Iran is one of the major importers of Indian basmati rice because of its superior cooking quality, long grain length, and rich natural aroma. Iranian traders, wholesalers, and food distributors regularly search for the latest basmati rice price in Iran to make smart and profitable buying decisions. In this blog, we cover the basmati rice price in Iran, key price-influencing factors, the most popular varieties, and a complete import guide for rice from India to Iran.
This guide is especially useful for Iranian importers, bulk buyers, distributors, and private-label brands looking to source premium Indian basmati rice at competitive prices with reliable export support.
Basmati Rice Rates
Variety | Crop | Type | Grade | Price (USD/MT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1121 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Steam | A+ | 1,045 |
1121 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Steam | A | 1,028 |
1121 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Golden Sella | A | 977 |
1121 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Creamy Sella | A | 886 |
1509 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Steam | A+ | 903 |
1509 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Steam | A | 897 |
1509 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Golden Sella | A+ | 846 |
1509 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Golden Sella | A | 835 |
1509 Basmati | New Crop 2025 | Creamy Sella | A+ | 806 |
Non-Basmati Rice Rates
Variety | Crop | Type | Price (USD/MT) |
PR-11/14 | New Crop 2025 | Steam | 551 |
PR-11/14 | New Crop 2025 | Golden Sella | 579 |
PR-11/14 | New Crop 2025 | Creamy Sella | 556 |
Sona Masoori | New Crop 2025 | Steam | 497 |
Iran is one of the largest importers of Indian basmati rice in the Middle East, driven by strong consumer demand for premium long-grain rice and competitively priced non-basmati varieties. From Tehran to Mashhad and Shiraz, rising consumption in restaurants, hotels, catering businesses, and households has significantly increased basmati rice demand in Iran over the past few years.
Iranian buyers prefer Indian basmati rice because of its long grain length, rich aroma, consistent cooking quality, and reliable food safety standards. Compared to other origins, Indian rice offers a better balance of quality and price, making it ideal for both premium retail brands and bulk foodservice suppliers.
India’s large production capacity and well-developed export infrastructure allow Iranian importers to source rice consistently throughout the year. Many mills that export basmati rice from India to the Middle East regularly ship to Iran via ports such as Bandar Abbas and Chabahar, ensuring stable supply even during high-demand periods like Ramadan, Nowruz, and the winter season.
Major urban markets such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz have strong demand for premium 1121 and 1509 basmati rice, while smaller cities and provincial markets rely more on affordable Indian non-basmati rice for everyday consumption. This wide range of quality and pricing options helps India maintain a strong Indian rice market share in Iran, making it the preferred sourcing destination for Iranian wholesalers and distributors.
Most Popular Basmati Rice Varieties in Iran
Basmati rice is widely consumed across Iran because of its long grains, rich aroma, and excellent cooking performance. Indian basmati rice dominates the Iranian market, as importers, wholesalers, supermarkets, and the HoReCa sector (hotels, restaurants, and catering) prefer Indian origin for its consistent quality and competitive pricing. Below are the most popular basmati rice varieties in Iran.
1121 Basmati Rice in Iran
1121 basmati rice is the most in-demand variety in Iran. It is known for its extra-long slender grains and exceptional elongation after cooking. Because of its premium appearance and strong aroma, 1121 basmati rice is highly preferred by Iranian hotels, restaurants, and high-end retailers who cater to premium customers.
Traditional Basmati Rice in Iran
Traditional basmati rice is valued for its natural fragrance and authentic taste. It is commonly used in Iranian households and small food businesses. This variety is more affordable than 1121 basmati, making it a popular choice for everyday consumption while still delivering the classic basmati experience.
Steam Basmati Rice in Iran
Steam basmati rice is processed using steam technology, which gives the grains a clean, bright look and improves shelf life. It cooks fluffy and non-sticky, making it a favorite among Iranian wholesalers and bulk distributors who require stable quality and longer storage.
Sella (Parboiled) Basmati Rice in Iran
Sella basmati rice is parboiled before milling, which strengthens the grains and reduces breakage during transport and cooking. This makes it ideal for large-scale cooking, catering companies, and commercial kitchens in Iran, where consistent performance is essential.
Pusa Basmati Rice in Iran
Pusa basmati rice offers a perfect balance between quality and price. With a pleasant aroma, good grain length, and competitive pricing, it is a preferred choice for Iranian buyers looking for reliable basmati rice at economical rates, especially in wholesale and retail markets.
Factors Affecting Basmati Rice Price in Iran
The basmati rice price in Iran is not fixed and changes based on multiple domestic and international factors. Since Iran relies heavily on imported basmati rice from India, any change in production costs, freight rates, currency exchange, or market demand can directly influence prices. For Iranian importers, wholesalers, and bulk buyers, understanding these factors is essential for making profitable purchasing decisions.
Rice Variety and Quality
The price of basmati rice in Iran varies depending on the variety and quality grade. Popular types such as 1121 basmati, traditional basmati, steam basmati, and sella basmati are priced differently. Premium grades with extra-long grains, stronger aroma, and better cooking performance are more expensive than standard quality rice.Aging of Basmati Rice
Aged basmati rice commands a higher price in the Iranian market. Rice aged for 12 to 24 months develops superior aroma, improved texture, and better grain elongation after cooking. Because aging involves storage costs and higher demand from premium buyers, aged basmati rice is sold at a premium compared to new crop rice.
Import Route and Transportation Costs
Logistics play a major role in determining the final basmati rice price in Iran. Rice shipped from India is usually delivered to Iranian ports such as Bandar Abbas or Chabahar. Ocean freight charges, port handling, customs clearance, and inland transportation all add to the landed cost, which directly affects the selling price in Iran.
Currency Exchange Rates
Fluctuations in the Iranian Rial (IRR) against the US Dollar significantly impact rice import costs. Since basmati rice is traded internationally in USD, any weakening of the local currency increases the overall cost for Iranian importers, leading to higher market prices.
Demand and Seasonal Consumption
Demand for basmati rice in Iran increases during Ramadan, Nowruz, weddings, and festive seasons. During these high-demand periods, prices often rise due to increased consumption and tighter supply from exporters.
Packaging and Branding
Branded basmati rice packed in printed PP, BOPP, or jute bags usually costs more than loose or unbranded bulk rice. Private labeling, better packaging quality, and retail-ready presentation add to the final price but also increase consumer trust and sales value in the Iranian market.
Government Policies and Import Regulations
Import duties, customs procedures, banking restrictions, and trade regulations also affect basmati rice prices in Iran. Any change in import policy, documentation requirements, or port clearance delays can increase costs for importers and impact market pricing.
Top Benefits of Buying Indian Rice for Iran
Indian rice offers strong advantages for Iranian importers, making India the most preferred sourcing country for basmati and non-basmati rice.
Why do Iranian buyers prefer Indian basmati rice?
- Consistent and export-grade quality standards
- Wide range of basmati and non-basmati rice varieties
- Competitive pricing that delivers better profit margins
- Reliable shipping routes to Iranian ports
- Strong and stable supply chain from India
- Custom packaging and private-label branding options
In addition, many Indian exporters who supply Africa, the Middle East, and CIS countries also serve the Iranian market, which increases confidence among Iranian rice importers and distributors.
How to Get the Best Basmati Rice Price for Iran
Iranian buyers can secure the best prices and quality by following these proven strategies:
- Buy directly from Indian rice exporters, not traders
- Place bulk orders to get better CIF and FOB rates
- Choose the right basmati variety based on Iranian market demand
- Avoid unnecessary middlemen to reduce cost
- Request updated price lists frequently, as global prices fluctuate
Building a long-term relationship with a reliable Indian supplier like Mega Grain ensures stable pricing, consistent quality, and priority shipment allocation for the Iranian market
How to Choose a Reliable Indian Rice Supplier for Iran
With hundreds of rice mills operating in India, Iranian importers must carefully evaluate suppliers before placing bulk orders. A reliable basmati rice supplier for Iran should meet strict quality, compliance, and export standards to avoid shipment delays and quality disputes.
Supplier Selection Checklist
Before finalizing an Indian exporter, Iranian buyers should verify:
- APEDA registration (official Indian export authority)
- Latest moisture and broken grain reports
- Cooking and quality samples before shipment
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- Proven experience exporting to Iran and the Middle East
- Fast and professional communication during the order process
Most basmati rice importers in Iran prefer working with suppliers that are among the top rice exporters in India, as this ensures strong production capacity, reliable documentation, and on-time shipments. This approach helps Iranian buyers confidently import Indian rice in bulk without facing quality or logistics problems.
Mega Grain is a trusted Indian rice exporter supplying premium basmati rice to Iran with consistent quality, competitive pricing, and reliable shipping support. Contact us today for bulk rice export inquiries to Iran.
Conclusion
Understanding the basmati rice price in Iran allows importers, wholesalers, and food distributors to make smarter buying decisions. India continues to be the most dependable source of high-quality basmati rice for the Iranian market due to its strong supply chain and wide range of varieties. By selecting the right rice type, timing purchases strategically, and working with a trusted exporter like Mega Grain, Iranian buyers can secure profitable deals and meet growing market demand with confidence.