Rice Trade Analysis Market Size
Rice Trade Analysis Market Analysis
The Rice Trade Analysis Market size is estimated at USD 313.12 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 349.11 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
- Rice, a staple cereal grain, is the primary food source for a significant portion of the global population, particularly in Asia. It ranks as the third most produced agricultural commodity globally, trailing only sugarcane and maize. Over half of the world's population relies on rice as a staple, with the highest consumption seen in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and South America.
- The Asia-Pacific region stands out as one of the dominant markets for rice, driven by its high production levels in the countries of the region. For instance, as per FAOSTAT, rice production in Thailand was 32,977,775 metric tons in 2021 which increased and reached 34,317,028 metric tons in 2022. From Pakistan in the west to Japan in the east, the Asian region not only grows but also consumes the majority of the world's rice. Globally, rice ranks as the second-most crucial cereal crop, following wheat, and plays a pivotal role in ensuring food security for many developing nations in East and Southeast Asia.
- Basmati rice, renowned globally, boasts slender grains, a distinctive aroma, and a unique taste that elongates when cooked. India commands a dominant position in the aromatic rice market, holding an impressive 80% share, as per the government of India. Meanwhile, the United States predominantly imports aromatic Asian varieties, notably basmati and jasmine rice. Long-grain indica rice and aromatic types like basmati and jasmine make up a significant portion of rice imports, especially favored in Northern Europe. The United Kingdom stands out as one of the leading basmati rice importers, sourcing primarily from India.
- Further, market growth is fueled by globalization, the expanding food and food service industry, rising migration, and the growing popularity of rice dishes. In recent years, the rice market has seen substantial growth, largely driven by surging demand in emerging and developing nations worldwide.
Rice Trade Analysis Market Trends
Growing Preference for Specialty Rice Varieties
Globally, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards specialty rice, driven by heightened health and wellness concerns. Specialty rice varieties, in contrast to regular milled white rice, boast higher vitamin and mineral content, promote better health, and serve as excellent fiber sources. This nutritional edge has spurred a surge in consumer demand.
Affluent consumers are even ready to pay a premium, underscoring their commitment to health. Furthermore, as the appetite for prepared foods rises, processed products, especially packaged rice mixes, are poised for the most robust growth.
Basmati rice stands out as one of the world's finest rice varieties, celebrated for its slender grains, distinctive aroma, unique taste, and elongation quality when cooked. India plays a pivotal role in the global basmati export market, holding a substantial share in exporting this premium variety. The United States predominantly imports Asian aromatic rice, including basmati and jasmine. Recently, key importers of basmati rice have included Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates.
As per the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority of India, India stands as one of the top global exporter of Basmati Rice. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, India exported 5,242,048.4 metric tons of Basmati Rice, fetching a value of Rs. 48,389.2 Crores (USD 5,837.1 million). Key destinations for these exports included Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Yemen.
Europe is witnessing a meteoric rise in the demand for specialty and exotic rice varieties, notably basmati and jasmine. Long-grain indica rice and aromatic varieties, particularly basmati and jasmine, dominate imports, especially in Northern Europe. The United Kingdom leads in importing basmati rice, predominantly sourced from India. Given these trends, the demand for specialty and exotic rice varieties is set to surge in the coming years.
India Dominates the Market in Exports
India stands as the world's largest rice exporter, a position bolstered by its robust production capabilities, a wide array of rice varieties, competitive pricing, and strong international demand. As a top global rice producer, India's extensive agricultural landscape and favorable climate, especially in states like West Bengal, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh yield a significant exportable surplus. Supported by extensive irrigation systems, Indian farmers achieve high rice yields across vast areas.
India produces both basmati and non-basmati rice varieties. Basmati, prized for its unique aroma and long grains, has a strong market in the Middle East and Europe. In contrast, the more affordable non-basmati rice, available in bulk, sees widespread exports to African and Southeast Asian countries. This variety enables India to serve a diverse global clientele. Pricing is a significant advantage for India in the rice export arena. Indian rice often undercuts prices set by other major exporting nations. This price edge positions India as a primary supplier to markets in Asia and Africa, where price sensitivity is paramount.
Exporting to over 100 countries, India sees robust demand from the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Key importers, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and various African nations, depend on Indian rice for their staple food requirements. Such extensive trade relationships has increased India's rice export. For instance, as per ITC trade map, India exported rice valued USD 27.20 billion in 2021 which increased and reached USD 29.99 billion in 2022.
Government policies in India bolster its rice export success, promoting agricultural growth and exports. Through various schemes, farmers receive subsidies and incentives, maintaining high rice production levels. During surplus periods, the government actively promotes exports to meet global demand.
India's leadership in the global rice export arena is attributed to its vast production, diverse rice offerings, competitive pricing, and proactive government policies. Despite occasional export restrictions to address domestic issues, India's dominance in the global rice trade remains unchallenged, playing a pivotal role in global food security.
Rice Trade Analysis Market News
- September 2024: Agri research institute in Karaikal, India, released KKL(R) 4, a new flood-tolerant rice variety developed by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute.
- September 2024: Researchers at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines have developed a novel rice variety aimed at alleviating the rising challenge of diabetes.
Rice Trade Analysis Industry Segmentation
Rice, derived from the annual southeast Asian cereal grass (Oryza sativa), is a starchy seed commonly cooked and consumed as food. For the study, only rice grains have been considered. The Global Rice Trade Analysis report is segmented by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Africa). The report offers the Import Analysis (Value and Volume) and Export Analysis (Value and Volume) of rice based on the abovementioned segments. The report provides market estimation and forecasts in value (USD) and volume (metric tons) for the abovementioned segments.
| Geography (Import Analysis by Value and Volume, Export Analysis by Value and Volume) | North America | United States | |
| Canada | |||
| Europe | France | ||
| United Kingdom | |||
| Germany | |||
| Italy | |||
| Spain | |||
| Asia-Pacific | China | ||
| India | |||
| Thailand | |||
| Vietnam | |||
| Pakistan | |||
| South America | Brazil | ||
| Argentina | |||
| Africa | South Africa | ||
| North America | United States |
| Canada | |
| Europe | France |
| United Kingdom | |
| Germany | |
| Italy | |
| Spain | |
| Asia-Pacific | China |
| India | |
| Thailand | |
| Vietnam | |
| Pakistan | |
| South America | Brazil |
| Argentina | |
| Africa | South Africa |
Rice Trade Analysis Market Research FAQs
How big is the Rice Trade Analysis Market?
The Rice Trade Analysis Market size is expected to reach USD 313.12 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 2.20% to reach USD 349.11 billion by 2030.
What is the current Rice Trade Analysis Market size?
In 2025, the Rice Trade Analysis Market size is expected to reach USD 313.12 billion.
What years does this Rice Trade Analysis Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Rice Trade Analysis Market size was estimated at USD 306.23 billion. The report covers the Rice Trade Analysis Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Rice Trade Analysis Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Rice Trade Analysis Industry Report
Statistics for the 2025 Rice Trade Analysis market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. Rice Trade Analysis analysis includes a market forecast outlook for 2025 to 2030 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.
