Bangkok: “Pichai” anticipates the “Thailand Rice Convention 2025” will facilitate orders for 100,000 tons of Thai rice, expected to generate over 2 billion baht in revenue. The event aims to connect global buyers and importers to Thailand, reinforcing the country’s position in the US rice market despite a 10% tariff, with the dry-season rice price set at 1,000 baht per rai pending registrant verification.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, Minister of Commerce, inaugurated the 10th Thailand Rice Convention (TRC) 2025, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing the Thai rice industry under Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra. The government is rapidly advancing a policy of ‘Market-led, Innovation-enhanced, Increased Income’ by developing agricultural and food technology to boost the agricultural sector. The aim is to secure food supply, expand into new markets like Halal food, and promote the ‘Thai Kitchen to the World Kitchen’ policy to meet global food security demands. The TRC, organized by the Ministry of Commerce and the Department of Foreign Trade, provides a platform for exporters, importers, and Thai farmers to discuss and exchange insights under the theme ‘Global Rice from Thai Legacy’, reflecting the government’s strategy to position Thailand as a leader in quality rice exports.
Mr. Pichai highlighted the convention’s role in fostering networks and trade alliances between Thai rice exporters and global importers. Discussions with major rice importers are expected to result in orders exceeding 100,000 tons, contributing over 2 billion baht and helping Thailand meet its 2025 export target of 7.5 million tons. The Department of Foreign Trade is monitoring the global rice market amid geopolitical tensions to ensure Thailand’s preparedness as a global food source, supporting food security for trading partners in line with government policy.
Despite the influx of 63 million tons of Indian rice at $300 per ton, the price of Thai specialties like jasmine rice remains stable. The Ministry of Commerce is assisting farmers by reducing fertilizer costs and consulting with private sectors, including rice mills and exporters. In the US market, where Thailand exports 800,000-900,000 tons of jasmine rice, a 10% tariff is not expected to impact trade significantly. Coordination with the United States Trade Representative continues, with the US Treasury Secretary commending Thailand’s approach to negotiations, pending scheduling by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Pichai Chunhavajira.
Regarding measures for second-crop rice farmers in 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is reviewing registrant qualifications for a subsidy of 1,000 baht per rai, up to 10 rai. Results will be presented to the National Rice Policy and Administration Committee (NRAC) for approval.
Ms. Arada Fuangthong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, noted that TRC 2025 marks a return after a six-year hiatus due to COVID-19. The event draws over 500 participants from more than 30 countries, including government and private sector representatives, media, and Thai farmers. The convention highlights sustainable rice production and marketing, aligning with consumer preferences for health and environmentally friendly processes. The event’s design integrates quality standards, sustainability, and Thai rice’s cultural heritage under the theme ‘Global Rice from Thai Legacy’, showcasing Thailand’s leadership in ‘world-class quality rice’ and readiness to meet diverse global market demands.