Urgent Appeal to Commerce Minister Regarding Rice Export Dispute with China

18-Aug-2026 04:23 PM

New Delhi. Consignments of Indian rice are being rejected in China on the grounds that they contain traces of GM (Genetically Modified) rice. Citing this reason, the Chinese government has also suspended the licenses of 5-6 Indian rice exporters. This has created an atmosphere of panic among exporters, who are urging the Union Commerce Minister to intervene immediately in the matter.

According to the Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh, China has suspended the registration of seven Indian rice exporters based on allegations that are entirely baseless and incorrect. The Central Government should raise this issue firmly with China, as it is a well-known fact that the production, trade, use, and import of GM rice do not take place in India.

The Association notes that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) have already clarified that commercial production of GM rice is not permitted in India. Furthermore, the consignments rejected on the pretext of containing traces of GM rice had already undergone testing at Indian ports prior to shipment, and the Chinese agency itself had granted clearance for them.

This is a case of technical discrepancy; consignments are certified as free from GM rice in India, yet complaints regarding the presence of GM rice arise in China. The Government of India should engage in detailed discussions with China to seek a resolution to this problem. India is willing and prepared to conduct appropriate technical testing and verification.