Indian rice export prices remained close to a 10-month high this week as higher domestic paddy costs and growing concerns over potential El Niño-related supply disruptions continued to support the market. Rice prices in Thailand also climbed to a one-month high.
India's 5% broken parboiled rice was quoted at $358–364 per tonne, unchanged from the previous week, while 5% broken white rice was offered at $357–363 per tonne.
Traders said concerns over tighter supplies linked to El Niño are encouraging buyers to continue purchasing despite higher prices. Indian rice exports increased by 5% during the first half of 2026, with stronger non-basmati shipments offsetting a decline in basmati exports following disruptions to Gulf-region trade linked to the Iran conflict.
Thailand Prices Rise
Thailand's 5% broken rice increased to $455–460 per tonne, compared with $450 per tonne a week earlier.
Market activity remained focused mainly on regular Asian buyers, including Singapore and Malaysia, who are purchasing according to immediate requirements. Indonesia, meanwhile, continues to have sufficient domestic production.
Traders noted that supplies from Thailand's central provinces are gradually entering the market, although expectations are that the country's rice exports could decline toward the end of the year.
Vietnam Market Remains Quiet
Vietnam's 5% broken rice was quoted at $430–450 per tonne, unchanged from the previous week. Trading activity remained subdued amid weak demand.
The Vietnam Food Association has proposed introducing minimum price levels for rice exports and fresh domestic paddy to protect farmers and exporters from price manipulation.
The association has proposed a $500-per-tonne FOB floor price for fragrant rice exports, along with a 7,000-dong-per-kg floor price for fresh unhusked paddy.
Flooding Keeps Bangladesh Prices Elevated
Rice prices in Bangladesh continued to remain high after two rounds of flooding damaged rice-producing areas and disrupted agricultural production.
In response to increasing climate-related risks, Bangladeshi agricultural authorities are working on the development of climate-resilient rice varieties designed to help farmers cope with changing weather patterns and extreme conditions.
Market Outlook
Asian rice markets are likely to remain sensitive to weather developments, domestic paddy prices, export demand, and new-crop availability. Persistent El Niño concerns could provide further support to prices, while increased harvest arrivals in major producing countries may limit gains if supply conditions improve.
© Copyright 2025 The SSResource Media.
All rights reserved.