THE RICE EXPORT BOOM: KEY PLAYERS IN THE GLOBAL MARKET

The Rice Export Boom: Key Players in the Global Market

The Rice Export Boom: Key Players in the Global Market

Blog Article

Rice is a staple food. It is a vital component of global trade. Rice is the most widely consumed grain globally, it feeds approximately 50% of the global population.

In 2025, the global rice export market is booming because of increasing consumption in Asia and Africa, climate impacts on domestic production in importing countries,, and strategic policy shifts in major exporting nations. 

But who are the key players in the global market?

Let us discuss the top players in the global rice market and understand how their strategies and performance are steering the trade tide.

The Global Importance of Rice

Do you know? Rice is cultivated in 100+ countries. It is a central diet in Asia, Africa, and parts of Latin America. With increasing urbanization and global population levels, the demand for rice continues to grow. Rice-exporting countries help to meet this global demand and maintain the balance of the food supply chain across the nations. 

Whether it’s Basmati rice from India and Pakistan, Jasmine rice from Thailand, or long-grain white rice from Vietnam, each variety contributes uniquely to global cuisines and export-import flows.

India: The Reigning Champion

According to recent data, India contributed 40% of the global total rice export in 2024. This nation dominates the global rice export. India exported many variety of rice, including Basmati and non-Basmati grains like IR 64, IR 36,, and Sona Masoori. It exported 17 million tonnes.. 

India is an unstoppable player because of its enormous industrial capability, cost-effectiveness, and government support through subsidies.. India's government ensured its dominance by continuing to ship during key moments, even after temporarily prohibiting the export of certain rice to balance domestic prices.. 

Thailand: Bouncing Back Strong


Thailand exported approximately 10 million tonnes in 2024. It is known for its premium jasmine rice. Thailand's markets include the Philippines, China, and Africa. The country saw a surge in exports post-India’s export restrictions but faced a 30% dip in early 2025 due to resumed Indian exports and delayed purchases from importers.

Yet, Thailand continues to maintain a stronghold thanks to its reputation for high-quality rice and government-supported rice pledging schemes.

Vietnam: Agile and Strategic


The next one is Vietnam, which ranks third in global rice exports.. This nation focuses on value-added rice varieties. In 2024, Vietnam exported over 7 million tonnes, and the Philippines contributed 40% of this export volume. 

Vietnamese rice exporters (sellers) are known for their adaptability and quality upgrades. However, in 2025, they encountered challenges such as delayed payments and renegotiations from key importers because of falling prices,, a consequence of India lifting its export ban.

Pakistan: The Basmati Specialist


Pakistan's Basmati rice has an important place at the global level. It mainly demands a rise in the Middle East, the European Union, and North America.. Pakistan exported around 4.5 million tonnes in 2024. The country has been focusing on modernizing its milling infrastructure and improving export compliance to gain an edge.

Bilateral agreements with Gulf countries and trade fairs have helped boost the visibility of Pakistani rice.

USA: Non-Asian Market Leader


Though not a classic rice-exporting giant, the United States is still a key player with exports totaling more than 2.1 million tonnes, supplying Mexico, Haiti, and copyright. The U.S. deals mainly in medium and long-grain rice from Arkansas, California, and Louisiana.

With a very mechanized agriculture system and strict quality controls, the U.S. is still an ideal supplier in the Western Hemisphere.

Suggested Table: Top 5 Rice Exporting Countries in 2024



































Country Export Volume (in Million Tonnes) Major Markets
India 17 Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia
Thailand 10 China, Philippines, Africa
Vietnam 7 Philippines, China, Malaysia
Pakistan 4.5 UAE, Saudi Arabia, EU
USA 2.1 Mexico, copyright, Haiti

Future Trends and Market Outlook



  • Sustainability: Countries are focusing on water-efficient and climate-resilient rice varieties.

  • Digital Trade Platforms: B2B portals like Tradologie.com are revolutionizing the rice trade by connecting exporters directly with verified bulk buyers.

  • Value-added Products: Brown rice, parboiled, and organic variants are gaining popularity.


Final Thoughts


The rise in rice exports internationally is the result of shifting export-import dynamics, evolving consumer demands, and updated or smart policymaking. The rice export business is changing as India dominates the rice export market, followed by nations such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Pakistan. 

Whether you are an exporter, importer, or policy analyst, staying updated on these key players is very important. If you want to tap into this market, some B2B platforms are beneficial. I remember one of the best platforms, tradologie.com, which facilitates global trade and connects you globally with verified buyers. So, boost your rice business in 2025 and beyond. 

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