Pakistan overtook Vietnam in monthly rice export volumes in September 2026, shipping 420,000 tonnes compared with Vietnam’s 337,000 tonnes, according to trade figures cited by Pakistan’s rice industry.
The performance strengthened Pakistan’s position in the global rice market despite rising freight charges, higher insurance costs and regional shipping disruptions.
Pakistani exporters also achieved higher average prices during the month. Pakistan’s rice exports averaged $621 per tonne, compared with $563 per tonne for Vietnamese rice.
Pakistan Secures Higher Rice Export Prices
The price difference reflects continued international demand for Pakistani rice, particularly aromatic Basmati varieties and non-Basmati rice.
These products compete with exports from major Asian suppliers, including Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam remains one of the world’s leading rice exporters and supplies important markets such as the Philippines.
Rice industry expert Hamid Malik said Pakistan had first surpassed Vietnam in monthly export volumes in December 2025, marking a shift in the competitive position of the two countries.
Gulf Conflict Adds Pressure on Rice Exporters
Pakistan’s latest performance comes after a challenging period for the global rice trade.
Adverse weather and market pressures affected exports from several major suppliers, including Pakistan, Vietnam and Thailand, during 2025. India, however, maintained its leading position in the global rice market.
In 2026, escalating conflict in the Gulf region added further pressure on exporters. Higher ocean freight charges, marine insurance premiums, inland transportation and processing costs increased operating expenses.
Shipping delays and payment disruptions also affected international trade.
Malik said these challenges contributed to a 20 to 30 per cent decline in exports of conventional non-aromatic rice varieties from major exporting countries, including Pakistan, Thailand and Vietnam.
Pakistan Rice Exports Rise 51% in First Quarter
Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s rice sector started the 2026-27 financial year with strong export growth.
Malik attributed the performance to several factors, including substantial carry-over stocks and an 18 to 20 per cent increase in the area under rice cultivation.
Improved access to urea fertiliser, agricultural credit and banking-sector support also helped strengthen the sector.
According to Malik, Pakistan’s total rice export volumes increased by 51 per cent during the first quarter, covering July to September 2026. Foreign exchange earnings from rice exports also rose by 37 per cent.
He said exporters achieved this growth despite continued disruptions to shipping routes in the Gulf and Black Sea regions.
Exporters Face Competition Without Government Price Guarantees
Pakistan’s rice export industry largely operates under free-market principles, unlike countries where governments provide minimum support prices, freight subsidies and state-backed marine insurance.
Private millers and exporters purchase paddy at prevailing market rates. The government does not guarantee a minimum purchase price.
The September figures highlight the strength of Pakistan’s rice exports. However, maintaining this momentum will depend on international demand, shipping conditions and the country’s ability to compete on price and quality in global markets.
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