India’s rice export potential is set for a major boost as new international markets worth Rs 1,17,000 crore are expected to open up, thanks to the collaboration between the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC 2025).
The two-day event, scheduled for October 30–31 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, is projected to attract over 1,000 international buyers from more than 80 countries, 2,500 Indian exporters, 5,000 farmers, and over 200 institutions, including research bodies, financial institutions, millers, logistics providers, and agri-tech innovators.
In a landmark development, the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Uttar Pradesh has confirmed its participation as the Research and Knowledge Partner for BIRC 2025. The initiative aims to highlight the versatility of Indian rice and its suitability for international cuisines, targeting markets where Indian rice is not traditionally consumed.
According to the Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF), India could potentially tap into export opportunities in the top 30 global markets currently dominated by competing rice-exporting nations. By positioning Indian rice as a viable alternative, the country’s global export footprint is expected to grow significantly.
Headquartered in the Philippines, IRRI has been a leader in rice research for over six decades. Its South Asia Research Centre in Varanasi, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, focuses on enhancing rice systems across the region. At BIRC 2025, IRRI will contribute through expert-led sessions, policy dialogues, and live demonstrations to showcase sustainable and nutritiously secure rice systems.
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, IRRI, in partnership with APEDA, will organize live culinary demonstrations to highlight the taste, texture, and aroma diversity of Indian rice. International chefs will prepare signature global dishes—ranging from Japanese sushi and Arabic delicacies to Italian entrees and African cuisines—demonstrating how Indian rice varieties can meet global consumer preferences, particularly for non-basmati varieties.
A Culinary Experience Zone curated by IRRI will allow around 1,000 foreign delegates to sample basmati and premium non-basmati varieties, underscoring their potential in international markets.
“IRRI’s partnership will transform BIRC 2025 into a complete global experience—combining science, sustainability, and the sensory power of rice,” said Prem Garg, National President of IREF. “As India leads in rice production and exports, it must also lead in knowledge, innovation, and quality.”
