News Capsule: Global Rice Market: India Steady, Vietnam & Thailand See Mild Gains

03-Apr-2026 11:10 AM

News Capsule: Global Rice Market: India Steady, Vietnam & Thailand See Mild Gains
★ India’s rice export prices remained stable this week, with 5% broken parboiled rice quoted at $341–348 per ton, while 5% broken white rice held at $336–341 per ton. Exporters reported weak demand, particularly from African buyers, due to elevated freight costs and currency volatility.
★ In contrast, Vietnam saw a rise in prices driven by tightening supplies and higher production costs. Its 5% broken rice climbed to $375 per ton, up from $350–355 last week. Traders noted that the winter-spring harvest is nearing completion, leading to reduced availability in the market.
★ Thailand also recorded a slight uptick in prices, with 5% broken rice quoted at $370–375 per ton, compared to $365 in the previous week. However, demand remains limited, with sporadic buying interest mainly from Europe and parts of Asia.
★ Ongoing tensions in the Middle East have pushed up fuel prices, increasing costs related to harvesting, transportation, and processing. This has had a direct impact on global rice pricing.
★ Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, rice prices remain elevated despite a strong harvest and adequate stock levels, continuing to put pressure on consumers already dealing with inflation.
★ The global rice market is currently balancing between cost-driven pressures and subdued demand. Future price trends will largely depend on freight rates, geopolitical developments, and the pace of new crop arrivals.