Archive · 10 Jan 2026
India's 2025 Rice Exports Surge
India's rice exports have increased a lot in 2025.
The government stopped some rules that were limiting exports, and this made it easier for India to sell more rice to other countries.
India is the biggest rice exporter in the world, and with more rice available, the prices became lower.
This helped people in other countries, especially those who are not very rich, to buy rice at cheaper prices.
Countries like Bangladesh and those in Africa bought more rice from India.
Other countries that export rice, like Thailand and Vietnam, had to sell less because India's rice was cheaper and more available.
This is good news for people who need affordable rice, but it might be a bit tough for other rice-exporting countries.
India's rice exports surged 19.4% in 2025 to 21.55 million metric tons, near the 2022 record of 22.3 million tons.
The increase followed the lifting of export curbs in March 2025, making Indian rice more competitive.
Non-basmati rice exports jumped 25% to 15.15 million tons, while basmati exports increased 8% to a record 6.4 million tons.
Major importers of non-basmati rice include Bangladesh, Benin, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Djibouti.
Premium basmati rice was heavily purchased by Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Britain.
- Who
- Indian government and industry officials
- What
- India's rice exports surged 19.4% in 2025, reaching near-record levels
- When
- After lifting export curbs in March 2025
- Where
- India, with exports to various countries including Bangladesh, Benin, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Iran, United Arab Emirates, and Britain
- Why
- Due to the lifting of export restrictions and record production, making Indian rice more competitive
Government and Industry Officials
Rival Exporters (Thailand, Vietnam)
Export Competitiveness
Government and Industry Officials
Indian rice exports are highly competitive due to lower prices, helping India regain market share.
Rival Exporters (Thailand, Vietnam)
Increased Indian exports have curbed shipments from rival exporters, affecting their market share.
- 2025 Rice Exports
- 21.55 million metric tons
- 2024 Rice Exports
- 18.05 million metric tons
- Record Rice Exports
- 22.3 million tons (2022)
- Non-basmati Rice Exports 2025
- 15.15 million tons (25% increase)
- Basmati Rice Exports 2025
- 6.4 million tons (8% increase, record)
- Major Non-basmati Importers
- Bangladesh, Benin, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Djibouti
- Major Basmati Importers
- Iran, United Arab Emirates, Britain