Rahul Suri, CMD, Aeroplane Basmati says higher logistics costs are being passed on without impacting availability, while exports remain stable after brief disruptions. With a weak rupee aiding shipments and long-term shifts toward branded staples, the basmati segment is poised for sustained growth globally.

By Alpha Desk  

Demand for basmati rice has seen a sharp spike despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, as consumers prioritise essential food supplies during periods of uncertainty, according to Rahul Suri, CMD, Aeroplane Basmati.

“Whenever these geopolitical issues come in, or something like COVID comes in… somehow this is the food demand trigger,” Suri said, highlighting how crises tend to drive stocking of staples. He added that while logistics and insurance costs have increased due to regional instability, consumers are willing to absorb higher prices to ensure availability. “It’s become expensive, but it’s not that it’s not available,” he added.

Suri said export operations have stabilised after an initial disruption of 10–12 days, with key ports across the region now functioning normally. He expressed confidence that export volumes for the quarter will remain intact, supported further by a weaker rupee, which benefits exporters.

Aeroplane Basmati, a processor and manufacturer with facilities in Amritsar, Sonipat, and Delhi, has also seen strong investor interest in its IPO. Suri attributed the response to the company’s 40-year legacy and consumer trust. “I’m very thankful to all the investors who have trusted us, and we look forward to keeping their trust,” he said.

Looking ahead, Suri sees significant structural growth opportunities for the basmati segment. He highlighted a global shift from non-basmati to basmati rice as incomes rise, along with increasing consumer preference for branded, packaged products over loose alternatives. With basmati currently accounting for just 5% of the global rice market, he believes the category has substantial room to expand as it evolves into a larger FMCG opportunity.

Published Date: March 27, 2026