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  • 26 Sep 2026

Top Basmati Rice Varieties for Export: 1121, 1509, 1718, Pusa, 1401 and Sharbati Compared

Basmati rice is one of India's most important agricultural export products, known for its long grains, distinctive aroma, fluffy texture, and cooking quality. Among the many varieties available in the market, 1121 Basmati Rice, 1509 Basmati Rice, 1718 Basmati Rice, Pusa Basmati Rice, 1401 Basmati Rice, and Sharbati Rice are commonly considered by international buyers, importers, wholesalers, distributors, and food businesses.

Each variety has different characteristics related to grain length, aroma, cooking expansion, price, processing requirements, and export demand. Therefore, choosing the right rice variety depends on the destination market, buyer requirements, application, quality specifications, and budget.

Sunways Trading is a top-notch entity engaged in manufacturing, exporting, and wholesale supplying a range of Basmati Rice, Non-Basmati Rice, Soyabean Meal, Wheat, and Yellow Corn for domestic and international buyers.

Basmati Rice Varieties Commonly Considered for Export

Rice Variety General Grain Profile Aroma Cooking Expansion Typical Buyer Interest
1121 Basmati Rice Extra-long grain Strong Excellent Premium export markets
1509 Basmati Rice Long, slender grain Good Very good Price-sensitive export buyers
1718 Basmati Rice Long grain Strong Very good Premium and regular buyers
Pusa Basmati Rice Long, aromatic grain Good Good Retail and food-service markets
1401 Basmati Rice Long grain Good Very good Export and wholesale markets
Sharbati Rice Medium-long/slender grain Mild Good Value-focused buyers

Specifications can vary according to crop, processing, milling, ageing, moisture, broken percentage, and buyer requirements.


1. 1121 Basmati Rice

1121 Basmati Rice is one of the most recognized long-grain Basmati varieties in international rice trade. It is particularly known for its extra-long grain length, attractive appearance, aroma, and high cooking expansion.

After cooking, quality 1121 rice can produce long, separate grains, making it suitable for dishes such as biryani, pulao and other rice-based preparations.

Key Features of 1121 Basmati Rice

  • Extra-long slender grains
  • Attractive white appearance
  • Distinctive Basmati aroma
  • Excellent cooking expansion
  • Separate grains after cooking
  • Suitable for premium rice products
  • Available in different processing grades

Why Exporters Consider 1121 Rice

International buyers looking for premium long-grain Indian rice may specifically request 1121 Basmati Rice for export because of its grain appearance and cooking characteristics.

It is commonly considered for:

  • Biryani restaurants
  • Hotels and catering businesses
  • Food distributors
  • Retail rice brands
  • Wholesale importers
  • Private-label rice packaging

2. 1509 Basmati Rice

1509 Basmati Rice is another important variety in the Indian Basmati rice export market. It offers long grains, good aroma and attractive cooking characteristics.

One of its major commercial advantages is that it can provide a long-grain Basmati option for buyers looking for a balance between quality and cost.

Key Features

  • Long and slender grains
  • Good aroma
  • Good cooking expansion
  • Suitable for everyday Basmati consumption
  • Available in raw and processed forms
  • Suitable for bulk export

1509 Basmati Rice for Export

Importers and wholesalers may consider 1509 Basmati Rice when they need a long-grain rice product for retail, restaurants, catering and food-service applications.

It can be suitable for buyers who want Basmati characteristics while maintaining a particular purchasing budget.


3. 1718 Basmati Rice

1718 Basmati Rice is another long-grain Basmati variety available to international rice buyers. It is valued for its grain appearance, aroma and cooking performance.

Depending on processing and quality parameters, 1718 rice can be supplied to wholesalers, importers, distributors and food-service businesses.

Features of 1718 Basmati Rice

  • Long slender grains
  • Good aroma
  • Good cooking expansion
  • Attractive cooked appearance
  • Suitable for biryani and rice dishes
  • Available for bulk requirements

Export Applications

1718 Basmati Rice can be considered for:

  • International wholesalers
  • Rice importers
  • Restaurant suppliers
  • Food-service distributors
  • Retail packaging companies
  • Private-label brands

4. Pusa Basmati Rice

Pusa Basmati Rice is another established Basmati category used in domestic and international markets. It is appreciated for its aromatic characteristics and long grain profile.

Different Pusa Basmati types and processing grades may be available depending on the supplier and market requirement.

Main Features

  • Long slender grain
  • Pleasant aroma
  • Good cooking quality
  • Suitable for household consumption
  • Suitable for restaurants and catering
  • Available in different packing sizes

Pusa Basmati Rice can be supplied for both wholesale and retail requirements, depending on the required specifications.


5. 1401 Basmati Rice

1401 Basmati Rice is also traded in the Basmati rice market and can be considered by buyers looking for long-grain aromatic rice.

Its suitability for export depends on factors such as grain quality, moisture, broken percentage, milling quality, crop season and buyer specifications.

1401 Basmati Rice Features

  • Long grain
  • Aromatic characteristics
  • Good cooking performance
  • Suitable for bulk supply
  • Suitable for food-service businesses
  • Can be supplied according to buyer specifications

For international trade, buyers generally need to confirm the required specifications before placing bulk orders.


6. Sharbati Rice

Sharbati Rice is commonly positioned as a value-oriented alternative to premium Basmati varieties. It offers a slender grain profile and good cooking characteristics at a comparatively accessible price point.

It is often considered by wholesalers, distributors and food businesses serving customers who want an economical long-grain rice option.

Key Features of Sharbati Rice

  • Slender grains
  • Mild aroma
  • Good cooking quality
  • Value-focused option
  • Suitable for regular consumption
  • Available for bulk supply

Sharbati Rice can therefore be useful for buyers targeting budget-conscious consumers and large-volume food-service requirements.


1121 vs 1509 vs 1718 vs Pusa vs 1401 vs Sharbati Rice

Choosing between different rice varieties depends on the buyer's requirements rather than simply selecting the variety with the longest grain.

Factor 1121 1509 1718 Pusa 1401 Sharbati
Grain Length Extra-long Long Long Long Long Medium-long/slender
Aroma Strong Good Strong Good Good Mild
Cooking Expansion Excellent Very good Very good Good Very good Good
Market Position Premium Value + Basmati Premium/regular Regular/premium Regular/export Value-focused
Biryani Use Excellent Excellent Excellent Good Good Good
Wholesale Demand High High High Good Good High
Export Suitability High High High High High Selected markets

Actual export suitability and buyer demand depend on destination, specifications, crop quality, certifications and commercial terms.


How to Choose Basmati Rice for Export?

International buyers should evaluate more than just the variety name before purchasing Basmati rice in bulk.

1. Grain Length

Grain length is one of the first specifications considered by many buyers. Premium long-grain varieties are generally selected when appearance is an important factor.

2. Aroma

Authentic aromatic characteristics are important for Basmati rice, especially when the product is intended for premium retail or restaurant markets.

3. Cooking Expansion

Buyers should evaluate how the rice performs after cooking, including grain elongation, separation, texture and appearance.

4. Broken Percentage

The percentage of broken grains can significantly affect the commercial value and intended application of rice.

5. Moisture Content

Moisture is an important quality parameter for storage, transportation and milling. Export buyers generally specify acceptable moisture limits according to their requirements.

6. Milling Quality

The quality of milling can affect the appearance of the final product. Buyers may specify requirements related to polished rice, whole grains and broken grains.

7. Ageing

Aged Basmati rice is often preferred for certain applications because ageing can influence cooking characteristics. Buyers should clearly specify whether they require fresh-season or aged rice.

8. Packaging

Export rice can be packed according to the requirements of the importer, distributor or retail brand.

Common packaging options may include:

  • 5 kg bags
  • 10 kg bags
  • 20 kg bags
  • 25 kg bags
  • 50 kg bags
  • Custom private-label packaging

Basmati Rice Export Quality Specifications

Before confirming a bulk order, exporters and importers should discuss the complete specification sheet.

Important parameters may include:

  • Variety = 1121 / 1509 / 1718 / Pusa / 1401 / Sharbati
  • Rice Type = Raw / Steam / Sella / Golden Sella
  • Grain = Long / Extra Long
  • Moisture = As per agreed specification
  • Broken = As per buyer requirement
  • Foreign Matter = As per agreed specification
  • Sortex = Available as required
  • Packaging = Bulk / Retail / Private Label
  • Quantity = As per purchase order
  • Origin = India

Specifications should be finalized between the buyer and supplier before shipment.


Raw, Steam, Sella and Golden Sella Basmati Rice

The same rice variety may be available in different processing forms.



Raw Basmati Rice

Raw rice is processed through conventional milling without parboiling. It is widely used for household cooking, restaurants and food-service applications.

Steam Basmati Rice

Steam processing involves controlled steaming before drying and milling. It can provide different cooking and grain-handling characteristics compared with raw rice.

Sella Basmati Rice

Sella, or parboiled rice, undergoes a parboiling process that can influence grain firmness and cooking performance.

Golden Sella Basmati Rice

Golden Sella is a parboiled rice product with a characteristic golden appearance. It is widely traded in international markets and is commonly used for biryani and other commercial food applications.


Why Indian Basmati Rice Is Important for Export Markets

India has a major role in the global trade of Basmati rice. The combination of aromatic characteristics, long grains and different processing options allows Indian suppliers to serve different categories of international buyers.

Exporters can supply rice to:

  • Importers
  • Distributors
  • Supermarkets
  • Restaurant chains
  • Hotels
  • Catering companies
  • Food manufacturers
  • Wholesale traders
  • Private-label brands

Demand and pricing can vary significantly according to destination country, variety, quality, crop season, processing type, packaging and order quantity.


Basmati Rice for Wholesale Buyers

Wholesale buyers generally need consistent quality and reliable supply rather than simply focusing on the lowest purchase price.

For a bulk Basmati rice order, buyers should discuss:

  1. Required variety
  2. Rice processing type
  3. Grain length
  4. Broken percentage
  5. Moisture specification
  6. Packaging requirement
  7. Quantity
  8. Shipment destination
  9. Required certifications
  10. Inspection and documentation requirements

A detailed specification sheet can help both the buyer and supplier avoid misunderstandings during bulk procurement.


Sunways Trading – Basmati Rice Manufacturer, Exporter & Wholesale Supplier

Sunways Trading is engaged in the manufacturing, exporting and wholesale supply of agricultural commodities, including Basmati Rice, Non-Basmati Rice, Soyabean Meal, Wheat and Yellow Corn.

For buyers looking for Basmati rice suppliers in India, Sunways Trading can cater to bulk and wholesale requirements according to product specifications and order requirements.

The company can serve different types of buyers, including:

  • Basmati rice importers
  • International wholesalers
  • Rice distributors
  • Restaurant suppliers
  • Food-service businesses
  • Retailers
  • Private-label companies
  • Commercial food buyers

For export enquiries, buyers should provide the required rice variety, quantity, processing type, packaging, destination country and quality specifications so that the appropriate product can be discussed.


Which Basmati Rice Variety Should Exporters Consider?

There is no single variety suitable for every international buyer. The appropriate choice depends on the target market and buyer requirements.

1121 Basmati Rice is widely associated with extra-long grains and premium applications.

1509 Basmati Rice can be considered when buyers want long-grain Basmati characteristics with a value-oriented positioning.

1718 Basmati Rice provides another long-grain option for premium and regular commercial requirements.

Pusa Basmati Rice can be considered for aromatic rice requirements across retail and food-service markets.

1401 Basmati Rice is another option for buyers looking for long-grain Basmati rice for wholesale and export supply.

Sharbati Rice is generally considered when the buyer is looking for a more economical slender-grain rice option.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Basmati rice varieties are commonly considered for export?

Commonly traded varieties include 1121, 1509, 1718, Pusa Basmati, 1401 and Sharbati Rice, with the appropriate choice depending on destination market and buyer specifications.

2. What is 1121 Basmati Rice used for?

1121 Basmati Rice is commonly used for premium rice applications such as biryani, restaurants, catering and retail products where long grain appearance and cooking expansion are important.

3. Is 1509 Basmati Rice suitable for export?

Yes, 1509 Basmati Rice is traded in international markets and can be supplied for wholesale, restaurant, food-service and retail applications according to buyer specifications.

4. What is the difference between 1121 and 1509 Basmati Rice?

Both are long-grain Basmati varieties, but they can differ in grain characteristics, processing, cooking performance, market positioning and commercial price. The exact specification should be confirmed with the supplier.

5. What is Sharbati Rice?

Sharbati Rice is a slender-grain rice variety generally positioned as a value-oriented alternative to premium Basmati rice.

6. Can Basmati Rice be supplied in private-label packaging?

Yes, private-label packaging can be discussed for suitable bulk and retail requirements, subject to order quantity, packaging specifications and commercial terms.

7. What information should an importer provide for a Basmati rice enquiry?

An importer should ideally mention the required variety, quantity, processing type, grain specification, packaging, destination country and quality requirements.

8. Who can buy Basmati Rice in bulk from India?

Importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, restaurant suppliers, catering businesses and private-label food companies can source Basmati rice in bulk from Indian suppliers.


The Indian Basmati rice market offers several varieties for different export and wholesale requirements. 1121, 1509, 1718, Pusa, 1401 and Sharbati Rice differ in grain characteristics, aroma, cooking performance and commercial positioning.

For exporters and importers, the right product should be selected according to destination-market demand, required specifications, application, packaging, quantity and budget rather than relying only on the variety name.

Sunways Trading supplies and exports Basmati Rice, Non-Basmati Rice, Soyabean Meal, Wheat and Yellow Corn, supporting wholesale and international buyers with product requirements based on their specifications.