Amid rising global demand for high-quality rice, Vietnam has regained its position as the world’s top rice exporter in terms of price. In April 2025, the export rice for Vietnamese 5% broken rice reached approximately USD 397/ton, surpassing Thailand (USD 395/ton), Pakistan (USD 387/ton), and India (USD 376/ton).  

This not only reflects Vietnam’s growing market value but also presents a strategic opportunity for global ice importers, as the market shifts towards high-value, premium-quality rice with a reliable supply chain.  

 

Superior Quality and Diverse Rice Varieties 

Vietnam has transformed its rice industry by prioritizing high-quality rice varieties. In 2025, 95% of the total rice cultivation area is planed with premium – grade rice, including:  

  • ST24 and ST25: Award –winning fragrant rice varieties, recognized as the “World’s Best Rice”, ideal for premium markets such as Japan, South Korea, and the EU.  
  • Japonica and Organic Rice: catering to health-conscious and died focused consumers in the U.S and Europe.  
  • Low-GI and Specialty Rice: Catering to health-conscious and diet-focused consumers in the U.S and Europe.  

Strict quality control process  ensure minimal chemical residue, meeting international standards such as Global GAP and organic certifications. This makes Vietnamese rice a trusted choice for importers prioritizing food safety and compliance.  

Competitive Pricing Despite Global Leadership 

 

Despite leading the world in export prices as of April 2025, Vietnamese rice remains competitively priced: 

  • Standard Rice: 5% broken rice reached USD 397/ton – higher than Thailand, Pakistan, and India, yet still cost-effective considering quality. 
  • Premium Rice: ST25 is priced at USD 1,200/ton, offering superior value over Thailand’s Hom Mali and India’s Basmati. 

Price Forecast – Second Half of 2025 

  • Standard Rice: Projected between USD 400–500/ton 
  • Premium Rice: Expected to remain between USD 800–1,200/ton 

This balance between high quality and reasonable pricing enables importers to maximize profits while meeting consumer expectations for premium rice. 

Reliable Supply and Global Market Responsiveness 

Vietnam plans to export 7.2 to 7.5 million tons of rice in 2025, with over 3 million tons projected for the second half of the year. 

Key supply strengths: 

  • Robust production: The Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s rice bowl, accounts for over 50% of production and is supported by modern irrigation and climate-adaptive farming techniques. 
  • Strategic trade policies: Under Decree 01/2025/NĐ-CP, the Vietnamese government facilitates export businesses through trade promotion programs, streamlined logistics, and competitive tariffs. 
  • Diverse market access: Major buyers include the Philippines (42.7% market share), China, Nepal, Ghana (demand: 2.5 million tons), and Côte d’Ivoire (1.8 million tons), along with expansion into high-value markets like Japan, South Korea, and the EU. 

For importers, this guarantees a stable supply chain and access to various rice types suitable for multiple market segments. 

Competitive Edge in the Global Market 

Despite intense competition from India, which rejoined the export market in September 2024 with a projected 21 million tons, Vietnam maintains strong advantages: 

  • Strong national rice brand: Swift adaptation to changing demands and focus on high-growth markets like Africa and the Middle East. 
  • Climate adaptability: Investment in salt-tolerant rice varieties ensures consistent output even under salinity intrusion in the Mekong Delta. 
  • International certifications: Vietnamese rice meets BRC, ISO, HACCP, Halal, and Kosher standards – appealing to diverse global markets. 
  • Importers can rely on Vietnam’s capacity to supply both quality and volume, even in a highly competitive environment. 

Strategic Opportunities for Importers in 2025 

Vietnamese rice presents clear advantages for international importers this year: 

  • High-demand markets: The Philippines (5 million tons expected), Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire represent key destinations for both standard and premium rice. 
  • Niche market growth: Demand for organic and Low-GI rice is rising in the EU, U.S., and Japan – where Vietnam’s specialty varieties excel. 
  • Favorable trade conditions: The Philippines has reduced rice import tariffs from 35% to 15%, and agreements like the EVFTA lower costs for EU importers. 
  • Sustainability focus: Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable agriculture aligns with green consumer trends in Europe and North America. 

Challenges to Consider 

While Vietnamese rice offers high value, importers should note a few risks: 

  • Price volatility: Global supply is expected to reach 56.3 million tons in 2025. Low-priced Indian rice may put downward pressure on prices, with standard rice possibly falling to USD 400/ton. 
  • Weather risks: Salinity intrusion and storms in the Mekong Delta could impact the Summer-Autumn crop in Q3/2025. 
  • Competitive pressure: Aggressive export strategies by India and Thailand call for importers to sign long-term contracts with Vietnamese suppliers to secure stable supply. 

How to Collaborate with Vietnamese Rice Suppliers 

To leverage Vietnam’s leading position in the rice export market, importers should follow these strategic steps: 

  • Choose certified suppliers: Connect with members of the Vietnam Food Association (VFA) or exporters certified by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. 
  • Specify rice types clearly: Clarify your needs (e.g., 5% broken rice, ST25, or organic rice) to ensure appropriate supply. 
  • Negotiate flexible contracts: Opt for terms like FOB, CIF, or DDP depending on your market. 
  • Utilize Vietnamese trade support: Access commercial insights, tariff incentives, and government-supported logistics initiatives. 

Lotus Rice – Your Strategic Partner 

With over 15 years of experience exporting to 55+ countries, Lotus Rice is a trusted Vietnamese supplier offering: 

  • A full range of rice: ST25, Jasmine, Japonica, Organic, Low-GI, and more 
  • Flexible packaging solutions 
  • Certified quality: BRC, ISO 22000, HACCP, FDA, Halal, Kosher 
  • International-standard storage and logistics systems 
  • Sustainable sourcing and traceability 
  • Compliance with regulations in the EU, USA, and UAE 

Take the lead in 2025 – Partner With Lotus Rice Today!  

  • 📧 WhatsApp: (+84 77) 6996 768 
  • 📞 Hotline:(+84 28) 3622 2236 

Head office: No. 52, Street 10, Him Lam Residence, Tan Hung Ward, District 7, HCMC 

Join Lotus Rice—where you don’t just access top-quality rice, but also contribute to placing Vietnam on the global food map. 

 

References:  

(VFA) Vietnam Food Association  

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) 

VNExpress International  

Vietnam Economic Times 

Ap Bac News