Amid rising global concerns about food security, Vietnam has affirmed its position as one of the world’s leading rice exporters, playing a pivotal role in ensuring global food supply. With abundant rice production and stable quality, Vietnam has become a trusted source of essential food for millions worldwide, especially during crises and increasing climate change impacts. 

Outstanding Production and Export Capacity 

Vietnam enjoys favorable natural conditions, an advanced irrigation system, and decades of farming experience, enabling high-yield rice production. The Mekong Delta, the country’s primary rice-growing region, serves as the backbone of Vietnam’s rice export supply. 

According to the Global Food Security Index (GFSI), Vietnam improved its food security ranking from 65th (2015) to 46th (2022) out of over 100 countries, ranking 9th in the Asia-Pacific region. Vietnam is highly rated for food affordability, reflecting its ability to provide sufficient food at stable prices for both domestic and international markets. 

A 2025 study by Nature Food ranked Vietnam among the few countries with high food self-sufficiency, thanks to stable output in key sectors such as rice, aquaculture, vegetables, and meat. This resilience allows Vietnam to effectively respond to global disruptions such as trade shocks. 

With an annual production capacity of approximately 40 million tons of food, while domestic consumption is only around 13–15 million tons of rice, Vietnam maintains a substantial surplus for export. Although rice cultivation land has slightly decreased, improved yields have sustained high output. The government has also set a target to maintain stable rice cultivation areas of about 3.5 million hectares and an annual rice output of 35 million tons, ensuring both national food security and sustainable exports. 

Vietnam consistently ranks among the top 3 rice exporters globally, behind only India and Thailand. Vietnamese rice is now available in over 150 countries and territories, including key markets such as the Philippines, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and several African nations. 

In 2024, Vietnam achieved a record rice export volume of over 9 million tons, with a total export value of approximately USD 5.7 billion, showing growth in both volume and value compared to the previous year. 

Regional Food Security Contributor 

In the wake of global supply chain disruptions—especially after the COVID-19 pandemic—Vietnam’s role in stabilizing food supply chains has become increasingly vital. While some major rice-exporting nations imposed export restrictions to secure their domestic food supplies, Vietnam maintained its commitment to the global market, helping ease supply pressures and stabilize prices. 

As food prices surged due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict (2022) and rice export bans from certain countries, Vietnam continued stable exports, supplying around 7.5 million tons of rice to the global market in 2023. This significantly helped mitigate food shortages in regions such as Asia and Africa. 

Vietnam is also one of the most proactive countries in signing free trade agreements (FTAs), which have created favorable conditions for rice exports, expanded markets, and enhanced the global accessibility of Vietnamese rice. 

The country actively participates in forums such as the 2025 P4G Summit and strengthens agricultural cooperation with the EU, contributing to a high-quality and sustainable global food supply. Cooperation with the EU emphasizes sustainable agriculture, delivering mutual benefits for both sides and the international community. 

Vietnam is recognized as a reliable rice supplier by many international markets. The Philippines remains Vietnam’s largest importer, accounting for nearly half of its total rice exports in 2024. Indonesia and Malaysia are also diversifying their supply sources, yet Vietnam continues to be seen as the most dependable supplier—capturing up to 90% of Malaysia’s imported rice. 

Commitment to Sustainability and Rice Quality 

Vietnam not only prioritizes output but also focuses on improving rice quality and developing a sustainable rice industry. Research programs and technological applications—such as high-quality rice varieties, sustainable cultivation practices, and international certifications (VietGAP, GlobalGAP)—have enhanced the value and reputation of Vietnamese rice globally. 

The development of premium Vietnamese rice brands like ST25 (World’s Best Rice in 2019 and 2023) further showcases the country’s efforts in affirming the global position and value of its rice products. 

Many Vietnamese rice exporters, such as Lotus Rice, are committed to providing high-quality rice in various varieties (ST25, Jasmine, Japonica, etc.), meeting international food safety standards, and promoting sustainable agriculture, further elevating the prestige of Vietnamese rice on the global stage. 

 

Conclusion: 

In 2025, Vietnam continues to affirm its role as a trustworthy global rice supplier, making significant contributions to global food security. With stable production, diversified export markets, and policies focused on sustainable agricultural development, Vietnam not only meets domestic demand but also supports other countries in coping with food crises—reinforcing its importance in the global food system amid growing challenges. 

🤝 Partner with Lotus Rice – Your Trusted Source for Premium Vietnamese Rice 

With a proven track record across more than 55 countries, Lotus Rice proudly offers high-quality rice in a variety of types—ST25, Jasmine, Japonica, and more—fully certified with BRC, HACCP, ISO 22000, and FDA. We are dedicated to sustainable development and long-term value for our partners. 

Whether you are seeking a reliable rice supplier or international distribution opportunities, we are ready to grow with you. 

📩 Get in touch with Lotus Rice for tailored product consultation and export collaboration: 

  • 📧 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.