Vietnam exported around 1.74 million tons of rice as of March 15, earning $826.2 million, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The figures were released at a conference held in the Mekong Delta’s Can Tho city on March 24, where officials and businesses discussed measures to boost rice production and exports amid global market volatility.

The figure represents a year-on-year increase of 2.3% in volume but an 8.7% decline in value. The average export price stood at $477.6 per ton, down 10.7% compared to the same period last year.

The Philippines remained Vietnam’s largest rice importer, followed by China and Ghana.

At the conference, participants highlighted the need to ease difficulties facing farmers and exporters, proposing solutions such as reducing logistics costs, improving access to credit, and implementing temporary purchasing schemes when prices fall. These measures aim to protect producers, enhance competitiveness, and diversify export markets.

Responding to business concerns, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang stressed the importance of closely monitoring market developments and flexibly managing rice exports. She also called for a review of the Rice Export Strategy to 2030 and stronger coordination with local authorities in its implementation.

Businesses were urged to proactively plan and improve production efficiency, while Vietnamese trade offices abroad were encouraged to provide timely market information, updates on import policies, risk warnings, and support for trade connections.