India Launched Bulk Rice Shipping to Iraq
The Indian Rice Exporters' Federation has initiated a bulk-shipping project that significantly slashes freight costs for exports to Iraq.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Organic Food
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The Indian Rice Exporters' Federation has introduced a new bulk-shipping initiative to move Basmati rice to Iraq, utilizing three specialized vessels to streamline logistics. This move is expected to drastically lower freight costs per tonne as the federation navigates rising global shipping expenses.
Why it matters
The initiative addresses critical challenges such as container shortages and geopolitical disruptions that have hampered Indian rice exports. By shifting to bulk vessels, the federation aims to preserve India's competitiveness in the vital Middle Eastern market.
The initiative will transport 1,02,210 metric tonnes of Basmati rice at a cost of USD 90 per tonne, down from the previous USD 350. This represents a 74 per cent reduction in freight expenses for these shipments.
The players
Indian Rice Exporters' Federation
This trade organization represents the interests of rice exporters in India and manages international trade initiatives.
Eximwala Solutions
This Singapore-based logistics company specializes in managing complex export shipments and supply chain partnerships.
The details
The Indian Rice Exporters' Federation partnered with Singapore-based Eximwala Solutions to manage the transit of 1,02,210 metric tonnes of rice using bulk-shipping vessels. This strategy bypasses standard container transport, which has been impacted by global supply chain instability and rising fees.
Timeline
FY 2025-26 served as the reference period for export volumes and valuations.
The Indian Rice Exporters' Federation issued the initiative press release on October 12, 2026.
The Bharat International Rice Conference is set for October 23 to 25, 2026, in New Delhi.
Culture Shift
The project follows a pattern set by the long-standing importance of the Middle East, which accounts for 70 per cent of India's total Basmati export volume. This logistical shift adapts traditional export habits to meet modern demands for efficiency in the global agricultural market.
The shift toward bulk shipping aims to stabilize export costs, which may help mitigate price volatility for Basmati rice in the international market. For consumers and retailers relying on Indian imports, this streamlined supply chain could lead to more consistent availability and predictable pricing.
The takeaway
The move to bulk-shipping vessels highlights how specialized logistical partnerships can effectively bypass broader supply chain disruptions. Organizations in the food export sector can implement similar strategies to protect profit margins and maintain competitive pricing in volatile international markets.
Further reading
Learn more about shifts in global agricultural logistics and sustainability in our Organic Food section.
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