As we know that India is an agricultural country, and among the cereals, rice and wheat are produced more here because the climate here is conducive to their production. Although many varieties of rice are grown in India, Basmati rice is more famous, and the world is crazy about its wonderful aroma and taste. As the largest producer and exporter of Basmati rice in the world, India holds a unique position in the global Basmati rice market. Currently, the increasing global demand for Indian Basmati rice is creating export opportunities for exporters.

If we look at the recent data, Indian Basmati rice exports have been growing steadily over the past few years. From April 2023 to March 2024, India exported 5.24 million metric tons of Basmati rice worth $5.84 billion, up 22% from the previous year. And the top importers of Indian Basmati rice are Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, and UAE.

In this blog, we will explore the Basmati rice export market in 2025 and discuss how to export Basmati rice from India.

India's Basmati Rice Export Market Outlook 2025

• Rising Global Demand: Indian basmati rice is in high demand globally due to its fragrance, long grains, and premium taste.

• Widening Market Footprint: India is the leader in global basmati rice export-import, exporting to West Asia, Europe, and North America.

• Export Growth:

  • In FY 2022–23, India exported 4.56 million mt of basmati rice.

  • This is 15.66% higher than last year’s export.

• Health Driven Consumption:

  • Global consumers are moving towards organic and healthy food options.

  • Basmati rice is gluten-free, low in fat and rich in nutrients, making it a favourite among health-conscious buyers.

• Strong Trade Relationships:
   

  • India benefits from long-standing export ties with key importers like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, and the UAE.
     

• Future Growth Potential:
   

  • With rising consumption and favorable trade dynamics, India's basmati rice exports are set to expand further through 2025.

Key Highlights of Basmati Rice Production and Export in 2024

• India produces over 75% of the world’s basmati rice, with Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh being the major cultivating states.
   

• The export volume reached 4.56 million metric tons in 2023 and witnessed a 35.34 percent growth in 2024.
   

• The export value surged to 5.84 billion US dollars in 2024, driven by increasing global demand.
   

• The MENA region and several Western countries are the leading importers of Indian basmati rice.
   

Key Regulatory Requirements for Exporting Basmati Rice from India

We need to know how important it is to follow the regulatory systems to ensure product safety and quality standards and international standards in the Indian Basmati rice export process. Here we are discussing some of the minimum regulatory requirements that are necessary for any export business:

• The first requirement, which is important for every exporter is that firstly, exporters have to obtain an import-export code from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade to start the export business.

• Secondly, registration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority is mandatory for Basmati rice exporters.

• Thirdly, exporters need important quality certifications like ISO 22000, HACCP, and FSSAI to comply with international food safety standards.

• Another, you need a phytosanitary certificate to confirm that the rice is pest-free and safe for agricultural trade.

• Fifth, exporters need to provide an invoice, packing list, and customs declaration documents along with the certificate of origin and a health certificate for smooth clearance.

Lastly, exporters need to prepare an invoice along with a packing list and customs declaration documents to get hassle-free customs clearance. And exporters need to strictly follow the rules of the importing country to avoid rejection and delay.

Types of Basmati Rice Exported from India

Basmati rice is known for its unique quality and aromatic excellence and many varieties are grown across India. These varieties are loved by Indians across the world, and each variety has its own unique characteristics, flavour profile, and applications. Here is a list of the most common varieties that are majorly exported from India:

• 1121 white creamy sella 

• 1121 golden sella 

• 1121 steam Basmati rice 

• 1509 white creamy sella 

• 1509 golden sella 

• 1718 golden sella 

• 1401 golden sella 

• Sharbati Basmati Rice

• Mahi Suganda 

• Pusa 1121 

• Pusa 1718 

• Pusa 1509, etc.  

These varieties are in demand globally, catering to different culinary preferences.

Top 5 Basmati Rice Exporting Countries

India leads the world in basmati rice exports, with other nations trailing behind. The main exporters of basmati rice include these countries in 2024:

India holds the largest export market share of basmati rice, followed by Thailand and Vietnam, as well as Pakistan, which supply significant amounts to the world market.

Top 10 basmati rice exporters in India

There is a huge list of basmati rice exporters. Let’s see the top 10 basmati rice exporters. 

1. Shree Krishna Exports

2. KRBL Limited

3. Mahavir Rice & Gen. Mills

4. Shri Lal Mahal

5. Rohit Exports

6. Ajy Global Trade

7. Meer Overseas Export

8. SM Oversea INC

9. Galore Impex

10. Amar Singh Chawal Wala

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Basmati Rice Export from India

If you are planning to start a Basmati rice export business from India, here we will try to tell you the key steps in the simplest way that will help you set up and run this business easily. Let's know:

1. Set up your business legally: This is the very first step if you want to start a rice export business then you must first register your business with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and after that obtain an Import Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). IEC is a mandatory requirement to carry out any export activity in India.

2. Obtain the required licenses and certifications: In the second step, you have to apply for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license. You will also need food safety certifications like ISO 22000 and HACCP. Additionally, obtain a phytosanitary certificate to meet export regulations for agricultural produce.

3. Source quality basmati rice: In the third step, you now partner with reliable Indian rice mills or farmers who provide basmati rice that meets international quality standards. And ensure that the product matches global preferences in terms of grain length, aroma, and purity.

4. Do market research and find buyers: After checking the quality, market research is the next important step. Now you can identify high-demand regions like the Middle East, Europe, and North America. For this, you can use export-import data, attend international trade fairs, or use platforms like Tradologie.com to connect with verified global buyers.

5. Packaging and Documentation: Documentation becomes the most important step for any new entrant in the business and exporting is almost impossible without a good package method. You can use export-grade packaging to maintain the quality of rice during transit. And you should prepare all shipping documents including commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading and other customs-related paperwork.

6. Manage Shipping and Logistics: In the next step, you coordinate with freight forwarders or logistics partners to handle international shipping and port processes. Understand export regulations, duties, and ensure timely delivery with proper tracking.

7. Clear Customs at Origin and Destination: The last and most important step that a businessman must take into account is to work closely with clearing agents to handle customs documentation in both India and the importing country. This will help you avoid delays or rejections by complying with the rules.

How to Find Global Buyers for Basmati Rice?

To find genuine basmati rice importers across the globe, Tradologie.com is your go-to platform. As the world’s first AI-powered B2B SaaS platform for bulk trade, it connects you directly with verified international buyers of basmati rice, eliminating middlemen and ensuring real-time negotiations.

This platform provides reliable and up-to-date insights on global demand trends, buyer requirements, and basmati rice price. The platform allows you to showcase your product to thousands of active international genuine buyers while ensuring complete transparency and secure trade facilitation.

Whether you're an established exporter or a new business looking to grow globally, Tradologie.com helps you tap into high-potential markets such as the Middle East, Europe, and North America with ease.

Conclusion

In summary, India's dominance in the global Basmati rice market is expected to continue in 2025, supported by growing demand, strong trade relationships, and a reputation for premium quality rice. With the right export regulations, certification, and the right knowledge of global buyer trends, Indian exporters can capitalize on the massive opportunities in the Basmati rice trade.

If you are planning to start or grow your Basmati rice export business, platforms like Tradologie.com can be the most strategic partner for you. The platform makes wholesale trading seamless and efficient by connecting you directly to genuine buyers from over 100 countries and facilitating real-time interactions without intermediaries.

Whether you are an experienced Basmati rice exporter or just entering the global market, this is the perfect time to increase your presence and profits in the Basmati rice export industry.