The Department of Commerce reaffirmed that it is extending only non-financial support to the upcoming Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2025, scheduled for October 30–31 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The event, organized by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), will see participation from key stakeholders across the rice export ecosystem.
According to the Ministry, the collaboration aims to foster dialogue and coordination between government departments, exporters, and agricultural bodies to strengthen India’s rice export strategy. India, currently the world’s largest producer of rice, recorded exports worth approximately USD 12.95 billion in 2024–25.
Event Organization and Financial Responsibility
The government clarified that all financial responsibilities for the conference including logistics, venue bookings, buyer-hosting, and promotional materials are being handled by IREF and its co-partners using private funds or sponsorships. No financial assistance is being provided by the Department of Commerce or any other government entity.
Other major partners include The Rice Exporters Association, Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG), and The Rice Exporters Association, Kakinada. These organizations, representing non-Basmati rice exporters, are expected to play a key role in buyer-seller interactions and technical sessions during the two-day event.
APEDA’s Coordinating Role
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is assisting in connecting various ministries and departments for the event. This support is designed to ensure a holistic, well-coordinated approach to boosting agricultural exports especially rice as part of India’s broader export diversification goals under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
APEDA’s participation aligns with its mandate to promote agricultural and processed food exports, helping India maintain its leadership in global agri-trade markets.
Clarification on Allegations
Addressing recent media allegations concerning the national president and internal affairs of the IREF, the Department of Commerce stated that it does not comment on private matters related to trade associations or individuals. The ministry reiterated that IREF functions as an independent private body, and its internal management remains outside the purview of government oversight.
India’s Rice Export Leadership
India continues to lead the global rice market with strong export performance driven by quality production, competitive pricing, and robust supply chains. With growing international demand, the BIRC 2025 is expected to provide an effective platform for policy dialogue, networking, and trade facilitation in the sector.
The event underscores India’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders to ensure sustained growth in agricultural exports while maintaining transparency and accountability in trade promotion activities.