Global Rice Trade Expected to Reach 61 Million Tonnes

25-Mar-2026 05:50 PM

New Delhi. Driven by robust production and strong demand from importing nations, global rice trade is projected to rise to 61 million tonnes during the 2026-27 marketing season—an increase over the revised estimate of 60 million tonnes for the 2025-26 season.

According to a report by the International Grains Council (IGC), global rice production is also estimated to jump from 544 million tonnes to 548 million tonnes during this same period.

While global rice consumption is expected to increase, surplus stocks are nevertheless projected to remain at elevated levels. In particular, rice stocks are set to witness a significant rise, largely driven by exceptional production in India.

According to the Council, global rice consumption is projected to stand at 537 million tonnes in the 2025-26 season, potentially rising to 545 million tonnes in the 2026-27 season. However, as this consumption figure remains lower than total production, the surplus stock of rice is expected to expand further.