India rice exports face delays as anchorage buildup grows amid Middle East tensions

• Freight rates surge as vessels wait outside Indian ports
  
  
• Kakinada dominates cargo volumes with strong Africa-bound shipments
  
  

India's rice export programme for March 2026 is facing mounting logistical pressure as a growing number of vessels remain under anchorage amid disruptions in global shipping routes. Data for week 1 indicates that nearly 295,400 tonnes (t) of rice cargo are currently lined up at anchorage outside major loading hubs, reflecting delays in vessel berthing and onward voyages.

The bulk of the cargo is concentrated at Kakinada Port, which accounts for the overwhelming share of anchored shipments. Cargo volumes include a mix of IR64 5% parboiled rice, white rice grades such as 5% WR and 20-25% WR, and bagged rice consignments, indicating diversified export demand across multiple markets. Smaller volumes are also awaiting loading near Kandla Port, where a shipment of 7,200 t of bagged rice is listed under anchorage.

Africa-bound cargo dominates anchorage lineup

A significant portion of the anchored shipments is destined for West African markets. Cargoes totaling substantial volumes are scheduled for discharge at Benin through Port of Cotonou, as well as Togo via Port of Lom and Sierra Leone through Port of Freetown. These markets remain key destinations for Indian non-basmati rice, particularly IR64 and broken rice grades.

War-related shipping disruptions intensify delays

The buildup of vessels at anchorage is occurring against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran, which have disrupted shipping flows across critical maritime routes. Rising security concerns and rerouting of vessels have pushed freight rates higher, while additional war-risk surcharges are increasing overall shipping costs. As vessels face scheduling uncertainties and longer turnaround times, exporters are experiencing delays in cargo loading and dispatch.

Despite the logistical constraints, export demand remains intact, particularly from African markets where Indian rice continues to maintain a competitive position in global supply chains. However, sustained shipping disruptions could influence near-term trade flows and increase CIF prices in key importing regions.