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Vietnam’s Rice Export Soars to New Heights in 2023
In May 2023, Vietnam achieved a significant milestone in its agricultural sector by exporting over 7.1 million tons of rice, generating nearly 4 billion USD. This marked a 17% increase in volume and a remarkable 35% rise in value compared to the same period in 2022, establishing a new record high in rice export revenue. The surge in demand, particularly from countries like Indonesia, Philippines, and China, played a pivotal role in this achievement.
Looking ahead to the remaining months of 2023 and the early months of 2024, the global demand for rice remains high. Notably, the Philippines’ decision to remove price ceilings on rice imports is expected to boost Vietnamese exporters, as the Philippines stands as Vietnam’s largest rice customer. Projections suggest that Vietnam could export approximately 7.8 million tons of rice in 2023, with a revenue range of 4.2 to 4.5 billion USD.
However, the increasing volatility in rice prices poses a challenge to the industry’s stakeholders. Rapid price fluctuations have disrupted the entire supply chain, affecting farmers, traders, processing mills, and export businesses. The root cause lies in market speculation, broken contracts, and the difficulty faced by exporters in sourcing the agreed-upon quantities.
To address these challenges, the Vietnam Food Association (VFA) has urged its member businesses to honor existing export contracts diligently. This move aims to stabilize the market and negotiate extended delivery schedules, mitigating losses caused by price fluctuations. Additionally, VFA has recommended the Ministry of Industry and Trade to establish regulations defining minimum export prices for rice. This initiative not only ensures profitability for rice producers but also fosters healthy competition among exporters, including those operating under the provisions of Decree 109/2010/ND-CP and Decree 107/2018/ND-CP.
The rice export market in Vietnam continues to flourish, driven by robust demand from key importing nations. However, the industry faces challenges stemming from volatile prices and market uncertainties. By adhering to contractual agreements, adopting strategic pricing policies, and collaborating with regulatory bodies, stakeholders can navigate these challenges and maintain a stable, competitive market. As the rice export landscape evolves, staying informed and agile is crucial for sustained success in this dynamic sector.