India rice output set for biggest drop in nearly 20 years as weak rains hit yields

India's rice production may fall 6.5% as weak rains hit yields

India, the world’s largest rice producer and exporter, could see its production fall by around 10 million metric tonnes this year, according to industry officials.

India’s rice production faces biggest drop in two decades

Output could fall by 10 million tonnes in 2026/27 from a year ago, but record rice inventories expected to ensure unrestricted export

India rice output set for biggest drop in nearly 20 years as weak rains hit yields

India's rice production faces a significant decline this year. Below-normal rainfall during maturation threatens to reduce crop yields substantially. This drop will increase local prices and make exports more expensive. However, large existing stockpiles will allow India to maintain record export levels. Farmers may receive higher prices for premium varieties in the open market.