Centre lifts ban on non-basmati white rice exports, exporters welcome the move
- In Reports
- 11:09 AM, Sep 28, 2024
- Myind Staff
The Central government has lifted the ban on the export of non-basmati white rice, effective immediately, according to an official notification issued on Friday. The ban was originally imposed in July 2023 to stabilise domestic rice supply and control rising prices.
Exporters have widely welcomed the government’s decision, viewing it as a significant boost for the agricultural and export sectors. "India’s bold decision to lift restrictions on non-basmati white rice exports is a game-changer for the agricultural sector,” said Suraj Agarwal, CEO of Rice Villa.
Agarwal emphasised that this move will not only benefit exporters but also farmers. “This strategic move will not only boost the income of exporters but also empower farmers, who can expect higher returns with the impending arrival of the new kharif crop,” he stated.
The export ban was initially introduced to safeguard domestic availability amid concerns about food security and rising inflation. However, with a strong harvest expected from the upcoming Kharif season, the government has decided to ease restrictions to promote trade and improve market opportunities for farmers and exporters.
In addition to lifting the ban on non-basmati white rice, the government has also revised export duties on parboiled rice, increasing it from 10 percent to 20 percent, as mentioned in the notification. This adjustment aims to regulate the supply and demand in the international rice market while ensuring the availability of rice for domestic consumers.
Keshab Kr Halder of Halder Group, another major rice exporter, praised the decision, noting that it will provide relief to the rice export industry, which had been seeking the removal of the ban. He lauded the move as timely and essential for the sector's growth.
The lifting of the ban is expected to open up significant trade opportunities for Indian exporters, potentially leading to higher revenues and benefiting farmers across the country.
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