Origin and development
1121 Basmati was developed through traditional plant breeding programs in the Indian subcontinent and reached commercial release in 2013. It is not a GMO variety. Both Pakistan and India grow it commercially under the same genetic line, with Pakistan's Punjab province producing the bulk of the country's export-grade tonnage.
What makes 1121 special
The defining trait is grain length. Raw kernels measure 8.3mm on average, the longest of any commercial basmati variety. After cooking, grains elongate past 22mm with a 2.5x elongation ratio. The aroma profile is floral and nutty, retained through cooking when paddy is properly aged.
Four processing types
1121 ships in four distinct processing types. Each serves different cuisines and shelf life requirements:
| Type | FOB Karachi | Top Markets |
|---|---|---|
| 1121 White | $1,165-$1,205/MT | UAE, UK, EU |
| 1121 Sella | $1,095-$1,135/MT | Saudi Arabia, Iraq |
| 1121 Golden Sella | $1,110-$1,150/MT | Saudi Arabia, Iraq |
| 1121 Steam | $1,200-$1,240/MT | Iran, GCC, East Africa |
Growing region
Pakistan-origin 1121 is grown exclusively in Punjab, with concentration in Hafizabad, Gujranwala, and Sheikhupura districts. The Kharif cycle runs May to December: planting May-June, harvest October-December. The province's alluvial soils, monsoon rainfall, and cool nights during grain fill drive the variety's characteristic length and aroma.
Key markets
1121 is the dominant Pakistani basmati export across the GCC, Iraq, and the UK. Saudi Arabia and Iraq favor parboiled forms (Sella and Golden Sella) for kabsa, mandi, and biryani. The UAE, UK, and EU retail buyers prefer White for its visual appeal and aroma.
How to buy 1121 Basmati
Standard order minimum is 2 x 20' FCL (~52 MT). Payment is L/C at sight or T/T 30/70. Pre-shipment inspection by SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek is included at 5 FCL or higher. Current FOB prices refresh daily; request a confirmed quote for shipment-specific terms.
For Pakistan rice export logistics across all varieties beyond 1121, see the Pakistan Rice Export Portal.