China and India dominate the world’s rice production, together accounting for over half of the global output. Other major rice-producing countries include Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. These nations, primarily located in Asia, play a crucial role in global food security, particularly in regions where rice is a staple food.

By Kriti Barua

I’m small and white, a staple delight,

In bowls or on plates, I’m served day and night.

I grow in the fields, where water does flow,

What am I? Can you guess? Take a moment to know!

Its rice! Rice is one of the world’s most important staple foods, nourishing billions of people across diverse cultures and cuisines. 

Originating in Asia over 10,000 years ago, it has become a fundamental part of diets globally, from the fragrant basmati of India to the sticky varieties enjoyed in Japan. 

Rich in carbohydrates, rice provides a vital source of energy and is often paired with a variety of ingredients, enhancing its versatility. 

Beyond its culinary significance, rice farming plays a crucial role in the economies of many countries, making it not just a food source but also a cultural and economic cornerstone. 

Here’s the list of the top 10 countries with the highest rice production rate in 2024. These countries collectively account for the majority of global rice production and exportation. List of the Largest Rice Exporting Countries in the World

According to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, there is a 1% increase in annual rice production worldwide, with Asia being the largest producer and exporter of rice. Between 2023 and 2024, rice production reached 521.52 million metric tonnes.

Here is a list of the top 10 countries that produce rice, with China leading the pack in exports, followed by Bangladesh and India.

Other key exporters include Pakistan, Japan, Indonesia, Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, all contributing to the global rice supply through their agricultural proficiency and trade networks.

Market	% of Global Production	Total Production (2023/2024, Metric Tons)
China	28%	144.62 Million
India	26%	137.83 Million
Bangladesh	7%	37 Million
Indonesia	6%	33.02 Million
Vietnam	5%	26.63 Million
Thailand	4%	20 Million
Philippines	2%	12.33 Million
Burma	2%	11.9 Million
Pakistan	2%	9.87 Million
Japan	1%	7.3 Million

Source: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

1) China: The Largest Rice Producer in the World

China ranks as the world’s top rice producer, responsible for around 28% of global rice production. In the 2023/2024 season, it is expected to produce 144.62 million metric tonnes. 

With rice being a staple food for over 1.4 billion citizens, China dedicates significant agricultural land to paddy fields, particularly in regions such as Jiangsu, Hunan, and Guangdong. 

The Yangtze River Basin also provides ideal growing conditions through abundant water resources and favourable weather. Government programmes, such as subsidies for farmers and research into high-yielding varieties, further strengthen production.

While China produces much of its rice for domestic consumption, it also engages in exports, primarily to Asian neighbours like South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines, along with some African markets. 

Efforts to modernise agriculture, coupled with large-scale irrigation systems, ensure China’s continuous production growth, helping meet both national needs and global demand.

2) India: The Largest Rice Exporter

India is the largest exporter of rice globally, shipping approximately 18 million metric tonnes in 24–25. 

The nation offers a variety of rice types, including premium Basmati and non-Basmati varieties, catering to diverse markets worldwide. Major export destinations include Bangladesh, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and African nations.

India’s success stems from its climatic diversity, which allows for multi-cropping seasons across regions like Punjab, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh.

Despite export restrictions in 2023 to stabilise domestic prices, India’s market leadership remained unchallenged. 

Government incentives, subsidies for inputs like fertilisers, and efficient irrigation facilities also support the sector. With more than 40% of global rice exports, India plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security across the globe.

3) Bangladesh: A Major Rice Producer

Bangladesh is a key player in global rice production, accounting for 7% of total global output with 37 million metric tonnes in 2023/24. Rice is a staple food for Bangladesh’s population, and cultivation thrives due to the fertile soil along the Ganges Delta. 

The country primarily grows traditional varieties, with a focus on meeting domestic demand rather than large-scale exports.

Government initiatives, such as subsidies for seeds and the promotion of high-yielding varieties, have boosted production significantly. 

Bangladesh also imports rice from India during times of domestic shortages, ensuring food security during floods or adverse weather. Although its exports are minimal, Bangladesh’s steady production plays a critical role in regional rice stability.

4) Indonesia: A Self-Reliant Rice Producer

Indonesia produces 33.02 million metric tonnes of rice annually, making up 6% of global production. 

The nation grows rice primarily in Java and Sumatra, where irrigation systems and tropical weather allow for multiple harvests each year. Rice is a cultural and economic staple, with consumption deeply embedded in daily diets.

Indonesia’s focus lies mainly on self-sufficiency rather than exports. However, the country occasionally exports small quantities to regional partners like Malaysia. 

Importantly, Indonesia imports rice from Thailand and Vietnam during shortfalls caused by droughts or floods, ensuring food stability. Government efforts to modernise the agriculture sector have also improved yields and strengthened domestic production.

5) Vietnam: A Top Rice Exporter

Vietnam is one of the world’s leading rice exporters, contributing 5% of global production with 26.63 million metric tonnes.

The Mekong Delta, known as the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” is the heart of rice cultivation due to its fertile soil and ample water supply. Vietnam exports primarily to China, the Philippines, and African countries, focusing on high-quality jasmine rice varieties.

Export growth is supported by government investments in technology and research to improve yields. 

Vietnam’s ability to meet global demand, despite challenges like climate change, solidifies its position in the global rice trade. As global consumption rises, Vietnam continues to expand its export markets.

6) Thailand: Renowned for Premium Rice

Thailand is known for its high-quality rice, particularly jasmine rice, which contributes 4% of global rice production with 20 million metric tonnes. It is among the top exporters, supplying China, the Middle East, and the United States. 

Thailand’s favourable weather and well-developed irrigation infrastructure play a key role in its rice production success.

Rice exports account for a significant portion of Thailand’s agricultural economy, with the government actively promoting sustainable practices to enhance quality and meet international standards. 

Thailand’s competitive pricing and consistent quality help it maintain its strong position in global markets.

7) Philippines: A Rice Importer and Regional Producer

The Philippines produces 12.33 million metric tonnes of rice, contributing around 2% of global output. 

Despite being a major producer, the country also imports rice to meet domestic needs, primarily from Vietnam and Thailand. 

Rice cultivation in the Philippines is spread across Luzon, Mindanao, and the Visayas, with government support focused on improving yields through technology adoption and farmer subsidies.

The government is working towards self-sufficiency by promoting hybrid rice varieties and modern farming techniques. However, challenges like typhoons and limited arable land constrain production growth.

8) Myanmar (Burma): A Key Contributor

Myanmar contributes 2% of global rice production, totalling 11.9 million metric tonnes. Rice is a staple crop, cultivated primarily in the Irrawaddy Delta. 

Myanmar exports rice to China, Bangladesh, and some African countries, playing a vital role in regional food security.

Although infrastructure challenges and political instability have affected its agricultural sector, government initiatives are underway to modernise farming and increase exports. 

Myanmar’s rice sector benefits from fertile land and traditional knowledge, positioning the country as an important supplier in the global rice market.

9) Pakistan: A Prominent Rice Exporter

Pakistan produces 9.87 million metric tonnes of rice, contributing 2% of the global total. Known for premium Basmati rice, Pakistan primarily exports to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. 

The country’s rice production thrives in regions like Punjab and Sindh, where irrigation from the Indus River supports cultivation.

Government incentives, along with investments in research and technology, bolster rice yields and exports. 

Despite occasional water shortages, Pakistan remains a competitive player in the global rice market, known for its aromatic and high-quality rice.

10) Japan: A Niche Rice Producer

Japan produces 7.3 million metric tonnes of rice, accounting for 1% of global production. While Japan’s rice cultivation is primarily for domestic consumption, the country exports small quantities of premium varieties, such as Koshihikari, to niche markets in Hong Kong and the United States.

Rice farming in Japan benefits from advanced technology, but it faces challenges from urbanisation and an ageing farming population. 

Government subsidies and policies promoting sustainable agriculture help maintain production levels, ensuring that rice remains an integral part of Japan’s food culture.

Conclusion

China and India are the largest producers and exporters of rice in the world due to various reasons, such as their large land area suitable for rice cultivation and long history of rice farming.

Both countries possess extensive fertile land suitable for rice cultivation, along with favourable climatic conditions and abundant water resources. Additionally, India and China cultivate a wide range of rice varieties, catering to diverse global tastes and preferences.

Both countries’ governments actively support the rice industry through subsidies, research, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, they both practice efficient farming methods, and lower labour costs contribute to competitive pricing.

India and China are major players in the global rice market, consistently producing high-quality rice to meet the demands of consumers worldwide. Their rich agricultural traditions and commitment to innovation ensure a steady supply of rice for domestic consumption and export.

https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/list-of-largest-rice-producing-countries-in-the-world-1730113246-1

Published Date: October 28, 2024