Asia rice: Indian, Thai rates ease, Vietnam unchanged on less demand

Prices of rice exported from India and Thailand edged lower this week, while Vietnamese rates were stagnant, owing to weak demand and less activity in the market.

India’s 5% broken parboiled variety was quoted this week at $353-$358 per metric ton, down from last week’s $355-$360. Indian 5% broken white rice was priced at $350 to $354 per ton this week.

Prices edged lower due to weak demand and a depreciation in the rupee.

“Overseas buyers are postponing purchases, anticipating a price decline due to an abundant Indian crop,” said Mukesh Jain, president of The Rice Exporters Association Chhattisgarh.

Global rice prices are expected to remain under pressure in 2026, as major producers, including India, Thailand and Vietnam, compete to ship surplus supplies, prompting buyers to delay purchases, trade and industry officials said on Friday.

Vietnam’s 5% broken rice was offered at $362-$366 per ton, flat from last week’s $360-$365 range, traders said on Thursday.

“Activity remains subdued amid thin demand and increased supply from competitors,” said a trader based in Ho Chi Minh City.

State media reported on Wednesday that Vietnam is expected to sign an agreement to export 2.5 million metric tons of rice to the Philippines this year, months after the neighboring country, also Vietnam’s largest rice market, suspended imports.

Thailand’s 5% broken rice was quoted at $370 - $375 per tonne, its lowest since December 4. Traders say demand has been quiet with no major deals involving large volumes of rice.

The exchange rate and domestic prices are also reasons for the price drop, a Bangkok-based rice trader said, adding that supply has also been oversaturated as rice production has yielded good results across the region.

Meanwhile, domestic rice prices in Bangladesh have remained high despite strong harvests and adequate reserves supported by imports, adding to the financial strain on low-income households.