Pakistan overtakes Vietnam in monthly rice exports, ships 420,000 tonnes in September

LAHORE: Pakistan outperformed Vietnam in monthly rice exports in September 2026, shipping approximately 420,000 tonnes compared with Vietnam’s 337,000 tonnes, despite disruptions to international shipping routes and rising tensions in the Gulf region.

The performance marks a significant development for Pakistan’s rice export sector, as Vietnam has traditionally been among the world’s three largest rice-exporting countries. However, Pakistan’s higher September shipments do not yet mean it has overtaken Vietnam in annual global export rankings.

As per reports, Pakistan exported around 420,000 tonnes of rice in September, while Vietnam’s shipments stood at 337,000 tonnes. Pakistani exporters also received an average price of $621 per tonne, compared with $563 per tonne for Vietnamese rice.

Rice Exports Rise During First Quarter
Pakistan’s rice export sector also recorded strong growth during the first quarter of the current fiscal year, covering July to September 2026.

Reports indicate that the country exported approximately 1.074 million tonnes of rice worth $652.4 million during the period, compared with 713,794 tonnes valued at $418.5 million in the corresponding period last year.

The figures indicate an increase of around 51 per cent in export volume and 56 per cent in export earnings.

Details July–September 2025 July–September 2026 Change
Export volume 713,794 tonnes 1.074 million tonnes +51%
Export earnings $418.5 million $652.4 million +56%
Pakistani Basmati Maintains International Demand
The increase came despite higher ocean freight charges, rising marine insurance premiums and logistical challenges caused by disruptions in regional shipping routes.

Rice industry experts say international demand for Pakistani aromatic Basmati remained firm despite the challenges. Pakistan also benefited from substantial carry-over stocks and an estimated 18 to 20 per cent expansion in the area under rice cultivation.

Improved fertiliser availability, access to agricultural credit, and support from the banking sector also contributed to the sector’s performance.

Pakistan and Vietnam Rice Exports – September 2026
Country Rice exports
Pakistan 420,000 tonnes
Vietnam 337,000 tonnes
Pakistan’s lead 83,000 tonnes
The September export figures highlight Pakistan’s growing presence in the international rice market. However, sustaining this momentum will depend on global demand, shipping conditions, production levels and the competitiveness of Pakistani rice in major export markets.