Global Rice Giants Converge: Bharat International Rice Conference Opens Tomorrow
Over 32,000 delegates and buyers from 153 countries gather at Bharat Mandapam for the Bharat International Rice Conference 2026.
New Delhi is set to become the global epicenter of the grain trade as the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 kicks off tomorrow, October 23, at the prestigious Bharat Mandapam. The event has already generated massive momentum, recording a staggering 32,467 registrations, including 4,856 buyers representing 153 different countries.
A Massive Scale of Networking and Trade
Running from October 23 to 25, this three-day extravaganza aims to bridge the gap between Indian rice producers and the global market. The conference will serve as a high-powered meeting point for exporters, importers, millers, policymakers, and food business leaders. The goal is clear: explore untapped markets, analyze the price outlook for 2027, and find innovative ways to increase profitability across the entire supply chain.
The scale of the event is reflected in its numbers:
- 65 expert speakers ready to share insights.
- Nine comprehensive knowledge sessions.
- 2,038 B2B meetings already pre-scheduled via the BIRC digital platform.
- Full occupancy of exhibition spaces for the second year in a row.
Participants from 23 Indian states will be present, ensuring that the country's primary rice-producing and processing hubs are directly connected with international procurement agents.
Strategic Focus: Value Over Volume
To ensure the event translates into actual business, the EY team will be coordinating one-to-one buyer-seller meetings. These sessions will dive deep into specific sourcing requirements, rice varieties, quality standards, and the finalization of potential orders.
“With 2,038 meetings already scheduled, the focus is on meaningful business engagement from the start. The next chapter of India’s rice trade must be about creating more value, not simply selling more tonnes,” stated Dev Garg, National Vice President of IREF.
Decoding the Future of Rice Prices
The knowledge program, spanning the first two days, is designed to equip attendees with critical data. Topics will range from crop surveys and price forecasting to the intricacies of insurance, credit, shipping, and quality certification.
One of the most anticipated sessions is the opening discussion titled “Global Rice Demand and Supply Outlook 2027: Price Crash or New Bull Run?” This session will specifically analyze the potential price trajectories for both Basmati and non-Basmati rice. Additionally, experts will reveal the top 10 rice markets to watch in 2027, weighing factors such as payment risks, competition, and product suitability.
Beyond Business: Experience Zones and a Public Festival
The conference isn't just about spreadsheets and contracts. Attendees can explore nine distinct Experience Zones, including a Global Rice Archive, which will highlight various rice varieties, the stories of farming communities, and the diverse commercial uses of the grain.
The event concludes on October 25 with a vibrant Rice Festival open to the general public. This celebratory day will welcome chefs, families, and consumers. Highlights include:
- A culinary section curated by ITC Hotels.
- Competitive chef battles and influencer cook-offs.
- Cultural performances and interactive quizzes.
The main events will take place in Halls 4 and 5 of Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. For those unable to attend in person, the knowledge sessions will be available via live streaming.