India's Rice Bran Export Ban: Impact on Processors and Farmers

The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) has urged the government to lift the ban on the export of De-Oiled Rice Bran (DORB) to protect domestic processors and enhance farmers' income. Imposed in 2023, the ban has resulted in a loss of export markets to substitutes like DDGS and maize, affecting rice bran extraction units, rice mills, and farmers' income. According to the SEA, India exported 5-6 lakh tonnes of DORB annually, worth about Rs 1,000 crore, before the ban was imposed.

Key Takeaways:

  • The export restriction on De-Oiled Rice Bran (DORB) has hurt rice bran extraction units and rice mills, alongside impacting farmers' income.
  • India lost export markets to substitutes like DDGS and maize due to the ban, which was imposed in 2023.
  • The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) noted that India exported 5-6 lakh tonnes of DORB annually, worth about Rs 1,000 crore, before the ban was implemented.
  • The ban has a valid till September 2025.
  • Lifting the ban would 'revive exports, improve farmer returns, generate rural employment, enhance capacity utilisation, and strengthen India's global competitiveness.'
  • The association emphasized that allowing exports of DORP would be a win-win for all stakeholders.
  • The restriction on DORB exports has a significant impact on the domestic edible oil industry, affecting the livelihoods of farmers and processors.

Statistics:

  • 5-6 lakh tonnes of DORB exported annually before the ban (Source: Solvent Extractors' Association of India).
  • Rs 1,000 crore worth of DORB exports annually before the ban (Source: Solvent Extractors' Association of India).
  • September 2025 - Valid deadline for the ban on DORB exports (Source: Original text).
  • Rs 1,000 crore - Worth of DORB exports annually before the ban (Source: Solvent Extractors' Association of India).

Sources:

  • Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) - No specific date mentioned for the publication.