Indian Exporters Cheer Bangladesh’s Rice Import Plans

21-Jul-2025 11:21 AM

Indian rice exporters are optimistic following Bangladesh’s announcement of plans to import 9 lakh tonnes of rice to strengthen its domestic food security. Since Bangladesh traditionally relies on Indian rice, this decision has generated excitement among Indian millers and traders, especially in West Bengal.

Industry analysts expect the move to boost demand and prices for Indian rice. India, being the world’s largest rice exporter with a 46% share in global trade, has a competitive advantage in supplying to Bangladesh due to geographic proximity and ample stock availability.

Out of the 9 lakh tonnes, Bangladesh’s government will procure 4 lakh tonnes through international tenders, while private traders are expected to import the remaining 5 lakh tonnes—largely from India. The import decision was made earlier than usual due to expected damage to Bangladesh’s Aman paddy crop from ongoing heavy rains and floods.

Rice millers in West Bengal are particularly well-positioned to benefit from this development, as the state shares a border with Bangladesh and enjoys logistical ease.

Although India has imposed restrictions on cloth and jute exports through the Petrapole border, rice shipments will continue unaffected, ensuring smooth trade flow.

Analysts estimate that 30–40% of the rice to be imported by private Bangladeshi traders could come from West Bengal. Moreover, Bengal’s millers and traders may also participate in Bangladesh’s government tenders. States such as Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bihar are also likely to benefit from the surge in export opportunities.