NEW DELHI : India is contemplating a potential prohibition on the export of numerous rice varieties. This proposed measure, if implemented, could further elevate the already soaring global prices of this vital food staple, particularly as the disruptive El Niño weather phenomenon reemerges. India is the largest exporter of rice in the world.

Government officials are currently engaged in discussions concerning a plan to restrict the export of non-Basmati rice, as disclosed to Bloomberg by individuals knowledgeable about the matter.  

The motive behind this proposal, according to these insiders who requested anonymity due to the confidentiality of the information, is to mitigate the risk of heightened inflation ahead of upcoming elections.

India’s decision to ban rice exports will have a significant impact, affecting approximately 80% of the India’s rice exports. While this move may potentially lower domestic prices, it carries the risk of causing global costs to surge even higher. 

Rice stands as a crucial staple for approximately half of the global population, with Asia alone accounting for about 90% of the world’s rice consumption. 

Concerns over the return of the El Niño weather phenomenon have already driven benchmark prices to a two-year high, heightening fears of potential crop damage and exacerbating the upward trajectory of prices in the global rice market.

India, a dominant player in the global rice trade, holds a substantial share of approximately 40%. In recent times, the country has taken measures to strengthen control over the trade of certain rice varieties. Notably, India implemented a ban on the export of broken rice in 2022. 

Also , a 20% duty was imposed on shipments of white and brown rice, in response to the surge in food staple prices, triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, impacting commodities such as wheat and corn. Furthermore, India has imposed limitations on exports of wheat and sugar, indicating a concerted effort to regulate the trade of these essential food commodities.