Politics · India Bureau
India poised to expand rice exports on price advantage and global supply squeeze
India's rice exports have surged 13 per cent in value during the first half of the current fiscal year, with industry officials confident of sustained growth driven by competitive pricing and rising worldwide demand amid production concerns elsewhere.
LSN India ·
India's rice shipments reached Rs 54,937.71 crore in the April-September period of FY2025-26, reflecting robust export momentum as global buyers turn to Indian suppliers, according to the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF).
The country's competitive edge stems from significantly lower prices compared to rival exporters. "Indian rice prices are at an all-time low, undercutting Thailand and Myanmar by nearly 10 per cent," said IREF Vice President Dev Gard. This price advantage comes as India maintains substantial surplus stocks following a domestic production of over 154 million tonnes in the 2024-25 crop year.
Global demand for rice is expected to strengthen further as production concerns mount in key growing regions. El Niño weather patterns threaten output in traditional rice-producing areas, potentially tightening international supplies and creating opportunities for Indian exporters to capture market share.
Industry officials view India's combination of ample supply, cost competitiveness, and anticipated global supply constraints as favourable conditions for expanding export revenues in coming months.