Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF)

Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF)

The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) is the premier national trade body representing India’s rice exporters and associated stakeholders, including millers, processors, traders, logistics firms, packaging manufacturers, and regional associations. Headquartered in New Delhi, IREF plays a pivotal role in shaping the policy landscape, promoting Indian rice globally, and supporting exporters with essential trade intelligence, market access, and regulatory guidance.

India is one of the largest global exporters of rice, supplying Basmati and Non-Basmati varieties to more than 170 countries. IREF’s existence is central to ensuring that the industry remains competitive, well-regulated, and globally recognized.

1. Introduction & Background

IREF was established to unify India’s rice export ecosystem, which historically consisted of scattered groups with varying operational practices. By creating a common platform, the federation aims to provide:

• Collective strength,
• Policy influence,
• Better global visibility,
• Improved operational efficiency for exporters.

IREF’s official motto — “One Nation, One Trade, One Policy” — reflects its commitment to national coherence and industry alignment, ensuring that exporters operate under unified standards and shared objectives.

2. Mission & Vision

Mission

• To empower rice exporters through advocacy, collaboration, market development, and capacity building.
• To strengthen India’s leadership in the global rice market.
• To streamline export operations by reducing barriers and enhancing competitiveness.

Vision

To build a globally competitive, modern, and quality-driven rice export sector that represents India’s agricultural strength and supports farmers, millers, exporters, and the entire value chain.

The federation seeks to position Indian rice as a premium, globally preferred commodity through trade promotion, quality assurance, and scientific handling practices.

3. Core Functions & Activities of IREF

IREF’s activities span the entire spectrum of the rice export ecosystem:

A. Policy Advocacy & Government Liaison

One of IREF’s most important functions is advocating for exporter interests before key government agencies, such as:

• Ministry of Commerce & Industry
• APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
• FSSAI
• Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
• Customs & Port Authorities

It works to ensure:

• Stable & supportive export policies
• Ease of doing business
• Resolution of trade barriers
• Representation during regulatory revisions
• Improved export logistics and compliance

B. International Trade Promotion

IREF organizes major promotional events and trade campaigns in India and abroad.
The most prominent among them is the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) — a global platform where exporters, importers, policymakers, researchers, and industry experts participate to:

• Showcase Indian rice varieties
• Build B2B connections
• Promote export diversification
• Highlight emerging market opportunities

These events significantly enhance India’s global presence in the rice trade.

C. Market Intelligence & Research Support

IREF provides exporters with:

• Global market trends
• Export data and insights
• Demand forecasts
• Competitor analysis
• Price movement reports
• Regulatory updates
• Country-specific trade requirements

Such intelligence is crucial in helping Indian exporters adapt to rapidly changing global trade dynamics.

D. Capacity Building & Training

IREF conducts:

• Workshops
• Seminars
• Training programs for exporters
• Compliance guidance sessions
• Quality control awareness programs

This ensures exporters remain competitive and compliant with international standards.

E. Quality Assurance & Brand Promotion

Indian rice — especially Basmati — is known for its aroma, grain length, and cooking quality.
IREF works to preserve and promote this reputation by:

• Encouraging best practices in milling, processing, and packaging
• Promoting adherence to international food-safety norms
• Supporting certifications and quality audits
• Developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for quality consistency

These initiatives help position Indian rice as a trusted, premium global product.

4. Significance of IREF to India’s Rice Export Sector

4.1 Strengthening India’s Global Leadership: India consistently ranks as one of the top exporters of rice in the world, and IREF serves as the backbone of this achievement by coordinating the entire industry chain.

4.2 Facilitating Market Expansion: IREF helps exporters explore:

• New markets
• Untapped regions
• Trade fairs
• Business collaborations

4.3 Unified Policy Voice: By representing thousands of stakeholders under one body, IREF ensures the rice sector speaks with a single, strong voice in policy discussions.

4.4 Protecting Export Interests: During periods of:

• Policy changes
• Global trade disruptions
• Supply chain bottlenecks

IREF coordinates with government authorities to safeguard exporter interests and maintain trade continuity.

5. Major Initiatives

1. Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC): A flagship global rice conference that strengthens India’s presence in the international trade landscape.

2. Global Buyer–Seller Meets: Organized frequently to connect Indian exporters with international importers.

3. Industry Reports & Export Forecast Studies: Prepared periodically for members.

4. Promotion of Modern Milling & Processing Technologies: Encourages the adoption of advanced rice-processing techniques to elevate quality.

6. Membership Strength & Structure

IREF represents:

• Rice exporters
• Rice millers
• Manufacturers of packaging materials
• Logistics and freight-forwarding companies
• Custom House Agents
• State-level rice associations
• Laboratory & certification bodies
• Allied agricultural service providers

With a wide membership base, IREF influences both policy and market development across India.

7. Official Contact Information

Registered Office:

73 LGF, World Trade Centre
Barakhamba Avenue,
Connaught Place,
New Delhi – 110001, India

Corporate Office:

B-5, 1st Floor, Bhagwan Das Nagar
New Delhi – 110026, India

Toll-Free Phone:

1800-419-0511

Mobile:

+91 73030 94421

Email: [email protected]

Official Website: www.iref.net

Conclusion

The Indian Rice Exporters Federation (IREF) serves as the backbone of India’s rice export industry. Through policy advocacy, global trade promotion, market intelligence, training, and quality assurance, it helps maintain India’s dominance in the global rice market. Its initiatives uplift not only exporters and processors but also millions of farmers whose livelihood depends on rice production.

IREF’s comprehensive support system ensures that Indian rice continues to meet global standards, expand into new markets, and retain its position as a world-leading agricultural export.

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