Vietnam’s rice exports next year will reach 6.5-7 million tonnes, equivalent to its export value in 2013 due to many difficulties in sales, forecasts the Vietnam Food Association (VFA).

According to the VFA, the export situation in 2014 will continue to be difficult because of excess supply and competition.

Although a decline in demand, Southeast Asia will remain Vietnam’s traditional market. China is the largest importer of Vietnam.

The VFA forecast that the quantity of rice exported in 2013 fall by 1.12 million tonnes compared to last year, equivalent to 14.5 percent. By November 30, rice exports reached 6.143 million tonnes.-VNA