Increase in Agri and Processed Foods Exports by 7% Reaches $5.9 Billion in Q1
India, a vibrant hub of agricultural production, has been making significant strides in the global market. In the realm of rice exports, India holds a leading global market share of 30.3%, making it the largest rice exporter worldwide with rice exports valued at $11.83 billion for 2024-25[1]. This impressive figure rose to $12.47 billion in FY25, marking a record high[2].
The first quarter of 2025-26 saw rice exports, including basmati and non-basmati varieties, surge by over 3.5% to $2.9 billion[1][2]. Notably, India's parboiled rice exports, particularly to Sub-Saharan Africa and Bangladesh, have witnessed a significant surge following declines in export prices and the removal of trade restrictions[4].
In the arena of buffalo meat, India also emerges as a significant global player. The rise in agricultural and processed foods exports in early 2025 was notably supported by sharp increases in both rice and buffalo meat shipments[2]. Although exact percentages of India’s share in the global buffalo meat market were not specified in the search results, the growing export volumes indicate a substantial and expanding presence.
The government's easing of restrictions on rice exports in September 2024, on prospects of bumper output and significantly higher stocks, has contributed to this growth[1]. The Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) coordinates buffalo meat exports through approved integrated meat plants[3].
India's dominance in the global rice trade has been restored due to a spike in shipments, especially to Africa and Southeast Asian countries. Simultaneously, the shipment of fruits and vegetables increased by 13% to $0.95 billion in the first quarter of FY26, while the exports of products under APEDA basket rose to $25.14 billion during the 2024-25, an increase of over 12% compared to FY24[5].
In summary, India dominates the global rice export market with over 30% share and is a major player in buffalo meat exports with rapidly increasing volumes in 2025[1][2]. The growth rate of world trade in Jan-March was 5.3%, ahead of the anticipated US tariffs, further boosting India's agricultural exports[6].
[1] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/india-s-rice-exports-touch-record-high-in-fy25/article66178911.ece [2] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/india-s-agri-exports-rise-in-q1-of-2025-26/article66441913.ece [3] https://www.apeda.gov.in/ [4] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/indias-parboiled-rice-exports-rise-on-decline-in-prices/article66178909.ece [5] https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-s-agri-exports-jump-7-to-5-96-bn-in-q1-fy26-122000810107_1.html [6] https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/world-trade-growth-accelerates-in-january-march-quarter/article66452629.ece
- The surging inflation in finance, driven by India's increased rice exports, is expected to have a significant impact on the global market and economy.
- Amidst the rise of digital finance and defi industry, India's dominance in the global rice trade is a testament to the country's robust agricultural industry and business acumen.
- As India expands its market share in rice exports, the lifestyle and food-and-drink sector within the country may witness changes, with potential increases in affordable, quality food.
- The decline in trade restrictions and export prices for parboiled rice has led to a boom in India's business relationships with Sub-Saharan Africa and Bangladesh, penetrating deeper into the global market.
- The government's aggressive push in agriculture and processed foods exports has attracted attention from the finance industry, as India cements its position as a dominant player in global trade.
