India is one of the world’s largest rice exporters, supplying both Basmati and Non-Basmati rice to multiple international markets. Despite geopolitical complexities, Iran remains an important destination for Indian rice exports, driven by strong consumer demand, cultural food habits, and long-standing trade relations between the two countries.
Furthermore, this guide explains how to export rice from India to Iran, covering rice varieties, compliance requirements, documentation, logistics, payment methods, challenges, and best practices for importers in 2026.
Iran has a high per-capita rice consumption and limited domestic production capacity. As a result, the country relies heavily on imports to meet demand, especially for aromatic and long-grain rice varieties.
Key reasons Iran imports rice from India:
Further, these factors make Iran a strategic market for businesses planning to export rice from India, especially premium varieties.
Understanding Iranian buyer preferences is essential before entering the market.
| Category | Rice Varieties | Market Use |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1121 Steam, 1121 Sella, 1509 Basmati | Retail, household consumption |
| Parboiled Rice | 1121 Sella, IR64 Parboiled | Bulk buyers, food service |
| Non-Basmati Rice | IR64, PR11/PR14 | Institutional and price-sensitive segments |
Basmati rice remains the most preferred due to its aroma, elongation, and cooking quality, similar to demand patterns seen in export rice from India to Iraq and other West Asian markets.
Exporters must comply with both Indian export regulations and Iranian import norms.
In addition, exporters should verify current import permissions due to sanctions and regulatory sensitivities before shipment.
Accurate documentation is critical for customs clearance and payment security.
Well-prepared documents reduce delays and build trust with Iranian importers.
In addition, following a structured process helps manage risks on sensitive trade routes.
Rice exports to Iran primarily move via sea freight, with some land-sea combinations through third countries.
| Indian Port | Iranian Port | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mundra | Bandar Abbas | 15–20 days |
| Kandla | Bandar Abbas | 15–22 days |
| Nhava Sheva | Bandar Abbas | 17–22 days |
Logistics best practices:
Efficient logistics reduce spoilage and compliance risks.
The cost to export rice from India to Iran depends on:
Further, exporters should compare prices with suppliers from the top rice exporter in India and provide consistent quality rather than aggressive under-pricing.
Iranian buyers emphasize quality and shelf stability.
Maintaining quality ensures repeat orders and long-term partnerships.
Due to banking restrictions, payment structures require extra caution.
Common payment methods:
Risk management tips:
Common challenges include:
How exporters can manage risks:
Prepared exporters can still operate successfully in this market.
Shah Enterprises supports exporters and importers with reliable sourcing and compliance expertise.
Key strengths:
For buyers and traders based in the UAE or Gulf region, sourcing is also supported through Hind Gate General Trading LLC (Dubai), assisting:
Furthermore, this dual presence facilitates smoother communication and execution.
Iran continues to be a significant market for Indian rice exporters, particularly for premium Basmati varieties. Additionally, exporters can build sustainable trade relationships with the right compliance, quality control, and risk management practices.
If you are planning to export rice from India to Iran, working with an experienced exporter like Shah Enterprises ensures reliable supply, regulatory support, and trusted international trade execution.
Shah Enterprises supplies high-quality Basmati and Non-Basmati rice to Iran with consistent quality, timely shipments, and complete export documentation support.
Yes, India exports Basmati and selected Non-Basmati rice varieties to Iran, subject to regulations.
Basmati rice, especially 1121 and 1509 varieties, is widely preferred.
Exporters must comply with Indian export laws and verify Iranian import approvals.
It requires careful compliance and payment planning but remains commercially viable.
