The Indian rice market continues to dominate global exports, supplying premium Basmati and Non-Basmati varieties across continents. Additionally, Indian rice is popular in the United Kingdom, a country known for its appreciation of authentic flavors and traditional Indian cuisine.
With rising demand in UK households, restaurants, and ethnic supermarkets, export rice from India to United Kingdom presents a lucrative opportunity. However, successful export involves more than just packaging and shipping rice it requires compliance with international standards, precise documentation, and market insights.
Here’s why the UK is a key market for Indian rice exporters:
To succeed in international trade, understanding the step-by-step process to export rice from India to United Kingdom is essential. In addition, this guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth and profitable export journey.
To legally export rice from India to the UK, follow these regulatory steps:
The UK has diverse consumer preferences, so selecting the right rice variety is key:
| Rice Type | Demand in UK | Key Buyers |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice (1121, 1509, 1401, Traditional) |
Very High (Premium Market) | Ethnic supermarkets, restaurants |
| Non-Basmati Rice (IR 64, PR 11/14, Sona Masoori, Swarna) |
Moderate | General supermarkets, wholesalers |
| Organic & Brown Rice | Growing (Health-focused consumers) | Health stores, online retailers |
To succeed in the UK market, consider these channels:
Presentation and compliance are critical:
Choose the best method depending on order size:
| Shipping Mode | Best For | Transit Time | Cost Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | Bulk orders | 18–25 days (Mumbai to Felixstowe/London) | Most cost-effective |
| Air Freight | Small or urgent orders | 3–5 days | Expensive but fast |
Get a clear insight into the rice export cost from India to United Kingdom per kg with this updated price list. Additionally, FOB rates allow exporters to plan competitive and profitable shipments to the UK.
| S.No | Rice Variety | Grain Length | Type | Price (INR/Kg) | UK Price (GBP/Kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100% Broken Parboiled Rice | 4.80 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹38.50 | £0.85-£1.05 |
| 2 | 100% Broken Raw Rice | 4.75 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹37.00 | £0.80-£1.00 |
| 3 | 1121 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 8.25 mm | Basmati | ₹74.50 | £1.60-£2.00 |
| 4 | 1121 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 8.30 mm | Basmati | ₹79.50 | £1.70-£2.10 |
| 5 | 1121 Steam Basmati Rice | 8.35 mm | Basmati | ₹82.00 | £1.75-£2.15 |
| 6 | 1401 Raw Basmati Rice | 7.60 mm | Basmati | ₹99.50 | £2.10-£2.50 |
| 7 | 1401 Steam Basmati Rice | 7.65 mm | Basmati | ₹97.00 | £2.05-£2.45 |
| 8 | 1509 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 8.10 mm | Basmati | ₹64.00 | £1.40-£1.80 |
| 9 | 1509 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 8.15 mm | Basmati | ₹67.50 | £1.45-£1.85 |
| 10 | 1509 Steam Basmati Rice | 8.20 mm | Basmati | ₹69.00 | £1.50-£1.90 |
| 11 | IR 64 Parboiled Rice | 6.30 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹47.00 | £1.00-£1.30 |
| 12 | IR 64 Raw Rice | 6.20 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹45.00 | £0.95-£1.25 |
| 13 | PR 11/14 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 6.70 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹48.00 | £1.05-£1.35 |
| 14 | PR 11/14 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 6.75 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹49.50 | £1.10-£1.40 |
| 15 | PR 11/14 Steam Rice | 6.80 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹48.50 | £1.05-£1.35 |
| 16 | Pusa Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.90 mm | Basmati | ₹90.00 | £1.90-£2.30 |
| 17 | Sarbati Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.50 mm | Basmati | ₹82.00 | £1.75-£2.15 |
| 18 | Sarbati Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 7.55 mm | Basmati | ₹84.00 | £1.80-£2.20 |
| 19 | Sarbati Steam Basmati Rice | 7.60 mm | Basmati | ₹86.00 | £1.85-£2.25 |
| 20 | Sona Masoori Parboiled Rice | 5.50 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹54.50 | £1.15-£1.45 |
| 21 | Sona Masoori Raw Rice | 5.40 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹52.00 | £1.10-£1.40 |
| 22 | Sona Masoori Steam Rice | 5.45 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹53.50 | £1.15-£1.45 |
| 23 | Sugandha Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.80 mm | Basmati | ₹88.00 | £1.85-£2.25 |
| 24 | Sugandha Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 7.85 mm | Basmati | ₹89.50 | £1.90-£2.30 |
| 25 | Sugandha Steam Basmati Rice | 7.90 mm | Basmati | ₹91.50 | £1.95-£2.35 |
| 26 | Swarna Parboiled Rice | 5.30 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹46.00 | £1.00-£1.30 |
| 27 | Swarna Raw Rice | 5.20 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹44.50 | £0.95-£1.25 |
| 28 | Traditional Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.70 mm | Basmati | ₹95.00 | £2.00-£2.40 |
| 29 | Traditional Raw Basmati Rice | 7.50 mm | Basmati | ₹105.00 | £2.25-£2.65 |
*Prices may vary based on demand, port fees, and freight charges
Exporters may face these hurdles:
Boost brand awareness and sales with these strategies:
Exporting rice from India to United Kingdom is a profitable venture—especially when backed by quality products, proper certifications, and a deep understanding of the UK market. Moreover, with increasing global awareness around food quality, consumers are actively seeking, making premium Indian rice more relevant than ever.
At Shah Enterprises, we specialize in providing premium-grade Basmati and Non-Basmati rice that meet international standards. Whether you’re just starting or scaling your exports, we’re your trusted partner for consistent supply, quality assurance, and expert guidance.
In addition, our portfolio includes health-friendly rice varieties that cater to both retail and bulk buyers. So, if you’re looking to grow your brand globally with the best rice for health, Shah Enterprises is the name you can rely on. Let us help you succeed in the UK market and beyond.
Yes, India exports both Basmati and Non-Basmati rice to the UK after meeting quality and regulatory standards.
To import rice to the UK, you need to register as a food business, ensure FSA compliance, and clear customs with the required documents.
You need an IEC code, APEDA registration, FSSAI license, and must follow UK import regulations for food safety and labeling.
Pharmaceuticals, textiles, precious stones, and Basmati rice are among the top exports from India to the UK.
The UK generally imposes 0% to low tariffs on rice imports under specific trade agreements. Check HMRC for current rates.
Register with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and local authority. Importers must also meet hygiene and safety regulations.
Yes, any business selling food in the UK must register with their local council at least 28 days before trading.
