India Allows Non-Basmati Rice Exports to Bhutan, Mauritius, and Singapore

India has some good news for rice lovers in Bhutan, Mauritius, and Singapore. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in the Government of India recently made a decision that allows non-basmati rice exports to these countries, totalling 1,43,000 metric tons (MTs), as of August 30, 2023.

Earlier, there was a temporary ban on exporting non-basmati white rice, starting from July 20, 2023, to ensure there was enough rice available within India. However, it can make exceptions for countries that face food security challenges if they request the rice and get government approval.

The National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) will manage the exports, following certain rules and regulations outlined in the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, and the Foreign Trade Policy, 2015 – 2020, as confirmed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Here’s how much rice is allowed to be exported:

• 79,000 MTs of non-basmati white rice to Bhutan
• 14,000 MTs of non-basmati white rice to Mauritius
• 50,000 MTs of non-basmati white rice to Singapore

Why Exporting Non-Basmati Rice Is Beneficial:

1. Strengthening Trade Ties: This decision is expected to make trade relationships between India and these three countries even better.
2. Boosting Agricultural Exports: It will help promote agricultural exports, which is good for India’s economy.
3. Meeting Market Demand: Bhutan, Mauritius, and Singapore really like non-basmati white rice. Exporting more will benefit Indian rice producers and exporters.

The Ministry encourages anyone interested in this to reach out to the National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) for more details and to make sure everything goes smoothly.

This decision is a positive step towards building better trade partnerships and supporting India’s agricultural sector.