India is preparing to highlight its growing dominance in the global rice market at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, a major trade event scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on October 30–31. The conference comes as India strengthens its position as the world’s largest rice producer and leading exporter, with shipments valued at around USD12.95 billion during the 2024–25 fiscal year.
The event is being spearheaded by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), a private trade organization representing rice exporters and key industry stakeholders. Prominent regional associations, including The Rice Exporters Association, Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG) and The Rice Exporters Association (TREA), Kakinada, are co-partners in organizing the event.
Together, these bodies are managing all aspects of the conference, from venue arrangements to hosting international buyers, through their own funds and private sponsorships, without any financial assistance from the government.
The Government of India is extending non-financial support through the Department of Commerce and other concerned ministries, reaffirming its commitment to participatory decision-making and the promotion of agricultural trade.
Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is also facilitating the conference by coordinating with various government departments to ensure a holistic approach to promoting and expanding India’s rice exports.
BIRC 2025 will feature exhibitions, buyer-seller meetings, and technical sessions aimed at strengthening India’s presence in international rice markets and creating new global trade partnerships.
However, organizers have clarified that the Department of Commerce has no role in appointing members or leadership of the IREF. Addressing recent media reports about the IREF and its national president, the Department stated that these are internal matters of a private trade body and do not fall within the government’s purview.
Bharat International Rice Conference 2025 is expected to serve as a key platform for India’s rice industry to engage with global buyers, showcase product diversity, and explore emerging opportunities in the international trade landscape.
