India is gearing up for a major leap in its rice export strategy, with plans to expand its footprint to 26 new international markets. This ambitious move will strengthen India’s position as the world’s leading rice supplier, with targeted outreach to countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Mexico, the United States, China, Japan, France, Brazil, and South Africa many of which currently import significant volumes of rice from India’s competitors like Pakistan. During the first half of FY 2024–25, India’s rice exports surged by nearly 10%, reaching a value of USD 5.63 billion. The month of September alone witnessed a 33% year-on-year jump, reflecting robust global demand, sound export policies, and the country’s enhanced production capabilities. India’s Strong Production Base India continues to dominate the global rice market as one of the largest producers and exporters, supplying rice to over 172 countries worldwide. In the current year, India has recorded an estimated 150 lakh tonnes of rice production — nearly 28% of global output. Rice is cultivated across 47 lakh hectares in India, supported by the adoption of high-quality seeds, modern farming technologies, and expanded irrigation facilities. Average productivity has shown consistent improvement rising from 2.7 tonnes per hectare a decade ago to 3.2 tonnes per hectare today underscoring the success of progressive agricultural policies and technological interventions. India International Rice Conference 2025 In this context, India will host the India International Rice Conference 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, organized jointly by the All India Rice Exporters Association (AIREA) and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). The two-day global event aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in international rice trade while showcasing India’s agricultural strength. The conference will bring together farmers, exporters, importers, policymakers, researchers, financial institutions, logistics companies, and allied industries under one platform. According to the Ministry of Commerce, the event is expected to identify new export opportunities worth approximately ₹1.80 lakh crore, with potential export agreements totaling ₹25,000 crore likely to be signed during the conference. Global Participation and Impact The conference anticipates participation from around 3,000 farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), 1,000 overseas buyers from over 80 countries, and approximately 2,500 exporters, millers, and associated stakeholders. This landmark event will serve as a gateway for Indian farmers and exporters to strengthen their presence in the global food supply chain, driving inclusive growth and new trade collaborations. In the previous year, India exported 20.1 lakh metric tonnes of rice, valued at nearly USD 12.95 billion. With the current growth momentum and diversification strategy, India is expected to consolidate its leadership not only in traditional markets but also in newly emerging economies across the world.