Thai rice exports show signs of recovery after first-half drop

Thailand’s rice exports are showing signs of recovery as major importing nations accelerate purchases to build stockpiles against potential El Niño-induced droughts, according to Arada Fuangtong, director general of the Department of Foreign Trade (DFT).

During the first six calendar months of 2026, Thailand exported 3.28 million tonnes of rice, down 18.81% year-on-year. Export value dropped 20.51% to US$1.91 billion (approximately 60.38 billion baht). The decline was driven by intense global price competition from high world supply and trade disruptions in key markets, including Iraq, where shipments halted in March due to Middle East regional conflicts.

Despite high competition, climate concerns are changing buyer behavior.

Importing countries are increasing orders to strengthen domestic food security against El Niño weather risks, creating positive momentum for Thai exporters.

The potential of alternative markets to offset rice exports to Iraq was recognised both in Asia, such as by Malaysia and the Philippines, and in Africa, such as by South Africa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mozambique.

These nations have increased their rice imports from Thailand compared to the same period last year, indicating confidence in Thailand's capability as a key global source of high-quality rice production and export.

The export rise is also being bolstered by Thailand's ability to fulfill contracts and deliver shipments on schedule, alongside stable government rice export policies.

To sustain momentum and meet the national target of 7 million tonnes for 2026, the DFT is pursuing proactive trade policies. Officials are accelerating Government-to-Government (G2G) deal negotiations with China’s COFCO, while a joint public-private delegation are visiting key importers in the Philippines and Malaysia between August 2 and 6.

Thailand exported 8.3 million tonnes of rice in 2025.