Due to the recognized “special relationship” shared with Singapore, India has opted to authorize the export of rice in order to fulfill the Southeast nation’s food security needs, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
“India and Singapore enjoy a very close strategic partnership, characterized by shared interests, close economic ties and strong people-to-people connect. In view of this special relationship, India has decided to allow the export of rice to meet the food security requirements of Singapore,” said MEA official spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi on Tuesday in response to media queries on rice export to Singapore.
“Formal orders in this regard will be issued shortly,” Mr Bagchi added.
On August 27, India implemented further protective measures concerning the export of basmati rice, aimed at preventing the shipment of non-basmati white rice, which is currently restricted for export.
Read More: India’s basmati rice export policy tightens with $1,200/Tonne threshold
Last Sunday witnessed the government’s statement confirming the receipt of credible field reports regarding the misclassification and illegal export of non-basmati white rice.
“It has been reported that non-basmati white rice is being exported under the HS codes of parboiled rice and basmati rice,” the government said in a statement.
Significantly, the export of non-basmati white rice was banned starting from July 20, aiming to stabilize domestic prices and uphold domestic food security. The government observed that despite limitations imposed on specific rice types, rice exports have remained elevated throughout the current year.
On July 20, the central government revised the rice export regulations by categorizing non-basmati white rice under the “prohibited” classification.
Read More: India prohibits non-basmati white rice exports amidst supply concerns
The export policy relating to non-basmati white rice (semi-milled or wholly milled rice, whether or not polished or glazed) has been revised from “free” to “prohibited” and it has come into force immediately, a Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) notification said.
