Thailand expects to export 8.2 million tonnes of rice this year, up from a previous forecast of 7.5 million, helped by demand from major markets, expected higher production and a weak baht, the Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.
The increased rice export projection, however, would still be 6.5% lower than last year’s total.
Rice exports from Thailand, the world’s second-largest shipper of the grain, were 5.08 million tonnes in the first half of 2024, up 25% from a year earlier, the ministry said in a statement.
Rice shipments have been supported by demand from main markets, including Indonesia and the Philippines, and a weak baht, the ministry said.
“Rice importers want to import rice for consumption and to keep them as stock for food security,” it said.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2838286/thailand-raises-2024-rice-export-forecast.