IR64 is arguably the most important non-basmati rice variety in India's export portfolio. It accounts for a significant share of India's annual rice exports to Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. For importers looking for affordable, high-volume rice with consistent quality, IR64 is often the first choice.
This guide covers everything you need: quality specifications, grade differences, HS codes, packaging standards, and how to source IR64 rice from a reliable Indian exporter.
What is IR64 Rice?
IR64 is an indica rice variety developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines and widely adopted across India. It is a long-grain, non-basmati variety available in both raw (white milled) and parboiled forms. IR64 parboiled rice in particular dominates exports to West Africa, while raw IR64 is popular in the Gulf and Southeast Asia.
The variety is grown across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal. Karnataka's Sindhanur-Raichur belt is among the key production zones, offering consistent grain quality and large-scale milling capacity.
IR64 parboiled rice is the dominant variety exported to Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, and other West African markets — driven by its firm texture, resistance to breakage during shipping, and competitive pricing.
IR64 Rice — Quality Specifications
| Parameter | Raw IR64 Standard | Parboiled IR64 Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Type | Long grain, white milled | Long grain, parboiled |
| Moisture Content | Below 14% | Below 14% |
| Broken Grain % | Below 5% (premium) / 25% (FAQ) | Below 5% (premium) / 25% (FAQ) |
| Grain Length | 6.0–6.5mm avg | 6.0–6.5mm avg |
| Admixture | Below 1% | Below 1% |
| Purity | 99%+ | 99%+ |
| Colour | White, uniformly milled | Amber/golden, uniform |
IR64 Grade Types Explained
IR64 rice is exported in multiple grades depending on the broken grain percentage. Understanding the grade system helps importers select the right product for their market:
- 5% Broken (Premium Grade) — highest quality, used for retail packs and premium wholesale. Minimal broken grains.
- 15% Broken — mid-grade, suitable for institutional buyers, canteens, and mid-range retail.
- 25% Broken (FAQ Grade) — Fair Average Quality, widely traded for bulk/commodity supply in Africa and institutional markets.
- 100% Broken — used for rice flour, brewing, and food processing industries.
HS Code for IR64 Rice
- HS Code 1006.30 — Semi-milled or wholly milled IR64 (raw white)
- HS Code 1006.40 — Broken rice (for 25% or 100% broken grades)
- HS Code 1006.30 — Parboiled IR64 also falls under this heading in most markets
Key Export Markets for IR64
- West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Togo) — largest volume market, primarily parboiled 25% broken
- East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) — raw and parboiled both traded
- UAE & Gulf — labour camp supply and institutional catering
- Southeast Asia — re-export and processing hubs
- Bangladesh & Sri Lanka — deficit years supplement with IR64 imports
Packaging for IR64 Export
- 50kg PP woven bags — standard for Africa bulk trade
- 25kg PP woven bags — preferred for Gulf and retail markets
- Private label bags — available in all sizes with your brand
- Jumbo bags / 1MT big bags — for processing industry buyers
Minimum Order Quantity & Payment Terms
- MOQ: 1 x 20ft FCL (approximately 24–26 MT depending on packaging)
- Payment: LC at sight or TT (30% advance + 70% against BL copy)
- Lead Time: 7–14 days from order confirmation
- Ports: JNPT Mumbai, Mundra, Chennai, Krishnapatnam
Source IR64 Rice from Karnataka
Draba Ventures supplies premium and FAQ grade IR64 (raw and parboiled) to buyers worldwide. Get your quote in 24 hours.
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