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Setback to India’s bid for exclusive market rights for basmati rice in New Zealand and Kenya
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Thursday, 13 November, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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India’s efforts to secure exclusive market rights for its premium basmati rice in New Zealand and Kenya have hit a major roadblock, as both countries have sought more time to evaluate India’s application for the Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition. The setback could delay India’s plan to protect its basmati brand identity in these key export destinations, leaving room for competing varieties from Pakistan to claim market space.
According to officials familiar with the development, New Zealand and Kenya have raised queries over India’s application, particularly regarding the overlapping claims from Pakistan, which also exports rice under the “basmati” label. “The two countries have not rejected India’s application, but they have sought additional clarifications and evidence on the distinctiveness and origin of Indian basmati,” said a senior government official involved in the process.
India, which exports basmati rice worth over $4.5 billion annually, has been aggressively pursuing international GI recognition to safeguard its export interests and prevent misuse of the basmati name. While the European Union (EU) has already recognized “Basmati” as a joint GI of India and Pakistan, India has been pushing for independent recognition in other regions to secure premium market access and brand protection.
Kenya and New Zealand are emerging as promising destinations for Indian basmati rice, with rising demand among diaspora and local consumers. However, without GI protection, Indian exporters fear that cheaper rice from other origins could be misleadingly sold as basmati, diluting the brand’s value.
Trade experts say this setback highlights the growing global challenge of GI negotiations, especially for products shared by more than one country. “India needs to strengthen its documentation, historical evidence, and branding strategy to establish exclusive ownership in newer markets,” said an industry analyst.
Despite the delay, officials remain hopeful that diplomatic discussions and additional submissions will help resolve the matter. The government is also exploring bilateral trade agreements to fast-track GI recognition and protect India’s lucrative basmati exports from imitation and unfair competition in global markets.
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