Indian rice export prices rose to a more than one-year high this week as a stronger rupee and concerns over paddy availability pushed up rates in the domestic market.
India’s 5% broken parboiled rice was quoted at $384–389 per tonne, compared with $378–384 a week earlier. The price of 5% broken white rice stood at $385–390 per tonne.
A Mumbai-based exporter said domestic paddy prices remained firm because of limited supplies, with production declining in several states following below-normal rainfall.
The increase in Indian prices comes as rice exporters across Asia face changing supply conditions and demand prospects in key importing markets.
Vietnamese prices rise on demand outlook
Vietnamese 5% broken rice was quoted at $440–450 per tonne, its highest level since August 21, compared with $420–430 a week earlier.
Traders expect demand to strengthen as the Philippines is likely to resume rice purchases from Vietnam in November. A Vietnamese agriculture ministry official said export activity was expected to remain brisk for the rest of the year, with the country aiming to meet its target of exporting 8 million tonnes of rice.
Thai prices climb amid flooding delays
Thailand’s 5% broken rice prices increased to $480 per tonne from $465–468 a week earlier, reaching their highest level since September 10.
Higher purchasing activity by exporters and the arrival of vessels to collect shipments contributed to the increase. Flooding has delayed loading operations, while exporters have stepped up purchases as the off-season harvest approaches its end.
However, Thailand’s rice exports could fall short of the annual target of seven million tonnes amid competition from India and Pakistan and weaker demand from major buyers, according to the Thai Rice Exporters Association.
Bangladesh consumers face higher prices
In Bangladesh, rice prices rose over the past week amid higher fuel costs and increasing paddy prices. Retail prices of fine rice climbed to 74–75 taka per kg from 72 taka a week earlier, adding to the burden on consumers already facing elevated living costs.
The latest movements underline the contrasting pressures across Asia’s rice market, where currency fluctuations, weather-related disruptions, domestic crop availability and import demand are influencing export prices and consumer costs.