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India to lift export ban on some rice varieties

By IANS

New Delhi : The government is likely to lift the ban on rice exports only for some superior varieties, Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath said Wednesday.

“We are planning to remove the export ban on non-Basmati rice above $425 (about Rs.16,850) per tonne free on board, and some other superior qualities. The decision will be taken at a cabinet meeting tomorrow,” the minister told reporters on sidelines of a meeting with a Dutch delegation here.

This statement came after the minister held a meeting with Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar over concerns raised by rice-growing states and exporters.

On Oct 9, the government had banned export of non-Basmati rice to strengthen domestic supplies and ensure local prices stay under control during the rice procurement season.