Asia rice: Indian rice export rates gain on Africa demand, firm rupee

Rice export quotations in India, Thailand and Vietnam rose this week, Business Recorder reported on Nov 12. Indian 5% broken parboiled rice was offered at $385-$390 per tonne, while the white variety was quoted at $390-$395; the parboiled range had been $382-$386 a week earlier. A stronger rupee, near a seven-month high, and modest African buying encouraged Indian exporters to increase offers to protect margins, an exporter said.

Thailand's 5% broken grade reached $495-$500 per tonne, compared with $490-$495 previously, although purchases remained concentrated among regular clients and the Philippines. Traders pointed to supply-tightening concerns and the Middle East conflict; Indonesian interest was also noted, with a clearer supply picture expected after the February 2027 crop. Vietnam's price edged up to $490-$495, helped by renewed Philippine buying, and the country is projected to rank as the world's second-largest rice exporter in 2026 and 2027. Bangladesh plans to purchase 850,000 tonnes from local farmers and millers, lowering rice procurement rates by 1 taka per kg while setting paddy at 35 taka per kg, raising concerns about compensation for growers' higher costs.