The Centre banned the export of non-basmati white rice, constituting 25% of total rice exports, with immediate effect. This decision by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade aims to ensure enough availability in the domestic market and control the rising rice prices. Despite a 20% export duty imposed earlier, exports increased significantly.
The Union Food Ministry clarified that the ban applies only to non-basmati white rice, while the export policy for other rice varieties remains unchanged. This move is intended to secure remunerative prices for farmers in the international market while addressing domestic market concerns.