Thailand plans to increase rice exports to Hong Kong and China.
This year, Thai rice exports to Hong Kong and China are expected to rise, with a focus on rice berries and brown rice. This anticipation is driven by the global economic recovery and a preference for high-quality rice grains. Thailand is also looking to establish a distribution facility in Shenzhen to expand its market presence.
Hong Kong is expected to import approximately 180,000 tonnes of Thai rice, a major increase from 150,000 tonnes last year. The majority of imports are expected to be Thai jasmine rice.
Hong Kong is the third-largest export market for Thai jasmine rice, behind the United States and China. Hong Kong imported 257,200 tonnes of rice last year, with Thailand accounting for 57.7% (148,500 tonnes), Vietnam for 23.4% (60,100 tonnes), and China for 8.2% (21,200 tonnes).
Thailand's R&D policy is to increase rice quality and meet the unique needs of different consumer groups. The intention is to preserve a competitive advantage in the international rice market.
The Government has set an ambitious target of exporting 7.5 million tonnes of rice by 2024, anticipating considerable demand.