Watch: Indian rice exporters not worried about US’s high tariff threats

Published on March 28, 2026

Indian rice exporters are maintaining a confident stance despite the United States threatening to impose higher tariffs on their products. The exporters assert that this potential move is unlikely to significantly impact their business, citing that shipments to the US account for only a small percentage of India’s total rice exports.

According to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), Indian rice primarily caters to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa, which comprise the bulk of its exports. The organization believes that the diverse markets mitigated the risks posed increases from the US.

However, rice growers in Haryana have expressed concerns about the proposed tariffs. They worry that increased international competition stemming from higher US tariffs could weaken their position in the global market. Many farmers in the region are already grappling with various challenges, including fluctuating prices and changing climate conditions. The growers fear that the additional strain from US tariffs would make it even harder for them to remain competitive.

Exporters, on the other hand, view the US market as a niche segment rather than a primary source of revenue. They are focused on expanding their reach to other international markets, where demand for Indian rice continues to grow. This perspective has helped them remain optimistic about the future, irrespective of the tariff threats from the US.

As the situation unfolds, Indian rice exporters and growers alike are closely monitoring developments related to the US tariffs, hoping for a resolution that will minimize any adverse effects on their operations. While exporters project confidence, the concerns raised the need for broader support mechanisms in the industry to address the myriad challenges they face in an increasingly competitive global agricultural market.

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