Kolkata: In a significant move, the Indian government has lifted the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice, effective immediately, according to an official notification released on Friday. The ban, initially imposed in July 2023, was aimed at ensuring domestic supply and controlling rice prices in the face of inflationary pressures.
The decision has been widely welcomed by exporters, who have dubbed it a “game-changer” for the agricultural sector. Suraj Agarwal, CEO of Rice Villa, remarked, “India’s bold decision to lift restrictions on non-basmati white rice exports is a game-changer for the agricultural sector. This strategic move will not only boost the income of exporters but also empower farmers, who can expect higher returns with the impending arrival of the new kharif crop.”
In addition to lifting the ban, the government has also reduced the export duty on parboiled rice from 20 percent to 10 percent, a move that is expected to further enhance the competitiveness of Indian rice in global markets.
Keshab Kr Halder of the Halder Group, a prominent rice exporter who had been advocating for the removal of the ban, also lauded the government’s decision, stating that it will rejuvenate the rice export market and bring much-needed relief to farmers and exporters alike.
The removal of the export restrictions comes at a crucial time, as India remains one of the world’s largest rice exporters. The ban had raised concerns among international buyers and import-dependent nations, but the recent decision is expected to stabilize global rice supplies and ease international market concerns. This development is seen as a strategic step to balance domestic supply concerns with the growing demand for Indian rice on the global stage, benefiting both farmers and exporters.