The Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREACG) has urged Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to intervene following China’s temporary suspension of three Indian rice-exporting companies based on unfounded allegations. This action reportedly stems from the rejection of non-Basmati rice consignments by Chinese authorities.
In a statement, TREACG emphasized the gravity of the situation and requested government assistance to protect the interests of Indian rice exporters. The association highlighted ongoing concerns regarding allegations of genetically modified organisms (GMO) detected in Indian rice exports to China, which have resulted in considerable financial losses.
TREACG referenced a communication from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) which confirmed that no genetically modified rice is being commercially cultivated in India. The ICAR stated that there is no GMO-related research being conducted in any rice program, assuring that all rice varieties exported from India are non-GMO. This stance is intended to reinforce India’s reliability as a global supplier of non-GM rice.
Nonetheless, despite this assurance, many rice consignments have faced difficulties at Chinese ports. TREACG reported issues such as shipment detentions, rejections, heavy demurrage charges, and additional return freight costs. The term “Back to Town” refers to the diversion of cargo to alternative markets, creating increased contractual risks and trade uncertainties.
On April 16, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) informed three Indian rice exporters about their temporary suspension by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) due to the GMO concerns.
In their appeal, the exporters sought the minister’s intervention in several areas: diplomatic communication with GACC to resolve the GMO testing disputes, the issuance of a clear trade advisory, the recognition of load port non-GMO certification as definitive, a temporary suspension of contract registration for shipments to China, and relief measures for the affected exporters.
According to a report by businessline on April 17, China had canceled the import licenses of three Indian companies approximately one month after rejecting their rice consignments, alleging the presence of genetically modified organisms.
Published on April 27, 2026.
