As China opens to basmati imports, exporters scout for interpreters.

CHANDIGARH: Rice exporters in Karnal, the hub of basmati rice exporters in Haryana, are looking for Chinese language interpreters to explore possibilities of starting exports to China.

"The only hindrance is language and those companies which already have their presence in China can benefit immediately," said Indian Rice Exporters Association president Vijay Setia. Initial exports may be channeled through existing companies in other fields, he added.

The four-year-long effort of basmati exporters came to fruition after China agreed to safety procedures of Indian rice mills and storage handlers. Groups of Chinese had been visiting rice mills and grain markets of Haryana to ensure that their imports are free from heavy doses of pests, parasites and chemicals. The export to China is possible due to the recent upgradation of safety standards in mills and grain markets.

Setia said despite all clearances, one of the major hindrances is the gap in communication. He said exports are likely to pick up slowly as Chinese generally like sticky varieties of rice and Indian rice is fluffy, though certainly better. A few Chinese states prefer long rice like the Indian basmati Pusa 1121.

The opening of exports of basmati and non-basmati rice has come at a time when Karnal has already resumed exports to Iran after a gap of almost one-and-a-half month.

While the Indian rice is the best in the world, Chinese do not like its aromatic taste. As a result, even Pakistani basmati rice has not made inroads in the Chinese market. A very little quantity of the Pakistani rice is being imported by China. India and China are the only countries in the world producing basmati rice and have patent rights.

Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com