Skip to main content

UAE Temporarily Suspends Rice Exports Amid Global Food Concerns

The United Arab Emirates has recently made headlines by temporarily suspending the export and re-export of rice, causing ripples in the global food market. According to the Ministry of Economy, the decision impacts rice of Indian origin imported after July 20. This move comes in the wake of India's own decision to ban some overseas sales of rice with immediate effect.


India, a major rice exporter, contributes over 40% of all global rice shipments. The recent ban from India primarily affected non-basmati white rice exports, which make up about a quarter of their total rice exports. The aim was to ensure ample domestic supply and curb increasing prices in the local market.


With rice being a staple for more than three billion people worldwide, rising demand and various constraints, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and weather disruptions like El Nino, have raised concerns over supply. India's ban and the UAE's suspension of rice exports have deepened worries about food insecurity in countries heavily reliant on rice imports.


Global rice inventories are currently at their lowest in years, and the El Nino weather phenomenon in 2023 adds another element of uncertainty. This cyclical event tends to bring hotter and drier conditions to Asia, which may impact rice production. With an upcoming general election in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking measures to address food inflation, considering it a central issue for the electorate.


As global food concerns continue to escalate, the decisions made by India and the UAE regarding rice exports hold significant implications for food security and availability worldwide. Monitoring and addressing the challenges faced in the food market will be critical to ensure that staple foods remain accessible to everyone in need. 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...

UAE's Foreign Trade Surge Highlights Strategic Economic Vision

  The UAE's foreign trade reached a record AED5.23 trillion (US$1.42 trillion) in 2024, marking a 49% increase since 2021 and reinforcing its global economic influence. Despite fluctuating global market conditions, the country managed to post a trade surplus of AED492.3 billion (US$134 billion), showcasing the strength of its trade frameworks and diversified economy. According to the World Trade Organisation, the UAE has maintained its position as the Middle East and Africa's foremost trade community since 2014, while steadily climbing the global ranks. In merchandise trade, the UAE placed 11th in exports and 14th in imports in 2024. It contributed 2.5% of global exports and 2.2% of imports, reflecting a robust trading ecosystem that bridges major global markets. The services sector also delivered notable gains. From 2014 to 2024, the UAE rose to 13th globally in service exports. Service transactions in 2024 totaled AED1.036 trillion, of which AED646.6 billion were exports. The...

UAE’s Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed arrives in Qatar on official visit

  HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, arrived in Qatar for an official visit, where he was warmly received by the Deputy Emir of Qatar at Doha International Airport. On Tuesday, Sheikh Khaled met with HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, in Doha. The meeting underscored the strong brotherly ties between the UAE and Qatar, with both leaders engaging in detailed discussions aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation. Sheikh Khaled conveyed greetings from UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed.  The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in key strategic sectors of mutual interest. Sheikh Khaled expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Emir of Qatar for the warm reception and hospitality, expressing hopes for Qatar's continued progress. He reaffirmed the UAE's leadership and p...