India Eyes New Markets in Rice Export Expansion at BIRC 2025

India is setting its sights on expanding its rice export destinations to fresh markets including the Philippines, Gambia, Liberia, and Ghana. This strategic ambition was revealed by Dev Garg, Vice President of the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF), at a press meeting leading up to The Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025.

Highlighting the event's significance, Garg announced a forecast of Rs 25,000 crore in memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to be finalized, involving collaborations with state governments, agricultural boards, and overseas importers. The conference aims to unveil cutting-edge AI technology designed to enhance rice grading efficiency, addressing previous market challenges faced by India’s geographical indication (GI) and non-basmati rice varieties.

Furthermore, the event will feature efforts by the National Cooperative Organics Limited to introduce 12 organic rice variants alongside a new online portal, with India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) showcasing a trade facilitation platform. The Government of Telangana plans to address its rice surplus via significant involvement, while Bihar will bring over 20 farmer producer organizations to the gathering.