Bangkok (VNA) – Thailand's Ministry of Commerce set a rice export target of 7.5 million tonnes for 2025, declining from an estimated 10 million tonnes this year.
Arada Fuangtong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, said for the first 11 months this year, rice exports rose by 14% year-on-year to 9.27 million tonnes. The volume is expected to reach 10 million tonnes with value of at least 6 billion USD for the whole year.
This growth is driven by sustained demand from importers to meet year-end consumption needs for Christmas, New Year and extending into the Lunar New Year. Thailand's rice production is sufficient to meet global market demand, and the country's strong export capacity ensures consistent delivery to importers.
Arada said the ministry set a lower shipment target next year because of India's resumption of white rice exports.
In addition, global rice production is expected to increase based on easing drought conditions and improved water availability for cultivation, which should intensify competition in the global rice market.
For next year, the Department of Foreign Trade plans to promote rice exports by strengthening relations and organising promotional activities for Thai rice in key trading partner countries./.
