Rice export growth slows as rising prices bite 📉🌾 www.asiaagrifood.com
Rice export growth slows as rising prices bite 📉🌾 www.asiaagrifood.com
Rice export volume growth has begun to lose momentum as rising prices weigh on global demand, traders and industry analysts say. After a period of strong shipments driven by steady overseas demand and competitive pricing, exporters are now facing resistance from key importing markets grappling with higher food costs and currency pressures. International rice prices have climbed in recent months due to tighter supplies, weather-related disruptions in major producing regions, and increased production costs. Higher freight rates and input expenses have further pushed up export prices, making rice less affordable for price-sensitive buyers in Asia and Africa. Several importing countries are responding by scaling back purchases, drawing down existing stocks, or seeking alternative suppliers. This has led to a moderation in export volumes, even as export values remain supported by elevated prices. Exporters note that while demand has not collapsed, buying patterns have become more cautious, with shorter contracts and delayed orders becoming more common. “The market is still active, but buyers are negotiating harder and spacing out purchases,” an exporter said. Analysts expect rice exports to remain under pressure in the near term if prices continue to rise. However, they add that any easing in prices or improvement in supply conditions could help stabilize volumes later in the year. For now, the global rice trade is entering a phase where price resilience is coming at the cost of slower growth in shipment volumes.
