Blog Details

Non-Basmati Rice Export from India: Step by step guide (2026)
Import Export

Wed, Dec 24 2025

Raju Karn

Non-Basmati Rice Export from India: Step by step guide (2026)

India has long been known as the world’s largest rice exporter, but in recent years, non-basmati rice export has become one of the most closely watched sectors due to frequent policy changes, export duties, and restrictions. Exporters often struggle to keep pace with India rice export policy change, sudden notifications, and compliance requirements.

Whether you are an existing exporter or planning to enter the rice export business in India, understanding the latest rules for non-basmati rice is critical to avoid shipment delays, penalties, or financial losses. This blog explains the current non-basmati rice export scenario, step-by-step process, duties, and practical insights.

Overview of Rice Export from India

India dominates the global rice trade due to:

  • Large production capacity
  • Competitive pricing
  • Strong demand from Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia

The rice export of India broadly includes:

  1. Basmati rice export
  2. Non-basmati rice export (white rice, broken rice, parboiled rice, etc.)

Among these, non-basmati rice export in India is more policy-sensitive as it directly affects domestic food security and inflation.

Current Non-Basmati Rice Export Policy (2025)

The Government of India regulates non-basmati rice exports under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and periodic DGFT notifications.

Key Highlights:

  • Export may be free, restricted, or prohibited depending on the variety
  • Minimum Export Price (MEP) may be imposed
  • Export duty may apply, especially on parboiled rice
  • Sudden bans can be announced to control domestic prices

This makes policy awareness more important than documentation alone.

Advantages of Non-Basmati Rice Export

  • High global demand
  • Competitive pricing
  • Large production base
  • Opportunity in emerging markets
  • Long-term export scalability

Documents Required for Non-Basmati Rice Export

To start rice export in India, you need:

  • Import Export Code (IEC)
  • GST registration
  • FSSAI registration (mandatory for food exports)
  • APEDA registration
  • Shipping bill
  • Commercial invoice & packing list
  • Certificate of origin
  • Phytosanitary certificate
  • Bill of lading / airway bill

Incomplete documentation is one of the top reasons for shipment delays.

Step-by-Step Process of Non-Basmati Rice Export

Step 1: Obtain Mandatory Registrations

IEC, GST, FSSAI, and APEDA are non-negotiable.

Step 2: Check Export Policy

Confirm whether the rice variety is free or restricted for export.

Step 3: Duty & MEP Calculation

Check current export duty and MEP if applicable.

Step 4: Buyer & Contract

Finalize overseas buyer and payment terms.

Step 5: Quality Testing & Certification

Obtain lab reports and phytosanitary certificates.

Step 6: Customs Clearance

File shipping bill and clear customs at port.

Step 7: Shipment & Payment Realization

Goods shipped and payment received through banking channels.

Parboiled Rice Export Duty Explained

  • Export duty may range between 0% to 20%
  • Applied to control excess exports
  • Duty structure can change overnight via notification
  • Exporters must calculate margins after duty impact

Failing to apply the correct duty can result in customs objections or penalties.

Who Can Export Non-Basmati Rice from India?

Any business entity can export rice, provided it has:

  • Valid business registration
  • Required export licenses
  • Compliance with DGFT and customs norms

Eligible entities include:

  • Proprietorship firms
  • Partnership firms
  • Private limited companies
  • LLPs
  • Merchant exporters

Real-Life Example: Policy Impact on an Exporter

A rice exporter from Haryana signed a contract to export non-basmati white rice to an African buyer. Midway through procurement, the government announced a sudden export restriction and imposed duty.

Because the exporter:

  • Had not checked real-time policy updates
  • Had no compliance advisor

The shipment was stuck at port, causing:

  • Demurrage charges
  • Contract penalties
  • Buyer trust issues

How PSR Compliance Helps in Non-Basmati Rice Export

  • Verifies non-basmati rice export eligibility as per DGFT guidelines
  • Supports APEDA registration and IEC application or updates
  • Provides guidance on export policies, MEP, and applicable duties
  • Assists with required export documentation
  • Helps with smooth customs clearance and port coordination
  • Reduces risk of penalties, delays, or non-compliance
  • Offers ongoing advisory support for compliant export growth

FAQs – Non-Basmati Rice Export

1. What is non-basmati rice export?
Export of non-aromatic rice varieties from India.

2. Is non-basmati rice export allowed from India?
Yes, subject to current policy and restrictions.

3. Is APEDA registration mandatory for rice export?
Yes, APEDA is mandatory.

4. What is parboiled rice export duty?
Duty imposed by the government to regulate exports.

5. Does non-basmati rice need FSSAI registration?
Yes, FSSAI is compulsory.

6. Can export policy change suddenly?
Yes, policy changes can happen overnight.

7. Is IEC required for rice export?
Yes, IEC is mandatory.

8. Which countries import non-basmati rice from India?
Africa, Middle East, Southeast Asia.

9. Is GST required for rice export?
Yes, GST registration is required.

10. Is rice export profitable in India?
Yes, if policy and compliance are managed properly.

Contact Us

Start a New Case? Contact
Our Experts

Just send us your questions or concerns by starting a new case &
we will give you the help you need. Start Here...

Have a Question?

070658 83416
  • Monday - Friday:
  • 9.00 - 6.00
  • Sunday & Public Holidays (Closed)
Request a Call Back