Global Interest Grows as 3,317 Buyers Register for BIRC 2026 in India’s Rice Bowl
India’s rice exporters are gearing up for a significant international event this October, with 3,317 buyers from 138 countries registered for the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026. Scheduled from October 23 to 25 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, the conference aims to expand the global reach of Indian rice. Registration data indicates strong interest from diverse markets, including Africa, the Gulf, Southeast Asia, and neighboring countries.
Bangladesh leads in registrations with 336 buyers, followed by Benin with 179 and Nigeria with 177. The UAE has 145 registrations, while Nepal and the Philippines each have 137. Other notable participants include Ethiopia with 127 buyers and Saudi Arabia with 125. Buyers from various countries such as Senegal, Iraq, Somalia, and Australia have also signed up, showcasing the global interest in Indian rice.
Africa accounts for a significant chunk of buyer interest
Africa has emerged as a key market for Indian rice exporters, with strong participation from Benin, Nigeria, and Ethiopia. Buyers from South Africa, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, Ghana, Angola, and Kenya have also registered for the conference. The Gulf region remains a vital trading hub, with significant registrations from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Southeast Asia is also represented, with buyers from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
The Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) notes that the geographical diversity of participants could help exporters reach new customers and reduce reliance on specific markets. BIRC 2026 follows a market-diversification initiative from the previous edition, which aimed to unlock potential rice-import markets estimated at Rs 1.8 lakh crore.
Matchmaking platform to focus on actual business deals
BIRC 2026 will introduce an app-enabled B2B matchmaking platform designed to facilitate meaningful business interactions. This platform will allow buyers, exporters, millers, and service providers to identify potential partners and schedule meetings based on rice varieties, volumes, and market requirements. The goal is to transition from general networking to targeted business engagement.
The B2B meetings will be available throughout the conference, enabling participants to arrange discussions in advance. This approach aims to enhance the focus and productivity of interactions among stakeholders.
Price outlook for 2027 to be under the spotlight
A key topic at the conference will be the global rice market’s prospects for 2027. One session will address the theme, “Global Demand & Supply Outlook 2027: Price Crash or New Bull Run?” This session will include crop surveys, production estimates, and expert market insights to evaluate potential price and trade scenarios for the coming years.
In addition to this session, nine other business-focused knowledge sessions will cover various topics, including crop survey and price forecasting, new market opportunities, and sustainability. These sessions are designed to provide practical training aimed at market expansion and risk reduction.
Vision 2047, innovations and experience zones on agenda
The conference will also unveil the Rice Sector Vision 2047 and showcase the Top Five Innovations. Attendees can explore nine immersive Experience Zones that highlight different aspects of the rice ecosystem, from its origins to future innovations.
Participants will include international buyers, Indian exporters, millers, policymakers, and technology providers. The final day of BIRC 2026 will feature a public-facing Rice Festival on October 25, further promoting engagement with the rice industry.
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