Exports of Processed Food Products Jump by 15% in April
Surge in India’s Processed Food Exports
India’s exports of processed food experienced a remarkable growth of 15% year-on-year, reaching $2.13 billion in April 2025, fueled by robust shipments of rice, meat, and fruits. With the easing of restrictions on rice exports and anticipated record harvests, the prospects for trade remain promising. The APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) basket exports achieved $25.14 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25, marking an increase of 12%.
Government Eases Rice Export Restrictions
The government began to relax restrictions on rice exports in September 2024, driven by expectations of a bountiful harvest and significantly higher stock levels, nearly one year after initial limitations were imposed. As of now, all export restrictions, including minimum export pricing on rice shipments, have been lifted.
Driving Factors Behind Rising Exports
The agricultural export sector saw a brisk start in the current fiscal year, attributed mainly to a notable increase in rice, meat, and vegetable exports last month. In April 2025, rice exports—including both basmati and non-basmati varieties—grew by over 13%, totaling $1.08 billion compared to the previous year. For FY25, rice exports reached an all-time high of $12.47 billion, reflecting over a 20% increase from 2023-24.
Future Projections for Rice Exports
Amit Goel, managing director of KNAM Foods, an exporter of basmati rice, shared insights with FE, projecting rice exports to rise between 10% and 15% this fiscal year due to potential spikes in global demand driven by geopolitical factors. Following the removal of restrictions, trade sources indicate that India has regained its status as a leading player in global rice trade, particularly with an upswing in shipments to Africa and Southeast Asian nations. India has maintained its position as the world’s largest rice exporter for the past decade.
Impact of Monsoon on Production
With favorable forecasts suggesting above-normal monsoon rains, rice production and exports are expected to increase in the current fiscal year. According to data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics, shipments of fresh fruits and vegetables rose by over 30% in April 2025 to $0.38 billion, with cereal preparations increasing more than 7% to $0.26 billion. Buffalo meat, dairy, and poultry product exports also saw an uptick of around 16% year-on-year to $0.37 billion compared to April 2024. Officials noted a growing global demand for Indian buffalo meat, attributed to its high quality and nutritional value.
Strong Growth in APEDA Basket Exports
In the fiscal year 2024-25, exports of products under the APEDA basket increased to $25.14 billion, a rise of over 12% year-on-year. The APEDA basket accounts for approximately 51% of total agricultural produce shipments, while remaining agriculatural exports include marine products, tobacco, coffee, and tea.
