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Non-Basmati Rice Export Complete Guide 2026: Varieties, Markets, Documentation & Profitability

India stands tall as the world’s largest rice exporter, dominating global markets with an impressive 30.3% market share. While premium basmati rice often steals the spotlight, non-basmati rice is the true volume king, accounting for a substantial 80% of India’s rice exports. For exporters looking to tap into the lucrative global rice trade valued at over $39 billion annually, understanding the non-basmati rice export landscape is essential for success.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about exporting non-basmati rice from India in 2026, from varieties and pricing to documentation, market opportunities, and profitability strategies.

Understanding Non-Basmati Rice: The Export Powerhouse

Non-basmati rice refers to all rice varieties that don’t belong to the aromatic basmati family. While these varieties lack the characteristic fragrance of basmati, they are highly valued for their practicality, versatility, nutritional content, and most importantly, their affordability.

Why Non-Basmati Rice Dominates Export Volumes

Non-basmati rice represents the backbone of India’s rice export industry for several compelling reasons:

Volume Leadership: India exported approximately 17.6 million metric tons of non-basmati rice in 2025, representing 70% of total rice export volumes and valued at nearly $10.2 billion. Projections for 2026 suggest continued growth, with exports expected to reach 18-19 million metric tons.

Price Competitiveness: Non-basmati varieties are priced between $300-$500 per metric ton FOB, making them 50-70% cheaper than basmati rice while still delivering quality and consistency.

Staple Food Security: Non-basmati rice serves as a dietary staple for billions worldwide, particularly in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, where price-sensitive markets prioritize affordability and availability.

Diverse Applications: From everyday meals to industrial food processing, non-basmati rice’s versatility makes it indispensable across multiple culinary traditions and food manufacturing sectors.

Non-Basmati Rice Export

Top Non-Basmati Rice Varieties for Export in 2026

India cultivates a wide spectrum of non-basmati varieties, each with distinct characteristics that appeal to different international markets. Understanding these varieties is crucial for matching the right product to the right buyer.

1. IR-64 (International Rice 64)

Market Position: The undisputed champion of Indian non-basmati exports, IR-64 accounts for approximately 40-45% of total non-basmati shipments.

Characteristics:

Processing Forms:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates):

Key Export Markets: Africa (Nigeria, Benin, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire), Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq), Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines), Bangladesh

Best Applications: Daily consumption rice, institutional catering, fried rice, biryani, African jollof rice, food aid programs

2. Sona Masoori

Market Position: The premium non-basmati variety, commanding 15-20% higher prices than IR-64 while remaining significantly cheaper than basmati.

Characteristics:

Processing Forms:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates):

Key Export Markets: USA (54% market share among non-basmati varieties), UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UK, Canada, Australia

Best Applications: South Indian cuisine (idli, dosa), everyday meals, pulao, rice salads, health-conscious consumers

Why It’s Popular: Sona Masoori bridges the gap between commodity-grade rice and premium segments, offering superior quality at mid-tier pricing—ideal for diaspora markets and quality-conscious buyers on a budget.

3. Ponni Rice

Market Position: The “comfort rice” of South India, representing 8-10% of non-basmati exports with strong regional loyalty.

Characteristics:

Processing Forms:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates):

Key Export Markets: Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Middle East (Tamil diaspora), USA, UK

Best Applications: Traditional South Indian dishes, temple offerings, comfort food preparations, rice-based desserts

4. Swarna Rice

Market Position: The budget-friendly workhorse, accounting for 10-12% of exports, particularly to price-sensitive markets.

Characteristics:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates):

Key Export Markets: Bangladesh, Nepal, African nations (bulk buyers), institutional buyers

Best Applications: Bulk institutional catering, food processing, budget retail packs

5. PR-11 and PR-14 (Pusa Rice)

Characteristics:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates): $360-$410/MT

Key Export Markets: Middle East, Africa, Bangladesh

6. Parboiled Rice (Various Varieties)

Market Significance: Parboiled rice represents 40-45% of India’s non-basmati exports (approximately 9 million metric tons), valued at $4-5 billion annually.

Why Parboiling Matters:

Key Parboiled Varieties for Export:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates): $380-$450/MT depending on variety and broken percentage

7. Broken Rice

Market Position: Often overlooked but highly profitable, broken rice exports account for approximately 1 million metric tons annually.

Broken Rice Categories:

Export Pricing (2026 FOB rates):

Applications: Animal feed, poultry feed, brewing industry, rice flour manufacturing, snack food production, ethanol production

Key Markets: China, Vietnam, Senegal, Philippines

Global Market Dynamics: Where to Sell Non-Basmati Rice in 2026

Understanding regional demand patterns, preferences, and buying behaviors is crucial for export success. Non-basmati rice enjoys robust demand across multiple continents, each with distinct requirements.

Africa: The Volume Powerhouse (40% of Global Non-Basmati Imports)

Africa represents the single largest market for Indian non-basmati rice, importing over 7 million metric tons annually. The continent’s rapidly growing population, urbanization, and rice consumption habits create massive opportunities.

Top Importing Countries:

  1. Benin: 1.2-1.5 million MT annually (re-export hub for West Africa)
  2. Senegal: 800,000-1 million MT
  3. Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast): 700,000-900,000 MT
  4. Nigeria: 600,000-800,000 MT (despite local production efforts)
  5. Togo: 400,000-600,000 MT
  6. Guinea: 300,000-400,000 MT
  7. Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Burkina Faso: 200,000-400,000 MT each

Preferred Varieties:

Pricing Sensitivity: Extremely high—African buyers prioritize competitive pricing over premium quality, with typical purchase prices ranging $350-$420/MT CFR.

Key Buying Patterns:

Why Africa Matters: West Africa’s rice consumption is projected to reach 35 million tons by 2030, with domestic production covering only 60%, creating a sustained 14 million ton import opportunity.

Middle East: The Value-Conscious Premium Segment (25% Market Share)

The Middle East represents a sweet spot for non-basmati exports—buyers who want better quality than commodity grade but aren’t willing to pay basmati premiums.

Top Importing Countries:

  1. Saudi Arabia: 800,000-1 million MT (largest Middle Eastern importer)
  2. UAE: 600,000-800,000 MT (re-export hub)
  3. Iraq: 400,000-600,000 MT
  4. Yemen: 300,000-500,000 MT
  5. Jordan, Kuwait, Oman: 200,000-400,000 MT combined

Preferred Varieties:

Pricing Range: $400-$470/MT CFR

Key Requirements:

Market Trends:

Southeast Asia: The Competitive Battleground (20% Market Share)

Southeast Asia presents both opportunities and challenges, as the region has its own rice producers (Thailand, Vietnam) but still imports for specific varieties and shortfalls.

Key Importing Markets:

  1. Malaysia: 500,000-700,000 MT annually
  2. Indonesia: 400,000-600,000 MT (supplementing local production)
  3. Philippines: 300,000-500,000 MT
  4. Singapore: 150,000-200,000 MT (re-export and consumption)

Preferred Varieties:

Competitive Landscape: Indian exporters compete directly with Thai jasmine rice and Vietnamese long grain varieties. Success requires:

Market Dynamics:

Bangladesh: The Neighboring Giant (10% of Non-Basmati Imports)

Bangladesh imports 1.2-1.5 million MT of non-basmati rice annually despite being a major producer, due to seasonal shortfalls and quality preferences.

Preferred Varieties:

Advantages for Indian Exporters:

Pricing: $360-$410/MT CFR

Key Considerations:

Emerging Markets with High Growth Potential

Europe (UK, Germany, Netherlands): 150,000-250,000 MT combined

North America (USA, Canada): 200,000-300,000 MT

China: Selective imports (200,000-400,000 MT)

Export Pricing Strategies and Profit Margins in 2026

Understanding pricing dynamics is critical for profitability in the competitive non-basmati export market.

Current FOB Pricing (Mundra/JNPT Port – 2026)

VarietySpecificationFOB Price Range (USD/MT)
IR-64 Parboiled5% broken$380-$420
IR-64 Raw/White5% broken$350-$390
IR-64 Broken100% broken$280-$320
Sona Masoori Steam5% broken$420-$470
Sona Masoori Raw5% broken$400-$450
Ponni BoiledPremium$470-$520
Swarna Parboiled5% broken$340-$380
PR-11/145% broken$360-$410

Cost Structure Analysis (Per Metric Ton)

For IR-64 Parboiled (5% broken) – Example:

Procurement & Processing:

Export Logistics & Documentation:

Total Cost: $284-$340 per MT

FOB Selling Price: $380-$420 per MT

Gross Profit Margin: $40-$136 per MT (10.5-35% margin)

Note: Margins vary significantly based on:

Profitability Strategies

High-Volume, Low-Margin Strategy:

Mid-Volume, Quality-Focused Strategy:

Premium, Niche Strategy:

Step-by-Step Export Process: From Registration to Shipment

Successfully exporting non-basmati rice requires navigating a series of legal, documentation, and logistical steps. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown.

Phase 1: Business Setup and Registrations (4-8 Weeks)

1. Importer Exporter Code (IEC)

The IEC is your export license, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Without an IEC, you cannot legally export from India.

How to Obtain:

2. FSSAI Registration/License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license ensures your rice meets food safety standards.

Types:

Required for Export: State or Central License recommended

How to Obtain:

3. APEDA Registration

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) registration is mandatory for rice exporters as rice is a scheduled product under APEDA.

How to Obtain:

Benefits:

4. GST Registration

Goods and Services Tax registration is mandatory for export businesses.

Benefits:

How to Obtain:

5. Additional Recommended Registrations:

Phase 2: Sourcing and Quality Assurance (Ongoing)

1. Establish Procurement Networks

Options:

Key Sourcing Regions:

2. Processing and Milling

Options:

Quality Parameters to Monitor:

3. Laboratory Testing

Mandatory Tests:

Testing Facilities:

Cost: ₹5,000-₹15,000 per sample set

Phase 3: Finding Buyers and Negotiating Contracts (2-12 Weeks)

1. Buyer Discovery Channels

B2B Platforms:

Trade Shows and Exhibitions:

Direct Outreach:

2. Contract Negotiation

Key Terms to Define:

Phase 4: Documentation and Compliance (1-2 Weeks per Shipment)

Essential Export Documents:

1. Commercial Invoice

2. Packing List

3. Bill of Lading (B/L) or Airway Bill

4. Certificate of Origin

5. Phytosanitary Certificate

6. FSSAI Certificate

7. APEDA RCMC Certificate

8. Quality Certificate

9. Fumigation Certificate (if applicable)

10. Insurance Certificate (for CIF terms)

11. Export Declaration Form

Country-Specific Requirements:

For USA:

For EU:

For Middle East:

For China:

Phase 5: Packaging and Labeling (Integrated with Processing)

Standard Export Packaging:

Bulk Packaging (Most Common):

Retail Packaging (For developed markets):

Labeling Requirements:

Mandatory Information:

Optional but Recommended:

Language: English standard; Arabic, French, or local language for specific markets

Phase 6: Logistics and Shipping (2-6 Weeks)

1. Choosing Shipping Method

Sea Freight (95% of rice exports):

Key Shipping Routes and Transit Times:

Air Freight (Rare for bulk rice, used for samples or urgent retail orders):

2. Major Indian Export Ports for Rice

Mundra Port (Gujarat): Largest private port, handles 40% of rice exports JNPT – Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Mumbai): Major public port, excellent connectivity Kakinada Port (Andhra Pradesh): Proximity to South Indian rice belt Vishakhapatnam Port: Alternative for Andhra/Telangana shipments Kolkata Port: For Bangladesh and Southeast Asian shipments Tuticorin Port (Tamil Nadu): For southern varieties

3. Customs Clearance Process

Export Procedure:

Timeline: 2-5 days at port (faster with experienced clearing agents)

Recommended: Hire a customs clearing agent (CHA) – Cost: ₹5,000-₹15,000 per shipment

Phase 7: Payment Collection and Post-Shipment (1-12 Weeks)

Payment Methods:

1. Letter of Credit (LC) – Most Secure

2. Advance Payment

3. Credit Terms (30-90 days)

Post-Shipment Requirements:

Government Support and Export Incentive Schemes (2026)

The Indian government offers multiple schemes to support rice exporters and improve competitiveness.

1. RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products)

What It Is: Refunds various embedded central, state, and local duties/taxes that are not refunded through GST.

For Non-Basmati Rice: 1.2-1.4% of FOB value (rates vary by product classification)

How to Claim:

Benefit Example: On a $400,000 shipment (1,000 MT @ $400/MT), RoDTEP benefit = $4,800-$5,600

2. Interest Equalization Scheme

What It Is: Pre-shipment and post-shipment export credit interest subvention to make Indian exports more competitive.

Current Rate: 2% interest subvention on export credit

Eligibility: All exporters (with higher rates for MSME exporters)

How It Works:

Benefit Example: On ₹2 crore export credit for 90 days at 10% annual interest, you save approximately ₹90,000 annually.

3. Market Development Assistance (MDA) – APEDA

What It Is: Financial assistance for participating in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and market development activities.

Support Includes:

4. Vishwakarma Scheme and PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME)

What It Is: Financial support for setting up or upgrading rice processing and milling facilities.

Support:

5. Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme

What It Is: Allows duty-free import of capital goods (milling machinery, sorting equipment, packaging machines) for export production.

Condition: Must fulfill export obligation equal to 6 times the duty saved over 6 years.

Quality Standards and Certifications That Matter

Meeting and exceeding quality standards is crucial for sustained export success and premium pricing.

International Quality Standards

ISO 22000: Food Safety Management System

HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point)

BRC Global Standard (British Retail Consortium)

Organic Certifications

India Organic (NPOP – National Programme for Organic Production):

USDA Organic:

EU Organic:

Halal Certification

Fair Trade Certification

Common Challenges in Non-Basmati Rice Export and Solutions

Understanding potential pitfalls helps you navigate the export journey more smoothly.

Challenge 1: Payment Defaults and Credit Risk

Problem: Buyers in some markets (particularly in Africa) may delay payments or default.

Solutions:

Challenge 2: Quality Disputes and Rejections

Problem: Buyers claim quality issues upon arrival, demanding discounts or rejecting shipments.

Solutions:

Challenge 3: Fluctuating Prices and Market Volatility

Problem: Rice prices can fluctuate 10-20% within a few months due to monsoons, government policies, global demand.

Solutions:

Challenge 4: Documentation and Compliance Complexity

Problem: Missing documents, errors, or non-compliance can cause customs delays, penalties, or shipment rejection.

Solutions:

Challenge 5: Competition from Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan

Problem: These countries also export large volumes of non-basmati rice, often at competitive prices.

Solutions:

Challenge 6: Logistics and Port Congestion

Problem: Port delays, container shortages, and freight cost fluctuations impact timely delivery and profitability.

Solutions:

Success Stories: Indian Non-Basmati Rice Exporters

KRBL Limited

LT Foods (Daawat)

REI Agro Limited

Lessons from Success Stories:

  1. Vertical integration improves margins and quality control
  2. Brand development commands premium pricing
  3. Diversification across varieties and markets reduces risk
  4. Investment in certifications opens premium markets
  5. Long-term buyer relationships ensure stable demand

Future Trends in Non-Basmati Rice Export (2026-2030)

1. Growing Demand from Africa

Africa’s population is projected to reach 1.8 billion by 2030, with rice consumption growing 5-6% annually. This represents a sustained 15+ million ton import opportunity.

2. Premium and Organic Segments Expanding

Global organic food market growing at 12% CAGR. Organic non-basmati rice exports could grow from current 50,000 MT to 200,000+ MT by 2030, commanding 25-40% price premiums.

3. Climate-Smart Varieties

Growing demand for drought-resistant, low-water consumption varieties as water scarcity increases globally. Exporters who can certify sustainable farming practices will have competitive advantage.

4. Retail Brand Development

Shift from bulk commodity exports to branded retail packs in developed markets. Private labeling and direct-to-consumer channels (e-commerce) growing rapidly.

5. Technology Integration

Blockchain for traceability, AI-powered quality sorting, digital marketplaces connecting farmers to exporters, and fintech solutions for payment security transforming the industry.

6. Government Policy Evolution

Watch for changes in:

7. Value Addition Opportunities

Moving beyond raw rice exports to:

Expert Tips for First-Time Exporters

  1. Start Small, Scale Gradually: Begin with trial shipments (100-300 MT) to test markets and build experience before committing to large volumes.
  2. Choose Your Niche: Don’t try to compete in all segments simultaneously. Focus on one variety (e.g., Sona Masoori) and 2-3 target markets initially.
  3. Invest in Relationships: Rice export is a relationship business. Attend trade shows, visit importers, maintain regular communication.
  4. Never Compromise on Quality: One quality failure can destroy your reputation permanently. Consistent quality builds long-term business.
  5. Maintain Strong Cash Flow: Export business requires significant working capital (procurement, processing, shipping). Ensure adequate funding through bank credit lines or investor capital.
  6. Stay Compliant: Regulations change frequently. Subscribe to APEDA updates, join exporter associations, consult with experienced clearing agents.
  7. Document Everything: Maintain meticulous records of all transactions, contracts, quality tests, and communications. This protects you in disputes.
  8. Understand Cultural Nuances: Different markets have different business practices. What works in Middle East may not work in Africa. Adapt your approach.
  9. Build a Strong Team: You need expertise in procurement, quality control, documentation, logistics, and international business development. Invest in skilled professionals or partners.
  10. Be Patient and Persistent: First export success may take 6-12 months. Many initial leads don’t convert. Persistence and consistency pay off.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to Non-Basmati Rice Export Success

The non-basmati rice export industry represents a $10+ billion annual opportunity for Indian exporters, with strong growth trajectory fueled by global population expansion, increasing rice consumption, and India’s competitive advantages in production and quality.

Success in this industry requires a combination of:

Whether you’re targeting high-volume African markets with IR-64 parboiled rice, premium Middle Eastern segments with Sona Masoori, or niche organic markets in Europe and North America, the fundamentals remain the same: deliver consistent quality, maintain competitive pricing, ensure timely delivery, and build lasting relationships.

The journey from obtaining your IEC to landing your first container can seem daunting, but thousands of Indian exporters have successfully navigated this path. With proper preparation, the right partnerships, and unwavering commitment to quality and compliance, you too can establish a profitable non-basmati rice export business that contributes to India’s growing presence in global food markets.

India’s position as the world’s largest rice exporter is not just a statistic—it’s an opportunity waiting for entrepreneurs like you to seize. The global appetite for Indian rice continues to grow, and 2026 presents an optimal time to enter or expand in this dynamic industry.

About Sadbhaav Spices

At Sadbhaav Spices, we bring decades of experience in sourcing premium non-basmati rice varieties directly from India’s most productive rice belts. Our deep understanding of quality standards, export documentation, and international market requirements ensures your export journey is smooth and profitable. From IR-64 to Sona Masoori, from bulk commodity shipments to retail-ready branded packs, we support exporters and importers with end-to-end solutions.

Ready to start your non-basmati rice export journey? Contact our export specialists today for personalized guidance and competitive quotations.

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