NEW DELHI: Indian rice companies are looking to expand their international footprint, with the United Kingdom and Europe emerging as key growth destinations as exporters seek to diversify markets and strengthen India’s position in global rice trade.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 in New Delhi, industry representatives highlighted plans to enter new markets, widen export networks and build international trade relationships.
Shashi Shrivastava, Business Head of Hari Bhog Agra Food (HBAF) LLP, said the company is targeting European markets after establishing its presence across the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq.
“We cover the Saudi market, Middle East, Iran, Iraq. Now we are expanding to UK, Europe market. This is our goal,” he told ANI.
Shrivastava attributed the company’s domestic and overseas market development to its focus on product quality, competitive pricing and meeting customer requirements.
Ashish Nainani, Director of International Sales at Goenka Group of Industries, expressed optimism about the growth prospects of India’s rice export sector, citing strong overseas demand, including among Indian communities settled abroad.
“The progress will be quite good and as you know that India is the major hub for rice and there are many Indians settled abroad who like to have rice. So there is a huge scope and growth in this sector,” he said.
Goenka Group exports non-basmati rice to several international markets, including Europe, the United States, Gulf countries, Singapore and Australia.
Meanwhile, Virender Kumar, Managing Director of Delhi Pasand Agro (P) Ltd, said the company was exploring opportunities to expand beyond its established domestic business and enter international markets. The company was using the exhibition to connect with overseas buyers, including representatives from Dubai and Jeddah.
The growing interest among Indian rice businesses in overseas expansion reflects efforts to diversify export destinations, tap new demand centres and establish stronger international commercial partnerships.
The Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 is being held in New Delhi from October 23 to 25, bringing together Indian rice exporters, international buyers and other stakeholders in the global rice trade. The event provides a platform for businesses to explore export opportunities, connect with potential partners and strengthen India’s presence in international markets.