Import Non Basmati Rice from India | International Trade Support

Introduction

Global demand for non-basmati rice continues to grow as governments, wholesalers, food processors, and retail distributors seek affordable, high-volume staple grains. For many destinations, non-basmati rice is the preferred choice because it balances price stability, consistent supply, and versatility across multiple food applications.

International buyers who import non basmati rice from India typically focus on three priorities:

• Meeting large-volume demand

• Controlling landed costs

• Ensuring quality and regulatory requirements are met at destination ports
  

Despite its widespread availability, non-basmati rice import carries risks due to quality variation, compliance gaps, and logistics challenges. A structured approach is essential.

Understanding Non-Basmati Rice for Import

In international trade, non-basmati rice refers to all rice varieties that do not fall under the basmati category. These varieties are typically shorter or medium grain, offer higher yields, and come with more competitive pricing.

Buyers import non basmati rice for several common use cases:

• Mass consumption programs and public distribution systems

• Food processing and industrial applications

• Wholesale distribution for urban and rural retail markets

• Institutional procurement for schools, military operations, and relief programs
  

When planning to import non basmati rice, buyers evaluate variety suitability for the target market, broken grain percentage and grain length consistency, moisture levels appropriate for long-distance shipping, compliance with destination regulations, and the reliability and track record of non-basmati rice suppliers.

Major Non-Basmati Rice Varieties for Import

IR64 Rice Import Specification

IR64 is one of the most widely traded varieties for buyers who import non basmati rice.

Specifications:

• Grain length: approximately 5.8–6.0 mm

• Broken grains: ≤5% for premium grade, 5–10% for standard grade

• Moisture: ≤14% maximum (≤12–13% preferred for long transit)

Typical markets include West Africa, Southeast Asia, and large-scale food programs. IR64 is commonly selected when buyers focus on cost-sensitive, high-volume non basmati rice import.

Sona Masoori Rice Quality Specifications

Sona Masoori is positioned as a premium non-basmati rice option.

Specifications:

• Grain length: approximately 5.0–5.2 mm

• Broken grains: typically ≤5%

• Moisture: generally capped at 13%

This variety is preferred in markets where lighter texture and superior cooking quality are important.

A common buyer question remains: IR64 vs Sona Masoori rice which is better for import?

The answer depends on end-market positioning. IR64 suits cost-sensitive markets, while Sona Masoori targets premium retail segments.

Parboiled Non-Basmati Rice Bulk Supply

Parboiled non basmati rice undergoes a steaming process before milling, offering several advantages:

• Enhanced resistance to breakage

• Longer shelf life under humid conditions

• Moisture tolerance closer to upper acceptable limits

Parboiled non basmati rice bulk shipments are common in West Africa and the Middle East.

Non-Basmati Rice Quality Specifications Importers Must Verify

Quality disputes are one of the most frequent causes of claims and rejections in bulk rice trade.

Core specifications when you import non basmati rice:

• Broken grains: ≤5% (premium), 5–10% (standard)

• Grain length: variety-specific tolerances

• Moisture: ≤14% maximum

• Foreign matter: zero tolerance
  

How to verify rice moisture content before shipment

Buyers rely on pre-shipment inspection reports, random sampling, and calibrated moisture meters. Maintaining lower moisture is critical to prevent mold.

Non-Basmati Rice HS Code and Trade Classification

Correct classification is critical for customs clearance.

HS code for non basmati rice imports:

• 1006.30.90: non-basmati white rice

• 1006.30.10: parboiled non-basmati rice

• 1006.40.00: 100% broken rice

Incorrect HS coding can increase landed cost and delay clearance during non basmati rice import.

Regulations and Documents Required to Import Non-Basmati Rice

Documents required to import non basmati rice include:

• Phytosanitary certificate

• Certificate of origin

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Bill of lading

Compliance requirements may include destination-specific pesticide residue limits, heavy metal testing, fumigation certification, and accurate food-grade labeling. Regulatory variation is one of the biggest risks in non basmati rice import from India.

Pricing Structure: Understanding Non-Basmati Rice Price per Ton

The non basmati rice price per ton is influenced by variety and grade, broken grain percentage, packaging format, and seasonality and policy changes.

Non-basmati rice price FOB vs CIF comparison

FOB (Free on Board): buyer controls freight CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): freight included

Buyers must calculate total landed cost—not just base price—when they import non basmati rice.

Logistics and Shipping for Wholesale Non-Basmati Rice

Containerized shipments are most common, with typical packaging in 25 kg bags or 50 kg bags.

How to Prevent Rice Mold During International Shipment

Mold risk increases with high moisture and poor ventilation.

Key controls:

• Moisture ideally ≤13%

• Dry containers

• Clean packaging

• Inspection before sealing
  

Buyer Risks in Bulk Non-Basmati Rice Procurement

Common risks when buyers import non basmati rice include batch-to-batch quality variation, regulatory non-compliance, payment disputes, logistics delays, and documentation errors.

Risk mitigation strategies:

• Detailed contract clauses

• Clear Incoterms

• Independent inspections

• Structured documentation control

Some importers rely on neutral trade-support platforms such as Agriprime, which provides structured assistance around supplier documentation, inspection coordination, and trade process visibility without acting as a seller.

Importing Non-Basmati Rice from India: What Buyers Should Know

India remains the dominant source for non basmati rice import from India due to production scale, variety availability, and established export logistics.

Buyers must verify export license, quality specifications, correct HS code, and compliance alignment.

Planning to Import Non Basmati Rice?

If you are planning to import non basmati rice, prepare the following information:

• Destination country

• Variety required

• Broken percentage

• Monthly volume

• Preferred Incoterms

A structured procurement approach reduces risk and improves cost control in international non basmati rice import transactions.