India is one of the largest rice exporters globally, with its premium Basmati rice and Non-Basmati rice in high demand across international markets, including China. The unique qualities of Indian rice, such as its long grains and aromatic fragrance, have made it a popular choice for Chinese consumers. However, successfully exporting rice from India to China involves a thorough understanding of various export regulations, documentation, logistical requirements, and market trends.
This guide offers a step-by-step process for exporting rice from India to China, covering all necessary requirements like registration, packaging, logistics, and marketing strategies, ensuring your rice export business is smooth and profitable.
China, with its large population and significant rice consumption, presents an excellent market for Indian rice. Here are several reasons why exporting rice to China can be a profitable business opportunity:
China imports millions of tonnes annually, with Indian rice being a popular choice.
Sought after in China's premium market for its superior aroma and grain quality.
India's proximity ensures competitive advantage in rice exports to China.
Indian rice offers great value at more affordable prices than competitors.
Here you’ll discover the complete step-by-step procedure for exporting rice from India to China, including licenses, logistics, packaging, and documentation to facilitate a successful export journey.
Here you’ll discover the complete step-by-step procedure for exporting rice from India to China, including licenses, logistics, packaging, and documentation to facilitate a successful export journey.
Selecting the right type of rice is essential for meeting Chinese market demand. Some popular rice varieties for export to China include:
To find buyers for your rice export, utilize these methods:
Proper packaging ensures rice quality and compliance with China’s import regulations:
Shipping rice to China requires selecting the best method based on cost and urgency:
| Shipping Method | Best For | Route | Transit Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | Bulk Orders |
Mumbai
→
Shanghai Port
|
10-12 Days | Lower |
| Air Freight | Urgent Shipments | Direct Flights | 3-5 Days | Higher |
Ensure all necessary documents are in place to avoid customs delays:
The cost of exporting rice from India to China varies depending on the rice variety and its quality. The prices in this table reflect the cost per kilogram for different types of rice, from non-Basmati to premium Basmati varieties, in both Indian Rupees (INR) and Chinese Yuan (CNY).
| S.No | Rice Variety | Grain Length | Type | Price (INR/Kg) | Price (CNY/Kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 100% Broken Parboiled Rice | 4.80 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹38.50 | ¥3.26 |
| 2 | 100% Broken Raw Rice | 4.75 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹37.00 | ¥3.19 |
| 3 | 1121 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 8.25 mm | Basmati | ₹74.50 | ¥6.39 |
| 4 | 1121 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 8.30 mm | Basmati | ₹79.50 | ¥6.82 |
| 5 | 1121 Steam Basmati Rice | 8.35 mm | Basmati | ₹82.00 | ¥7.02 |
| 6 | 1401 Raw Basmati Rice | 7.60 mm | Basmati | ₹99.50 | ¥8.52 |
| 7 | 1401 Steam Basmati Rice | 7.65 mm | Basmati | ₹97.00 | ¥8.30 |
| 8 | 1509 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 8.10 mm | Basmati | ₹64.00 | ¥5.46 |
| 9 | 1509 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 8.15 mm | Basmati | ₹67.50 | ¥5.73 |
| 10 | 1509 Steam Basmati Rice | 8.20 mm | Basmati | ₹69.00 | ¥5.88 |
| 11 | IR 64 Parboiled Rice | 6.30 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹47.00 | ¥4.04 |
| 12 | IR 64 Raw Rice | 6.20 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹45.00 | ¥3.83 |
| 13 | PR 11/14 Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 6.70 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹48.00 | ¥4.13 |
| 14 | PR 11/14 Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 6.75 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹49.50 | ¥4.26 |
| 15 | PR 11/14 Steam Rice | 6.80 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹48.50 | ¥4.13 |
| 16 | Pusa Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.90 mm | Basmati | ₹90.00 | ¥7.65 |
| 17 | Sarbati Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.50 mm | Basmati | ₹82.00 | ¥7.02 |
| 18 | Sarbati Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 7.55 mm | Basmati | ₹84.00 | ¥7.17 |
| 19 | Sarbati Steam Basmati Rice | 7.60 mm | Basmati | ₹86.00 | ¥7.38 |
| 20 | Sona Masoori Parboiled Rice | 5.50 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹54.50 | ¥4.69 |
| 21 | Sona Masoori Raw Rice | 5.40 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹52.00 | ¥4.46 |
| 22 | Sona Masoori Steam Rice | 5.45 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹53.50 | ¥4.54 |
| 23 | Sugandha Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.80 mm | Basmati | ₹88.00 | ¥7.51 |
| 24 | Sugandha Golden Sella Basmati Rice | 7.85 mm | Basmati | ₹89.50 | ¥7.65 |
| 25 | Sugandha Steam Basmati Rice | 7.90 mm | Basmati | ₹91.50 | ¥7.81 |
| 26 | Swarna Parboiled Rice | 5.30 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹46.00 | ¥3.92 |
| 27 | Swarna Raw Rice | 5.20 mm | Non-Basmati | ₹44.50 | ¥3.83 |
| 28 | Traditional Creamy Sella Basmati Rice | 7.70 mm | Basmati | ₹95.00 | ¥8.09 |
| 29 | Traditional Raw Basmati Rice | 7.50 mm | Basmati | ₹105.00 | ¥9.00 |
*Prices fluctuate according to supply and demand, freight rates, and government policies.
In addition to great opportunities, some challenges include:
To boost your rice sales in China, consider the following strategies:
Exporting rice from India to China offers a significant business opportunity, with both Basmati rice and Non-Basmati rice in high demand. By understanding the essential export steps, legal requirements, and market dynamics, you can navigate the process with ease and build a successful export business.
At Shah Enterprises, we offer premium rice varieties, ensuring your products meet international standards. Whether you’re looking to export Basmati rice or Non-Basmati rice to China, our expert services and quality products ensure your success in the global rice trade.
For more details on rice export documentation for China or to connect with the best Indian rice exporters, don’t hesitate to reach out. Start your rice export journey to China today with the right knowledge and support.
To export rice to China, Indian exporters must register with the DGFT, obtain FSSAI and APEDA certifications, get listed with GACC (China), and follow phytosanitary norms for smooth shipment.
China imports non-basmati and select basmati rice varieties from India, largely because of the competitive pricing and consistent quality offered by Indian exporters.
Yes, India is allowed to export rice and other agricultural products to China, subject to bilateral trade agreements and compliance with Chinese import regulations.
India exports thousands of metric tonnes of rice annually to China, with non-basmati rice being the primary segment. The numbers vary year to year based on demand.
Yes, exporters need an IEC (Import Export Code), APEDA registration, and GACC approval to legally export rice from India to China.
Yes, rice export is profitable due to strong global demand, especially from countries like China. Profitability depends on variety, quality, logistics, and international pricing.
