Washington
As the UK and India approach the final stages of a long-anticipated free-trade agreement, the British rice industry, valued at £1 billion, is bracing for potential disruptions that could spell trouble for its future. Key players such as Tilda Ltd. and Veetee Rice have long thrived by importing low-tariff unmilled brown rice from India and Pakistan, later refining it into the popular white rice product favored by British consumers.
With India advocating for significant reductions in tariffs on white rice, anxiety is mounting within the industry, which sustains over 3,000 jobs across 16 mills and processing plants spanning from Kent to Yorkshire. Industry representatives have emphasized the critical importance of maintaining existing tariffs on milled rice, expressing concerns that concessions in this area could undermine their operations, hamper future investment, and ultimately lead to job losses.
Despite reassurances from the UK Department for Business and Trade about their commitment to securing a favorable trade deal, there have been persistent complaints from industry leaders regarding a lack of clarity and effective communication on the matter. Negotiations between the two countries, initially considered a significant post-Brexit milestone, have encountered hurdles ranging from visa regulations to market access for various British products.
The expectations of potential leverage in negotiations due to Rishi Sunak’s personal background have not materialized as the talks continue into their 13th round. While both sides remain hopeful for a successful agreement this year, the future of British rice millers remains shrouded in uncertainty, highlighting the urgent need for effective communication and clarity from the authorities.
