1 Jul 2025
Vietnam exported an estimated 4.5 million tonnes (mt) of rice—equivalent to 4.5 billion kilograms—in the first five months of 2025, generating approximately US$2.34 billion, according to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
While export volumes rose by 12.2% year-on-year, overall export revenue declined by 8.9%, primarily due to a significant drop in global rice prices. The average export price fell to US$0.516 per kilogram, marking an 18.7% decline compared to the same period in 2024.
The Philippines remained Vietnam’s largest rice buyer, accounting for 41.4% of total rice exports. However, the value of rice exports to the Philippines dropped by 21.8% year-on-year. Meanwhile, Côte d’Ivoire emerged as the second-largest market with 11.9%, followed by China at 10.3%. Notably, shipments to Côte d’Ivoire surged 2.7 times, while exports to China rose by 83.7%.
Bangladesh recorded the most dramatic increase in value, rising 515-fold, whereas exports to Indonesia saw a sharp 97.9% decline.
Domestically, paddy prices remained stable in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a key rice-producing region. In provinces such as Vinh Long and Tien Giang, the IR 50404 variety continued to be traded actively. Jasmine rice maintained strong demand, while ST 25, a premium variety, remained one of the highest-valued rice types. In An Giang Province, fresh IR 50404 paddy continued to attract traders seeking to meet supply requirements, according to the local Department of Agriculture and Environment.
However, Vietnam faces potential shifts in its traditional export landscape, as the Philippines looks to diversify its rice sources. Despite this challenge, Vietnamese exporters are increasingly focusing on high-quality markets such as Japan and the European Union, where premium-grade rice can command higher prices and offer better margins.
Industry experts note that while export volumes remain robust, long-term growth will depend on Vietnam’s ability to enhance value through quality improvements and market diversification strategies.