The Department of Foreign Trade reported Thailand exported 3.28 million tonnes of rice in the first half of 2026, down 18.2% year-on-year, with the value declining 20.5% to US$1.91 billion.
The El Niño phenomenon is expected to help Thailand achieve its rice export goal of 7 million tonnes this year, according to a shipper.Chookiat Ophaswongse, honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, said if El Niño significantly affects weather patterns in the coming months, rice yields in major producing countries could decline, potentially increasing demand for Thai rice exports.
Yields could fall further as high fertiliser prices, driven by the conflict in the Middle East, reduce usage, he noted.
Although Thailand may also feel the effects of El Niño, the country maintains sufficient supply to meet both domestic and export needs. Moreover, export prices are likely to rise, said Mr Chookiat.
Thailand produces roughly 20 million tonnes of rice annually, with domestic consumption at around 11 million tonnes.
