In the first two months of 2026, Vietnam saw a 5% increase in rice exports from the previous year, amounting to about 1.3 million tonnes. Despite the increase in quantity, the total value of these shipments experienced a year-on-year decrease of 11.2%, bringing the total value to $599.3 million. This data was reported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

Average Export Price

The average export price for the period was measured at an estimated $464.1 per tonne, which represents a 15.4% decrease from the previous year.

Major Markets

The primary market for Vietnam’s rice exports was the Philippines, which accounted for almost half of the total exports (47.6%). China and Ghana were the subsequent importers, contributing 18.3% and 8.9% respectively to the total rice exports.

In the first two months, exports to the Philippines grew by 17.6% and shipments to China witnessed a surge of 5.8 times. However, exports to Ghana declined by 31%.

Export Growth and Decline

Out of the 15 largest export markets, the most substantial export growth was recorded in China, where shipments increased by 5.8 times. On the other hand, exports to Côte d’Ivoire experienced the most significant drop, with a decrease of 90.9%.

Current Rice Prices and Trading Activity

Vietnam’s 5% broken rice is reportedly priced at up to $365 per tonne, which is consistent with the price last week. Trading activity has seen a slowdown as buyers anticipate a further decline in prices. Concurrently, domestic supply has been increasing due to the peak harvest of the winter-spring crop.

Southern Ports and Global Factors

Preliminary data indicates that southern ports managed over 382,000 tonnes of rice in February, with the majority being shipped to the Philippines and African markets.

Although the conflict in the Middle East has not directly impacted Vietnam’s rice shipments to Africa, traders have reported a surge in freight costs due to elevated insurance premiums and fuel prices.

Questions & Answers

What was the percentage increase in Vietnam’s rice exports in the first two months of 2026?
There was a 5% increase in rice exports from Vietnam in the first two months of 2026.

Which country remained the top market for Vietnam’s rice exports?
The Philippines remained the top market for Vietnam’s rice exports, accounting for 47.6% of total exports.

How has the conflict in the Middle East affected Vietnam’s rice exports?
While the conflict in the Middle East has not directly influenced Vietnam’s rice shipments to Africa, it has led to a surge in freight costs because of higher insurance premiums and fuel prices.

Published Date: March 11, 2026