with local food preferences in overseas markets.

The three-day Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 is scheduled for 23 to 25 October 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.