India Approves Export of Non-Basmati White Rice to Malawi and Zimbabwe to Address Food Security Needs

The Indian government has allowed the export of 1,000 tonnes of non-basmati white rice to Malawi and Zimbabwe through the National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) to address global food security concerns. This decision comes despite the ongoing ban on non-basmati white rice exports that was implemented on July 20, 2023, to ensure adequate domestic supply.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notification stating that the export is allowed on the basis of specific requests from the governments of Malawi and Zimbabwe. Both nations face significant food security challenges and the Indian government's gesture aims to provide much-needed relief.

Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, and Zimbabwe, located in southern Africa, are among the nations grappling with food shortages. The export of non-basmati rice to these countries is a part of India's broader humanitarian initiative to support countries in need.

Earlier, the Indian government permitted the export of 14,000 metric tonnes (MT) of non-basmati white rice to Mauritius through NCEL. In addition to Mauritius, India has extended similar support to Nepal, Cameroon, Cote D'Ivoire, Guinea, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Seychelles, demonstrating a commitment to aiding countries facing food crises.

NCEL, a multi-state cooperative society, plays a pivotal role in facilitating these exports. It is promoted by leading cooperative organizations in India, including the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), known as AMUL, the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Ltd (IFFCO), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Ltd (KRIBHCO), and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED). These organizations collectively support NCEL in its mission to boost agricultural exports and support global food security.

This initiative underscores India's position as a responsible global player, extending its agricultural resources to support international partners in times of need.