10 Largest Rice-Producing Countries in the World (2024)

I am small and white and a chief joy,

I enjoy it in a bowl or on a plate, day or night.

I grew up in a field with water flowing through it,

What am I? Can you guess it? Take your time and find out!

It’s rice! Rice is one of the world’s most important staple foods, providing nutrition to billions of people across cultures and cuisines.

It originated in Asia more than 10,000 years ago and has become a fundamental part of diets around the world, from India’s aromatic basmati rice to the sticky variety favored in Japan.

Rice is rich in carbohydrates, an important source of energy, and is often paired with a variety of ingredients to enhance its versatility.

In addition to its culinary significance, rice cultivation plays a vital role in the economies of many countries, making it not only a food source but a cornerstone of culture and economy.

Below is a list of the top 10 countries with the highest rice production in 2024. Together, these countries account for the majority of global rice production and exports.

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1) China: The world’s largest rice producer

China is the world’s largest rice producer, accounting for approximately 28% of global rice production. The expected output in 2023/2024 is 144.62 million tons.

Since rice is a staple food for more than 1.4 billion people, China has devoted large amounts of agricultural land to paddy fields, especially in regions such as Jiangsu, Hunan and Guangdong.

The Yangtze River Basin also has abundant water resources and a good climate, providing ideal growing conditions. Government programs such as subsidies to farmers and research into high-yielding varieties further strengthened production.

While China produces most of its rice for domestic consumption, it also exports, mainly to Asian neighbors such as South Korea, Japan and the Philippines, as well as some African markets.

Efforts to modernize agriculture, coupled with large-scale irrigation systems, ensure that China’s production continues to grow, helping to meet national needs and global demand.

3) Bangladesh: major rice producer

Bangladesh is a major player in global rice production, with a production of 37 million tons in 2023/24, accounting for 7% of the global total. Rice is the staple food of the people of Bangladesh, and the soil along the Ganges Delta is fertile and the planting industry is booming.

The country mainly grows traditional varieties and focuses on meeting domestic demand rather than large-scale exports.

Government initiatives such as seed subsidies and promotion of high-yielding varieties have significantly increased yields.

Bangladesh also imports rice from India during periods of domestic shortage, ensuring food security during floods or severe weather. Although Bangladesh’s exports are small, its stable production plays a key role in regional rice stability.

4) Indonesia: a self-reliant rice producer

Indonesia produces 33.02 million tons of rice annually, accounting for 6% of global production.

The country grows rice mainly in Java and Sumatra, where irrigation systems and tropical climate allow for multiple harvests each year. Rice is a cultural and economic staple, and its consumption is deeply embedded in daily diets.

Indonesia’s focus is primarily on self-sufficiency rather than exports. However, the country occasionally exports small quantities to regional partners such as Malaysia.

Importantly, Indonesia imports rice from Thailand and Vietnam to ensure food stability during shortages caused by drought or floods. Government efforts to modernize agriculture have also increased yields and strengthened domestic production.

5) Vietnam: the largest rice exporter

Vietnam is one of the world’s major rice exporters, with a production of 26.63 million tons, accounting for 5% of global production.

The Mekong Delta has fertile soil and abundant water resources. It is known as the “rice bowl of Vietnam” and is the center of rice cultivation. Vietnam mainly exports to China, the Philippines and African countries, focusing on high-quality jasmine rice varieties.

Export growth is supported by government investment in technology and research to boost production.

Despite challenges such as climate change, Vietnam has been able to meet global demand, solidifying its position in the global rice trade. As global consumption grows, Vietnam continues to expand its export market.

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6) Thailand: Famous for high-quality rice

Thailand is famous for its high-quality rice, especially jasmine rice, with a production of 20 million tons, accounting for 4% of global rice production. It is one of the largest exporters, supplying China, the Middle East and the United States.

Thailand’s favorable climate and well-developed irrigation infrastructure play a key role in the success of its rice production.

Rice exports make up a significant part of Thailand’s agricultural economy, and the government actively promotes sustainable practices to improve quality and meet international standards.

Thailand’s competitive prices and consistent quality help it maintain a strong position in the global market.

7) Philippines: Rice Importer and Regional Producer

Philippine rice production is 12.33 million tons, accounting for approximately 2% of global production.

Although a major producer, the country also imports rice to meet domestic demand, mainly from Vietnam and Thailand.

Rice cultivation in the Philippines is spread across Luzon, Mindanao and Visayas, with government support focused on increasing yields through technology adoption and farmer subsidies.

The government is working towards self-sufficiency by promoting hybrid rice varieties and modern farming techniques. However, challenges such as typhoons and limited farmland have limited production growth.

8) Myanmar (Myanmar): Major Contributor

Myanmar’s rice production reached 11.9 million tons, accounting for 2% of global rice production. Rice is the main crop, grown mainly in the Ayeyarwady delta.

Myanmar exports rice to China, Bangladesh and some African countries, playing a vital role in regional food security.

Although infrastructure challenges and political instability have affected the agricultural sector, the government is taking initiatives to modernize agriculture and increase exports.

Myanmar’s rice industry benefits from fertile land and traditional knowledge, making the country an important supplier to the global rice market.

9) Pakistan: an important rice exporter

Pakistan’s rice production is 9.87 million tons, accounting for 2% of the global total. Pakistan is famous for its high-quality basmati rice, which is mainly exported to the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

The country’s rice production is booming in regions such as Punjab and Sindh, where cultivation is supported by irrigation from the Indus River.

Government incentives and investments in research and technology have boosted rice production and exports.

Despite occasional water shortages, Pakistan remains competitive in the global rice market and is known for its aromatic and high-quality rice.

10) Japan: a niche rice producer

Japan’s rice production is 7.3 million tons, accounting for 1% of global production. While Japan grows rice primarily for domestic consumption, the country also exports small quantities of premium varieties, such as Koshihikari, to niche markets in Hong Kong and the United States.

Japan’s rice cultivation benefits from advanced technology but also faces challenges from urbanization and an aging farming population.

Government subsidies and policies promoting sustainable agriculture help maintain production levels and ensure that rice remains an integral part of Japan’s food culture.

in conclusion

China and India have become the world’s largest rice producers and exporters due to various reasons such as their large land areas suitable for rice cultivation and their long history of rice cultivation.

Both countries have vast fertile land suitable for rice cultivation, good climatic conditions and abundant water resources. Additionally, India and China grow a variety of rice varieties to cater to varying tastes and preferences across the globe.

Both governments actively support the rice industry through subsidies, research and infrastructure development. In addition, they all use efficient farming methods and lower labor costs help improve price competitiveness.

India and China are major players in the global rice market and continue to produce high-quality rice to meet the needs of global consumers. Their rich agricultural traditions and commitment to innovation ensure a steady supply of rice for domestic consumption and export.

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