HS Code:
Rice flour, classified under HS Code 1102.90, is a fine powder made from ground rice, widely used in food production, especially in gluten-free baking and as a thickening agent. It is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines for making noodles, dumplings, and desserts. The global trade of rice flour is driven by increasing demand for gluten-free products, dietary preferences, and the growing popularity of Asian cuisine worldwide. It is primarily produced in rice-growing regions and exported to markets with high demand for specialty flours.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $500 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$120 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$50 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
8.5%
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain South Asian countries to protect local markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like ASEAN or EU trade pacts)
Rising demand for gluten-free products
Increased exports to North America and Europe as consumers shift to gluten-free diets due to health concerns and celiac disease awareness.
2020-2022
Growth in Asian cuisine popularity
Higher demand for rice flour in Western markets for preparing Asian dishes, driving trade from Southeast Asian countries.
2019-2022
Sustainability and organic certification
Growing preference for organic rice flour has led to premium pricing and market expansion for certified producers.
2021-2023
The European Union reduced import tariffs on rice flour from ASEAN countries under the EU-ASEAN trade agreement to promote food diversity and support gluten-free markets.
January 2023
Expected to increase rice flour imports from Thailand and Vietnam by 15% over the next two years.
The US Food and Drug Administration introduced stricter guidelines for gluten-free labeling, affecting rice flour imports and requiring additional certification.
August 2022
May increase compliance costs for exporters but also boost consumer confidence in rice flour products.
India announced subsidies and export incentives for rice-based products, including rice flour, to capture larger market shares in the Middle East and Africa.
March 2023
Likely to enhance India's position as a key exporter, potentially affecting market dynamics for other suppliers.