Vietnam rice exports see surge in China demand amid shifting Philippine imports

Vietnam's rice export sector is experiencing shifting market dynamics. From the beginning of 2026 to August 15, Vietnam exported approximately 5.7 million tons of rice, earning $2.73 billion. While overall export volume and turnover have seen declines compared to 2025, specific markets are showing significant growth. China has emerged as a major buyer, with exports to the country increasing by 96.8% in volume and 92.2% in value during the first seven months of 2026. Other growing markets include Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq.

Conversely, demand from the Philippines has weakened, which is attributed to changes in import policies. In July 2026, the Philippines Department of Agriculture ceased licensing 5% broken rice imports, favoring 25% broken rice or higher instead. Despite this, the Philippines remains Vietnam's largest rice market for the first seven months of the year.

Domestically, rice and paddy prices in the Mekong Delta have shown slight fluctuations. Recent reports from An Giang province indicate minor decreases in the prices of several export-grade raw rice varieties, such as IR 504 and CL 555, while retail prices remain relatively stable. Trading activity in various provinces has been noted as slow or cautious.