Iran-Israel War Hits Basmati Trade: Exports From RS Pura, Punjab & Haryana Affected

The ripple effects of the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran are now being felt thousands of kilometres away in India’s basmati belt. Traders in R. S. Pura, known for producing premium-quality basmati rice, say exports have been severely hit due to shipping and logistics disruptions caused by the ongoing war. Exporters say nearly four lakh tonnes of Indian basmati rice are currently stranded at ports or in transit as trade routes to Iran remain uncertain. Iran is among the biggest buyers of Indian basmati, widely used in dishes such as Biryani. Traders warn that if the conflict escalates further, it could deepen the crisis for farmers and exporters across Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu and Kashmir, where basmati cultivation is a major source of livelihood.