• Flood-related crop damage in Thailand lifts export offers
• Vietnamese prices rise as exporters shift focus to West Africa

Thai rice export prices surged to their highest level in nearly four months on 27 November as flooding in key growing regions tightened near-term supply and supported market sentiment. Exporters quoted 5% broken rice at around $370/tonne (t) on 27 November, up $30/t w-o-w and the strongest since 31 July. Traders cited news of fresh sales to China and a firmer baht as additional drivers behind the rally.

Market participants noted that although export demand remains muted, millers have slowed selling, while exporters with pending delivery commitments continue to cover their positions. “The situation is positive for farmers, while crop damage occurred in some areas due to flooding,” a Bangkok-based trader said.

Indian prices hold steady as surplus limits gains

India’s 5% broken white rice was assessed unchanged at $345-350/t w-o-w, with ample domestic inventories keeping prices flat despite subdued export demand. The market remains highly competitive, and a weaker rupee near a record low has allowed exporters to maintain aggressive pricing in global tenders while still capturing value through currency gains. A Mumbai-based exporter said the depressed rupee “is letting Indian exporters reduce their prices,” even as overall demand remains sluggish.

Vietnamese prices edge higher as exporters shift focus

Vietnam’s 5% broken rice rose to $359-363/t on 27 November, up from $350-355/t on 20 November, according to the Vietnam Food Association. The uptick follows a slide to a more than five-year low on 20 November, suggesting a modest recovery in export sentiment.

Traders in Ho Chi Minh City stated that, given demand from traditional Asian buyers is still tepid, some exporters have begun redirecting shipments towards West African markets such as Ghana and the Ivory Coast. Others cautioned that if exports to the Philippines continue to stagnate, some farmers may opt to switch to alternative rice varieties in the next planting cycle.

Outlook

Overall market dynamics across Asia remain split. Thailand is entering a short-term bullish phase due to weather-induced supply disruptions, while India’s surplus-driven stability continues to cap upside in global markets. Vietnam shows early signs of price recovery, though the sustainability of its rebound depends on a revival in demand from core markets.

Published Date: December 4, 2025