Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce announced that rice exports for 2025 have exceeded expectations, reaching 7.9 million tons with a value of 148 billion baht. This achievement surpasses the forecasted target of 7.5 million tons, largely due to increased year-end orders from major importers in anticipation of the Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year holidays. The ministry is planning to further enhance rice exports in 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Arada Fuengthong, Director-General of the Department of International Trade, highlighted that the most exported type of rice was white rice, accounting for 3.62 million tons or 45.82% of total Thai rice exports, despite a decline of 39.87% from the previous year. Thai jasmine rice followed with 1.76 million tons, parboiled rice at 1.51 million tons, fragrant rice at 0.59 million tons, glutinous rice at 0.33 million tons, and brown rice at 0.09 million tons. The overall increase in exports, except for white and fragrant rice, was due to intense price competition from major exporters like Vietnam, India, and Pakistan.
The primary markets for Thai rice were Iraq, South Africa, the United States, China, and Senegal. Notably, China showed a significant increase of 48.95% in imports. However, the Director-General noted that 2026 will present challenges, with expected price competition due to increased global production and decreased demand from countries like Indonesia. The global economic situation, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical conflicts could also impact Thai rice exports.
The Department of International Trade aims to boost exports by collaborating with the private sector and focusing on maintaining existing markets while expanding into new ones. Key strategies include trade delegations to strengthen relationships with importers in Japan, China, the United States, Canada, and South Africa, and negotiating government-to-government rice sales agreements with China and Singapore.
Plans also include expanding the refined rice market to Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, promoting Thai rice through international trade fairs, and utilizing online channels to raise awareness and stimulate demand. By connecting small-scale producers with importers, the department seeks to enhance business opportunities and secure the future of Thai rice exports.