What is IR-64? Origin and Characteristics
IR-64 (International Rice 64) is a long-grain rice variety developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines. It was introduced to India in the 1980s and is now grown extensively in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Unlike basmati rice which grows primarily in the Gangetic plain, IR-64 is a tropical rice that thrives in South and East Indian climate conditions. This is why it is produced in large volumes and sold at highly competitive prices on the world market.
Technical Specifications of IR-64 Parboiled Exported from India
| Parameter | IR-64 Parboiled 5% | IR-64 Parboiled 100% Sortex | IR-64 White 5% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grain Type | Long grain, translucent when cooked | Premium long grain, sorted | Long grain, opaque white |
| Grain Length | 6.0 – 6.4 mm | 6.2 – 6.6 mm | 5.8 – 6.2 mm |
| Broken % | Max 5% | Max 1% (fully sorted) | Max 5% |
| Moisture | Max 14% | Max 13.5% | Max 14% |
| Damaged Grains | Max 1% | Max 0.5% | Max 1% |
| Foreign Matter | Max 0.1% | Max 0.05% | Max 0.1% |
| HS Code | 1006.20 | 1006.20 | 1006.30 |
| Standard Packaging | 25kg / 50kg PP woven | 25kg PP woven or BOPP | 25kg / 50kg PP woven |
| Approx. FOB Price (2026) | $320 – $370/MT | $380 – $430/MT | $300 – $350/MT |
Why West Africa Prefers IR-64 Parboiled
The dominance of IR-64 parboiled in West Africa is not coincidental. It is explained by several factors deeply embedded in regional food habits and economic realities:
1. Parboiling: Nutritional and Practical Advantage
The parboiling process involves steam-cooking paddy rice in its husk before milling. This heat treatment transfers vitamins and minerals from the bran into the grain's core. The result: a more nutritious rice than ordinary white rice, with superior cooking performance (grains remain separate and firm), and a significantly longer shelf life small - a critical advantage in West Africa's tropical climate.
2. Competitive Pricing vs Alternatives
Indian IR-64 Parboiled
/MT FOB
Thai Parboiled Rice
/MT FOB
Pakistani Parboiled
/MT FOB
Indian Advantage
vs Thailand
3. Supply Consistency Throughout the Year
India produces IR-64 year-round across multiple states. Unlike Thailand where exports depend on two harvest seasons, India can fulfil orders continuously with containers available 365 days a year. For a Beninese importer who regularly supplies distributors, this supply reliability is invaluable.
4. Consumer Adoption Across West Africa
Decades of importation have familiarised West African consumers with the taste profile of IR-64 parboiled. In Lagos, Cotonou, Niamey and Accra, households know this rice, know how to cook it, and trust it. Switching varieties requires a marketing effort that most importers prefer to avoid.
IR-64 Parboiled vs Thai Rice: Comparison for the Benin Market
| Factor | Indian IR-64 Parboiled | Thai Parboiled |
|---|---|---|
| FOB Price | $320–370/MT Cheaper | $420–490/MT |
| Grain Length | 6.0–6.4 mm | 6.5–7.0 mm |
| Colour when cooked | Slightly amber | Whiter |
| Cooking performance | Excellent small - separate grains | Excellent |
| Availability | Year-round Advantage | Seasonal |
| Transit time to Cotonou | 18–25 days | 20–28 days |
| Benin market acceptance | Very high | High |
How to Order IR-64 Parboiled Rice from India
- Define your specs small - 5% broken or 100% sortex, 25kg or 50kg packaging, plain or private label bags
- Request FOB quote small - Specify port (Chennai recommended for Benin), quantity (minimum 1×20ft FCL = 24–26 MT)
- Verify certifications small - IEC, APEDA, MCA registration are mandatory checkpoints
- Negotiate payment small - LC for first order, TT for subsequent orders
- Confirm with sample small - Request a physical 1kg sample before confirming large orders
- Oversee documentation small - Phytosanitary certificate, certificate of origin, B/L, APEDA, fumigation certificate
Always request a physical sample before confirming a large order. A credible exporter will send one at no cost by express courier (DHL/FedEx) within 48–72 hours of your request.
FAQ small - IR-64 Parboiled Rice for Beninese Importers
Order IR-64 Parboiled Rice from Karnataka, India
Draba Ventures exports IR-64 parboiled and white rice from Sindhanur, Karnataka. APEDA certified, IEC registered. Free FOB quote for Cotonou or any other port.
