Indian rice export rates decline, Vietnam, Thai rates rise

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FE Team | Published: May 08, 2026 22:34:17

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Indian rice export prices extended losses on subdued demand from African nations and ample supplies, while export rates in Vietnam and Thailand rose as the rice harvest season comes to an end in both countries, reports Reuters.
India's 5% broken parboiled variety was quoted at $337-$344 per ton this week, down from last week's $344-$350. Indian 5% broken white rice was priced at $336-$340 per ton.
"Most African countries are not placing new orders. Winter-crop supplies are rising, and that's weighing on prices," said a New Delhi-based trader.
Vietnam's 5% broken rice was offered at $395-$400 per metric ton on Thursday, up from $375-$380 two weeks ago, according to traders.
Vietnamese markets were closed last week for a public holiday.
"Prices are rising on tight supplies, while the country's next harvest won't begin until the end of July or early August," a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City said. Traders said prices are expected to stay at the current levels or rise further until the new harvest.
Vietnam exported 3.28 million tons of rice in the first four months of this year, down 4.1% from a year earlier, according to government data.
Elsewhere, Thailand's 5% broken rice rose to around $404 to $405 per tonne, from $395-$400 last week.
The harvest season is nearing its end, with output at regular levels. The next crop cycle will be monitored closely, as forecasts of an El Niño event could raise concerns over rice supply, a Bangkok-based trader said.
Demand has not been particularly strong, with buying interest coming mainly from regular Asian customers, a trader said.
African buyers have also slowed imports due to new government measures promoting domestic production, which have resulted in stricter rice import requirements, another trader added.