India • Jun 23, 2025

India's Basmati rice shipments to Iran stalled amid conflict

Nearly 1 lakh tons of Indian basmati rice are stuck at Kandla and Mundra ports in Gujarat because the Middle East conflict has made shipping and insurance to Iran nearly impossible.
With no safe way to send the rice, exporters are left waiting—and it could shake up prices back home.

TL;DR

Iran takes 1-fifth of Indian basmati exports

Iran is a huge buyer, taking about one-fifth of all Indian basmati exports.
With shipments halted and payments already slow due to sanctions, exporters are feeling the pinch.
Domestic prices have dropped by ₹4-5 per kg, adding more stress for sellers.
Industry groups are now turning to government officials for help as they try to navigate this tricky situation.