Rising Rejections of Indian Non-Basmati Rice in EU Raise Concerns

Rejections of Indian non-basmati rice shipments to the European Union (excluding the UK) have risen sharply due to pesticide residues exceeding permitted limits. Between 2020 and 2024, rejected shipments increased from 3 to 37 cases, despite mandatory inspection certificates.

In contrast, Pakistan significantly improved its quality standards, resulting in fewer EU rejections—from 54 cases in 2020 down to just 2 in 2024.

India's Non-Basmati Rice Exports to the EU

Pakistan Gains Ground in Non-Basmati Rice Market

While India's exports remain moderate, Pakistan has increased its rice exports significantly, reaching 5,25 million tonnes in 2023-24, compared to 3,12 million tonnes in 2022-23. Although the EU is a small market for Pakistan, key destinations for its rice include Indonesia, Malaysia, Afghanistan, Kenya, Senegal, and the Philippines.

Within Europe, Pakistan’s main buyers (2023-24):

Concerns Over Pesticide Residue Compliance

Trade analysts note Pakistan has effectively maintained its market position by strictly adhering to Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) for pesticides. Conversely, India's Directorate-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has mandated inspection certificates since 2018, but industry sources suggest enforcement might be lacking, causing increased rejections.

Aflatoxin Standards Across Different Regions

Aflatoxin Detection in Indian Rice Exports

The Indian government acknowledged in Parliament that aflatoxin was detected in some rice consignments exported to the EU.

Strengthening Quality Control Essential

Foreign trade analyst S. Chandrasekaran emphasizes that India must strictly enforce quality checks to avoid further rejections. Failure to comply with EU regulations could risk losing market access. State agriculture departments and universities in India are currently running training programs to help farmers adopt better agricultural practices and reduce pesticide use.

With growing competition from Pakistan, India must urgently address quality issues and improve inspection processes to sustain its non-basmati rice exports to the EU.