India permits the export of 14,000 tonnes of non-basmati white rice to Mauritius amid food security measures while maintaining the non-basmati rice’s prohibited status and extending the 20% export duty on parboiled rice.
New Delhi: According to an official notification, the Indian government has approved the export of 14,000 tonnes of non-basmati white rice to Mauritius.
This decision is noteworthy, considering the July 2023 ban on exporting this rice variety, which was imposed to regulate domestic prices and ensure national food security.
According to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), these exports will be managed through the National Cooperative Exports Limited.
This step follows earlier exceptions made by the government, which allowed the export of non-basmati rice to countries like Nepal, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, the Republic of Guinea, Malaysia, and others, albeit with varying limits.
While amending the rice export policy, the DGFT clarified that such exports would only be permitted upon receiving specific government authorization, ensuring they address the food security needs of requesting nations.
West Africa remains a significant destination for non-basmati rice exports from India, with Benin leading as a major importer.
Other prominent importers include the UAE, Nepal, Bangladesh, China, and various West African and Southeast Asia countries.
In late August, India introduced additional safeguards by imposing a minimum floor price on basmati rice exports.
This measure was intended to prevent unauthorized exports of non-basmati white rice, which has been prohibited since July.
Furthermore, the government has extended the 20% export duty on parboiled rice until March 31, 2024.
Parboiled rice is partially boiled with its husk intact, a process that maintains higher nutritional value.
This strategic export policy ensures that India’s rice exports support international food needs while safeguarding domestic supply and prices.
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