BIRC 2025 to boost India’s rice exports, Targeting $25 Billion deals

India is intensifying its efforts to expand rice exports by targeting 26 new international markets, including the Philippines, Indonesia, the UK, and Mexico. This initiative was announced by Abhishek Dev, Chairman of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), on October 24, 2025. APEDA, a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, plays a pivotal role in promoting the export of agricultural and processed food products from India.

In September 2025, India's rice exports surged by 33.18% to USD 925 million, and during the April–September period, exports increased by 10% to USD 5.63 billion. India is one of the world's largest producers and exporters of rice, supplying to over 172 countries. The country produced approximately 150 million tonnes of rice in the 2024 - 25 fiscal year, accounting for about 28% of global output. Average yields have improved from 2.72 tonnes per hectare in 2014–15 to about 3.2 tonnes per hectare in 2024–25, driven by improved seed varieties, better agronomic practices, and expanded irrigation coverage.

To further bolster its position in the global rice market, India is set to host the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025 on October 30–31 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Organized by the Indian Rice Exporters' Federation (IREF) in collaboration with APEDA, the conference aims to bring together over 3,000 farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), more than 1,000 foreign buyers from over 80 countries, and 2,500 exporters, millers, and allied industries. The event will serve as a platform to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and resilience in the global rice trade. Key objectives include unlocking ₹1.80 lakh crore in new rice import markets and facilitating the signing of ₹25,000 crore worth of export Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

The conference will also showcase innovations and technological advancements in rice cultivation and trade, bolstering India's role in the global rice market. Stakeholders will have the opportunity to exchange knowledge, explore market trends, and promote India's rice capabilities globally. Through these concerted efforts, India aims to enhance its presence in the global rice market, tapping into new opportunities and fostering stronger international trade relationships.