7,000 MT fortified rice kernel shipment to Madagascar sets new benchmark in global food fortification trade

The Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF), with the support of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), today marked a defining milestone in India’s nutrition-led export strategy with the formal flag-off of a 7,000 metric tonne (MT) consignment of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) to Madagascar.

The milestone follows strong international buyer engagement at the Bharat International Rice Conference 2025, where African delegations expressed significant interest in sourcing fortified staples from India. The consignment, executed by Vi Exports, a member of IREF, reflects India’s capacity to respond swiftly to emerging global nutrition demands with scale, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

This export reinforces India’s strategic push toward value-added agricultural trade, aligned with national priorities on food fortification, global nutrition security, and South–South cooperation. As countries across Africa intensify efforts to combat micronutrient deficiencies, India’s fortified rice ecosystem—supported by robust manufacturing capabilities and export facilitation mechanisms—stands ready to partner in long-term nutrition interventions.

APEDA’s institutional support has been instrumental in strengthening market access, ensuring international standards compliance, and fostering public–private collaboration across the export value chain. The flag-off signals India’s transition from a bulk commodity supplier to a trusted provider of nutrition-enhancing food solutions.

Speaking on the occasion, IREF stated:

“This landmark shipment represents more than a commercial transaction—it reflects India’s commitment to advancing global nutrition security through sustainable trade partnerships. IREF members have consistently invested in fortification technology, quality compliance, and production scalability. With APEDA’s strategic support, we are demonstrating that India can deliver fortified food solutions that are reliable, affordable, and impactful for developing economies.”

The Federation further emphasized that India’s fortified rice exports will play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral agricultural cooperation with African nations, contributing to improved public health outcomes while expanding responsible trade engagement.

The shipment to Madagascar underscores India’s broader policy emphasis on promoting value-added agricultural exports, strengthening global food fortification partnerships, supporting nutrition-focused trade with developing nations, and enhancing India’s position as a reliable supplier of compliant, high-quality fortified staples.

As demand for fortified foods rises across emerging markets, India’s integrated ecosystem—spanning production, regulatory oversight, and export facilitation—positions the country as a dependable long-term partner in addressing hidden hunger through trade-driven solutions.