Commerce Ministry moves forward to open Thai rice market in South Africa, earning sales of over 7,157 million baht

As a result of this negotiation, the total purchase order for Thai rice increased to 400,000 tons, generating income for the country of more than 7,157.50 million baht or approximately 204.5 million US dollars.

The ordered rice will start to be delivered from March to June this year, which will help distribute around 1 million tons of paddy rice in the country.

South Africa still trusts Thai rice, quality and standards are still accepted.
The discussion also reflects South Africa’s confidence in the quality of Thai rice, which is expected to drive continued increases in Thai rice exports to South Africa in 2025 and help push Thailand to achieve its target of 7.5 million tonnes of total rice exports as planned.

In addition, there are also activities to promote and provide knowledge about Thai Hom Mali rice, Green Brand, along with demonstrations of how to check the quality standards to build confidence among consumers in the South African market.

Preparing to organize a major event “Thailand Rice Convention 2025” and expand the market in Asia
Ms. Arada Fuangthong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, stated that even though in 2024, Thai rice imports to South Africa will slow down due to global trade conditions, Thailand will still be the number one rice importer to South Africa.

To continue moving forward, the department is preparing to organize the Thailand Rice Convention (TRC 2025) from 25-27 May 2025 and plans to bring a delegation of Thai rice exporters to the Philippines, Japan and China during August-September to expand the market and create new partnerships.

Data source : Prachachat Business