Indian Basmati Rice Exports Rise Despite Middle East Tensions

India’s basmati rice exports saw a significant increase in the 2024-25 financial year, rising by Rs 1,923 crore from the previous year, despite the backdrop of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.

The conflict had temporarily stalled shipments, yet the export value reached Rs 50,312 crore, compared to Rs 48,389 crore in 2023-24, according to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS).

Robust demand from the Middle East

The 3.97% rise in export value was primarily driven by strong demand from Middle Eastern countries.

Saudi Arabia emerged as the top importer, purchasing 11.73 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of Indian basmati rice.

Iraq and Iran followed with 9.05 LMT and 8.55 LMT, respectively.

These three nations were also the leading buyers in the previous fiscal year.

Higher export volume across more markets

In volume terms, India exported 60.65 LMT of basmati rice in FY 2024-25, up 15.7% from the 52.42 LMT in 2023-24.

India expanded its market reach by exporting to 154 countries this fiscal year, compared to 150 countries last year.

The other top destinations included Yemen (3.92 LMT), the United Arab Emirates (3.89 LMT), the United States (2.74 LMT), the United Kingdom (1.80 LMT), Kuwait (1.75 LMT), Oman (1.49 LMT), and Qatar (1.24 LMT).

Saudi Arabia also led in terms of rupee value, paying Rs 10,190.73 crore for its imports.

Iraq followed at Rs 7,201 crore, while Iran paid Rs 6,374 crore.

Other significant contributors included the UAE (Rs 3,089 crore), Yemen (Rs 3,038.56 crore), and the US (Rs 2,849 crore).

The UK, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar also featured in the top ten buyers list, with each country contributing over Rs 1,000 crore.

The increase in exports despite logistical challenges and regional instability underscores the resilience of India’s agricultural trade.

Basmati rice remains a critical export commodity, reflecting both the strength of India’s agricultural production and its robust trade relationships in the Middle East and beyond.

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