Rice Exports in Early 2025: Low Prices and Dwindling Orders Worry Businesses

Rice export prices have fallen to their lowest point in nine years, with 5% broken rice at 399 USD/ton and 25% broken rice at 371 USD/ton. The Vietnam Food Association (VFA) projects 2025 rice exports will only reach 7.5 million tons. In January 2025, Vietnam exported 500,000 tons of rice, earning 308 million USD, a 1% increase in volume but a 10.4% decrease in value compared to January 2024. The average export price in January 2025 was only 616 USD/ton, down from 627 USD/ton in 2024. Increased global supply, particularly from India easing its export restrictions, has contributed to the price drop. Major importers like the Philippines and Indonesia have reduced demand, anticipating further price decreases. While fragrant and high-quality rice maintain stable prices, the VFA considers the low prices for other varieties alarming. Vietnamese rice exporters are facing a sharp decline in new orders for February. The upcoming winter-spring harvest, expected to be plentiful, further contributes to buyer hesitancy.