AIREA – The Organisation
The All India Rice Exporters Association (AIREA) stands as the unified voice of India’s Basmati rice export industry, built on a legacy of over 35 years of leadership, since its inception in 1989, trust, and global engagement.
India is the world’s largest exporter of rice and the undisputed leader in Basmati rice, a premium aromatic variety renowned for its quality, long grain, and unique fragrance. Basmati rice is not just an agricultural commodity- it is a symbol of India’s heritage and a key contributor to the country’s agri-export economy.
India today accounts for a significant share of global rice trade, exporting to over 150+ countries, with Basmati forming a high-value segment of this basket. The industry supports millions of farmers, millers, and workers across the value chain, making it a critical pillar of rural livelihoods and foreign exchange earnings.
Established with the vision to strengthen and represent this vital sector, AIREA brings together exporters, millers, processors, and allied stakeholders under one platform. The Association has consistently played a key role in policy advocacy, trade facilitation, and addressing industry challenges- ensuring that India remains competitive, compliant, and future-ready in the global marketplace.
AIREA works in close coordination with key Ministries and regulatory authorities, including the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Finance, and Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), along with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). This multi-institutional engagement enables alignment of policy frameworks with industry realities and global trade requirements. Through strategic interventions and continuous dialogue, the Association ensures that the interests of Indian exporters are effectively represented at both national and international levels.
The Association also maintains active institutional linkages and memberships with leading national trade and industry bodies such as the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), and the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA), further strengthening its ability to represent the sector in broader economic and policy dialogues.
Beyond advocacy, AIREA serves as a knowledge and coordination hub- facilitating information exchange, promoting best practices, and supporting members in navigating evolving global trade dynamics, including changing regulations, market disruptions, and emerging opportunities.
With a strong foundation and a forward-looking approach, AIREA remains committed to enhancing India’s leadership in Basmati rice exports, empowering its members, and strengthening the global reputation of Indian rice.
📊 Export Snapshot (FY 2024-25)
| Category | Export Volume | Export Value |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 6.0 Million MT | $4.7 Billion |
| Non-Basmati Rice | 13.9 - 14.0 Million MT | $8.2 Billion |
| Total Rice Exports | 20 Million MT | $12.95 Billion |
• Basmati rice, India’s premium GI product, contributed nearly 30% of total export volume.
• Non-Basmati rice accounted for about 70% of total shipments, supporting food security across Africa, Asia and other emerging markets.