Global Rice Market Outlook – September 2025

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Global Rice Market Outlook September 2025 report summary highlighting key points such as record production forecasts, expanding trade volumes, price trends, weather risks, and strategic implications for stakeholders in the rice industry. Key

Market Snapshot: 

As of mid-2025, global rice production and exports are at record highs, while prices remain under pressure despite stabilization. Major shifts in supply dynamics continue to reshape the landscape. 

1. Record Production & Supplies

    •    Global Output: The 2025/26 rice crop is forecast at a record 541.6 million metric tons (milled basis), driven largely by India’s historic output of 151 million tons. 

    •    Stocks & Supply: Global supplies expected to reach 728.9 million tons, with ending stocks at a record 187.8 million tons—indicating robust buffers in the system. 

2. Trade Volumes: Expanding Exports

  • Rising Trade: The global rice trade for calendar year 2026 is projected to hit 61.7 million tons, above 2025 estimate of 59.7 million tons. 
  • India’s Dominance: India is on track to export 24 million tonnes, securing roughly 40% share of the global market—reaffirming its status as the top exporter.  

3. Price Trends & Market Sentiment

  • Price Sentiment: Prices have reached a floor, with limited upside expected through 2025, even as supply volumes surge.  
  •  Domestic Stability: India’s minimum support price (MSP) mechanism and firm rupee are helping stabilize export rates, preventing further global price drops. 

4. Weather & Supply Risk

  • Monsoon Outlook: India is forecasted to receive above-average monsoon rainfall in September, which supports crop development—but also raises concerns about potential damage to rice harvests if rains extend into the harvest season. 

5. Strategic Implications for B2B Stakeholders

For Importers and Bulk Buyers:

  • Urgency to Lock in Supply: With record production but tight pricing, locking in quantities ahead of potential weather disruptions could be prudent.
  • Leverage India’s Scale: India’s dominant export position offers opportunities for competitive pricing—but providers should monitor MSP policy shifts and currency fluctuations.

For Exporters & Traders:

  • Margin Management: As price compression continues, cost control and value-added services (e.g., branded packaging, verification, specialty grades) become differentiators.
  • Diversification: Exporters from other countries may face headwinds; exploring niche markets or specialty segments may be key.

6. Consumer-Side & Long-Term Perspective

  •  Future Price Risks: Despite short-term supply abundance, long-range forecasts suggest that global rice prices rise over the next decade due to slower production growth and declining stocks, especially if Vietnam reduces its export volumes. 
  • Market Growth Outlook: Global rice market valuation is projected to grow from roughly $37 billion in 2024 to $40 billion in 2025, with continued growth through 2029

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