Government approves export of one million tonnes of non-Basmati rice

On October 19, 2023, the Central Government has decided to lift the restrictions imposed on the export of non-Basmati rice. With this decision, the government will be able to export it to seven countries including Nepal, Cameroon and Malaysia.

Export of 10,34,800 tonnes of non-Basmati rice:

• By lifting the ban on export of non-Basmati rice, the government has allowed export of 10,34,800 tonnes of non-Basmati rice to seven countries including Nepal, Cameroon and Malaysia.
• Keeping in view the food security needs of some countries, the government has allowed export of non-Basmati rice to them.

Rice will also be exported to four African countries:

• According to a notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), permission has been given to export 10,34,800 tonnes of non-Basmati rice to seven countries.
• These countries include Nepal, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea, Malaysia, Philippines and Seychelles. These include four African countries.
• According to the notification of DGFT, this export is done by National Cooperative Export Limited. This can be done through (NCEL).

Why did the government ban the export of non-Basmati rice?

• According to DGFT, India had imposed a ban on export of non-Basmati rice from July 20, 2023 to increase domestic supply.
• But keeping in mind the food security needs of some countries, the government has allowed export of non-Basmati rice to them.

How many tons of rice will be exported to which countries?

• As per notification of DGFT: 
  • 95 thousand tons to Nepal,
  • 190,000 tonnes to Cameroon,
  • 142,000 tonnes to Côte d'Ivoire,
  • 1,42,000 tonnes to Guinea,
  • 1,70,000 tonnes to Malaysia,
  • 2,95,000 tonnes more to Philippines
  • 800 tonnes of non-Basmati rice will be exported to Seychelles.

India is the world's largest rice exporter:

• India is the world's largest rice exporter. Last month, a ban on export of non-Basmati i.e. white rice was imposed to control rising prices of rice domestically and ensure food security.

20 percent duty on export of boiled rice:

• At present, along with the ban on export of rice, 20 percent duty is also applicable on the export of boiled rice.