Rice Market Research Report 2024

Rice Market Segment Analysis:

The Global Rice Market is Segmented into Products, Distribution Channels, and Regions.

By Product, the Medium-grain segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

• Medium-grain rice is increasingly dominating the global rice market due to its versatile characteristics and widespread adaptability. Unlike short-grain rice, which is typically used in sushi and other specific dishes, medium-grain rice has a balance between the fluffy texture of long-grain varieties and the stickiness of short-grain types. This makes it suitable for a wide range of culinary applications, from salads and stir-fries to pilafs and casseroles.
• Another factor driving the popularity of medium-grain rice is its favorable cooking properties. It cooks to a tender, yet slightly firm texture, which appeals to both chefs and home cooks alike. This versatility makes it a preferred choice in many cuisines, including Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American dishes, where a consistent texture is valued.
• Additionally, medium-grain rice often enjoys higher yields and better adaptability to varying soil and climate conditions compared to other rice varieties. This agricultural advantage helps ensure a stable supply and contributes to its growing market share. Farmers and producers favor medium-grain rice for its resilience and productivity, which supports its dominance in the market.
• Finally, consumer preference for medium-grain rice is bolstered by its nutritional profile and affordability. It provides a good balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals while often being more cost-effective compared to specialty rice varieties. As a result, it is increasingly chosen for both everyday meals and commercial food production, reinforcing its dominant position in the rice market.

By Distribution Channel, the offline segment held the largest share in 2023.

• The offline distribution channel, which includes traditional retail outlets such as local grocery stores, supermarkets, and wholesale markets, continues to dominate the rice market. This dominance is largely due to established supply chains and the widespread presence of physical stores that facilitate easy access to rice for consumers. In many regions, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, these traditional outlets remain the primary source of rice due to their convenience and longstanding customer relationships.
• Additionally, offline channels often provide the benefit of immediate availability and direct interaction with sellers, which can be particularly important in regions where online infrastructure is less developed. Consumers in these areas may prefer to see and inspect the quality of rice before purchase, something that physical stores readily offer. Moreover, the personal touch and trust established through face-to-face interactions with local vendors contribute to the continued reliance on offline channels.
• In many developing countries, offline distribution channels also benefit from lower overhead costs compared to online platforms, which might involve expenses related to e-commerce infrastructure, digital payment systems, and delivery logistics. Traditional stores, especially those in rural areas, often operate with simpler cost structures and pass on these savings to consumers, making rice more affordable and accessible.
• The offline market's dominance is supported by the established logistics networks and relationships between rice producers, wholesalers, and retailers. These networks have been refined over decades and ensure a steady supply of rice to various market segments. As a result, offline channels continue to play a crucial role in meeting the daily consumption needs of consumers while also accommodating the regional preferences and purchasing habits that favor traditional retail experiences.

Rice Market Regional Insights:

Asia Pacific is Expected to Dominate the Market Over the Forecast Period

• Asia dominates the global rice market, holding the largest share in both production and consumption. This region benefits from favorable climatic conditions, extensive agricultural practices, and a high demand for rice as a staple food. Countries like China and India are the leading producers, contributing significantly to the global supply.
• China, as the world’s largest rice producer, leverages its vast arable land and advanced farming techniques to maintain its dominant position. The country’s rice cultivation is supported by extensive irrigation infrastructure and government policies that promote agricultural productivity. Consequently, China not only satisfies its domestic needs but also exports a substantial amount of rice.
• India follows closely behind as a major player in the global rice market. The country’s diverse climatic zones and extensive cultivation areas support a variety of rice types, including Basmati and non-Basmati varieties. India’s rice production is driven by both large-scale commercial farming and smallholder agriculture, which collectively cater to the vast domestic market and export demands.
• Southeast Asia also plays a crucial role, with countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Myanmar contributing significantly to global rice exports. Thailand is renowned for its high-quality jasmine rice, while Vietnam’s strategic production and export policies have made it one of the top exporters globally. The region’s rice farming practices are supported by favorable weather conditions and a robust trade infrastructure, reinforcing its position in the global market.

Rice Market Top Key Players:

• Archer Daniels Midland Company (USA)
• Cargill, Incorporated (USA)
• Olam International (Singapore)
• Louis Dreyfus Company (Netherlands)
• RISE (USA)
• Tropicana (USA)
• Wilmar International (Singapore)
• Suntory Holdings (Japan)
• Nippon Flour Mills (Japan)
• Sona Food Products Ltd (India)
• Amira Nature Foods (UAE)
• Thai Hua (Thailand)
• Siam Kubota (Thailand)
• Hubei Xinzhong (China)
• China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Corporation (COFCO) (China)
• Ebro Foods (Spain)
• Kellogg Company (USA)
• ConAgra Brands (USA)
• General Mills (USA)
• Ricegrowers Limited (SunRice) (Australia)
• Paddyfield International (India)
• Dole Food Company (USA)
• Parmalat (Italy)
• Great Wall (China)
• Vinafood II (Vietnam) and Other Active Players

Key Industry Development:

• In August 2023, Bayer, a global leader in agriculture and healthcare, collaborated with GenZero, an investment platform owned by Temasek focused on global decarbonization, and Shell Energy India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Shell Plc, to reduce methane emissions in rice cultivation. Together with other experts, the companies developed a scalable model aimed at cutting emissions. This approach included providing training, support, and guidance to smallholder farmers, utilizing Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) mechanisms with remote sensing technology. The project set a benchmark for similar initiatives in the rice decarbonization space, aiming to make a significant impact in methane reduction.
• In June 2023, NET Power, LLC, an energy company specializing in clean and reliable energy through proprietary technology, completed its merger with Rice Acquisition Corp. II (NYSE: RONI), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company. The business combination, previously announced, resulted in the formation of NET Power Inc. Following the merger, NET Power began trading its Class A common stock and warrants under the ticker symbols "NPWR" and "NPWR WS," respectively, on the New York Stock Exchange as of June 9, 2023. This merger aimed to accelerate NET Power's mission of providing clean, affordable natural gas power generation.

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