India, the world’s largest rice exporter, is set to ship a record 23.4 million tonnes of rice in the 2025-26 season, a 2% increase from last year. This is driven by strong demand from African countries and growing shipments to Pacific Asia, including the Philippines and Malaysia. India is expected to account for over one-third of the global rice trade. Last year, India exported 19.86 million tonnes, up from 16.35 million tonnes in 2024. 

Reason for the rise in exports

This report comes despite severe floods in Punjab and Haryana, which produce most of India’s long-grain basmati rice. Experts say India’s wide rice-growing areas in eastern and southern states help make up for the losses. Exporters are likely to source more rice from states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh to meet global demand. Basmati rice exports are projected at 6.5 million tonnes, up from 6.06 million tonnes last year.

Paddy sowing has also increased this season to 43.85 million hectares. Higher stock levels and slightly lower consumption globally are helping trade remain stable, giving India a chance to strengthen its position in rice exports.

India exports premium basmati rice to West Asia and Europe, while sending cheaper non-basmati rice to African countries. Despite weather challenges, experts expect India’s rice exports to stay strong. Other crops are also seeing growth globally: wheat production may reach a record 819 million tonnes, maize is up 5%, and soybean imports are expected to rise due to higher demand from China.

Rice remains India’s most important export crop, balancing domestic food needs with earnings from overseas sales. India’s ability to handle local weather shocks while meeting international demand highlights its key role in global food security. At the WTO, India is also pushing for more transparency in global farm trade, questioning programs from countries like the US, Australia, and Japan to make sure farm policies are fair for all nations.