Consumption: Basmati 20% More Expensive

Consumers will pay the cost of certain tariff policies in producer countries which have greatly angered rice. Several importers say they have no choice but to pass this price increase to consumers.

In Mauritius, the last few years, basmati rice has supplanted other varieties available in the market in terms of consumption.

This rice is known for its finesse and naturally fragrant, well suited to the Mauritian cuisine. It is mainly used for the dishes served here on special occasions.

Price plays spoilsport

Basmati rice is popular in Mauritius, one of which is used to concoct tasty dishes that characterize occasions. An increase in the price of this commodity is necessarily cool the consumer. If, now, the price of a pound of basmati rice is around Rs 30, it will move to Rs 36 in the coming weeks. Thus, the bag of 5 kg will increase by Rs 60, because its price is currently around Rs 300, even some brands costing Rs 350 five kilos.

It is receiving orders during that local importers will pass this increase on to consumers. Currently, they have a stock of twenty days. The reason for this increase: the two producing countries such as India and Pakistan have increased their price by 20% there for a fortnight. These are mainly rice in 1121, the 'Pusa', the 'Supreme Basmati' and 'Super Kernel' are concerned.

Ajodha Anand, director of Funny Traders, one of the biggest importers of rice in the country, says that most Mauritians eat rice in 1121, coming from New Delhi, and the 'Super Kernel', which comes from Pakistan. "Both types of rice are known for their finesse. A month ago, we paid 1 600 USD per tonne of basmati rice. This is no longer the case now. We have no choice but to pass the increase to consumers, "he said.

This high quality rice comes mainly from India and Pakistan, only producing countries in the world. Exclusively for export, it is grown in the rich agricultural state of Punjab.

"In 2011, farmers produced surplus. Prices were depressed. The next year, so in 2012, the Indian producers, dissatisfied with this episode, planted 30 to 40% less basmati rice, "says our interlocutor, which explains the 20% increase in price on the international market.