No more ban on export of non-Basmati white rice, government lifts minimum export price

New Delhi| The central government removed the minimum export price (MEP) of $490 per tone applicable to foreign exports of non-Basmati white rice. This step has been taken with the aim of promoting the export of this commodity. Earlier on 28 September, the government had lifted the ban on foreign exports of non-Basmati white rice and implemented the Minimum Price for Export (MEP). “The MEP requirement for export of non-Basmati white rice has been removed with immediate effect”, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said in a notification

The government had banned the export of non-Basmati rice on 20 July 2023, now any restrictions on it have been lifted. These steps have been taken at a time when there is adequate stock of rice in government warehouses in the country and retail prices are also under control.

Earlier, the government had abolished the minimum export price of Basmati rice to promote exports and increase the income of farmers. The country exported non-Basmati white rice worth USD 201 million during April-August in the current fiscal year. In 2023-24, the figure was USD 852.52 million.

Despite the ban on exports, the government was allowing rice exports to Maldives, Mauritius, United Arab Emirates and African countries on friendly grounds. This variety of rice is widely eaten in India and is also in demand in global markets, especially in countries where a large number of Indian expatriates live. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has disrupted food supply chains across the world.