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Worldwide Rice Imports by Country (Top 136)

Worldwide Rice Imports by Country (Top 136)

Economics & FinanceMay 17, 2026

Nearly half the world—about four billion people—relies on rice. In 2024, global rice imports rose from US$27 billion in 2020 to US$38.3 billion, highlighting the challenge of sustaining rice as a staple. El Niño disrupted Southeast Asia’s harvests, raising demand for imports. Further climate impacts and India’s export restrictions tightened supply. In 2024, climate, tariff reforms, population growth, and changing preferences drove record imports. The infographic ranks 137 countries by import value, from Indonesia’s $2.71 billion to Montserrat’s $170,870. This analysis examines the top 18 importers, their drivers, and the global impact.

1. Indonesia — $2,710,255,300: The World’s Largest Rice Importer in 2024

Indonesia faced a rice import crisis in 2024. Key drivers included El Niño-induced drought and water shortages, high demand from nearly 280 million people, and government actions to secure supplies. Indonesia spent $2.71 billion on imports—7.1% of the global total. Per capita consumption was 124 kg per year, and extraordinary imports were needed under these conditions.

El Niño was the main catalyst for Indonesia’s surge in rice imports. It created a national deficit of about 2.3 million tons. Widespread climate disruption, reduced yields, population pressure, and rising demand further strained supplies. The government faced an urgent need for intervention. President Joko Widodo authorized imports from Vietnam and Thailand. In February, rice prices hit a historic high of IDR 18,000 per kilogram.

This caused hardship for lower-income families and long queues for subsidized rice from BULOG. By March, monthly imports jumped 921.51% year over year to 567,220 metric tons. The value reached $371.6 million. BULOG targeted up to 3.6 million tons in imports by year-end to stabilize prices. Main suppliers included Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Pakistan, and India. By 2025, production rose to 34.7 million tons, surpassing the 31.1 million tons consumed. Indonesia then ceased imports, and BULOG shifted to domestic absorption. The 2024 import surge marked a pivotal turning point.

Key facts about Indonesia’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $2,710,255,300 (7.1% of global rice imports).
Import surge in March 2024: 921.51% year-on-year increase.
Per capita rice consumption: approximately 124 kg per year.
Primary suppliers: Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Pakistan, India.
Crisis trigger: El Niño-induced production deficit of 2.3 million tons.
Government mechanism: BULOG state logistics bureau handled all strategic imports.
Rice price peak: IDR 18,000 per kilogram in February 2024.
Long-term outcome: complete halt of rice imports achieved by 2025.

2. Philippines — $2,518,914,640: A Record High and a National Alarm

In 2024, the Philippines became the world’s leading rice importer by volume. Two main drivers led to this record: extreme weather sharply reduced domestic harvests, and Executive Order 62, issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., lowered import tariffs from 35% to 15%. This made large-scale imports possible. The country imported 4.68 million metric tons, nearly 30% more than in 2023. The total reached $2.52 billion, ranking second globally. Vietnam supplied about 3.56 million metric tons, or three-quarters of the total. Thailand and Pakistan were also key suppliers.

The goal was to lower retail prices and contain inflation. By December, rice inventory expanded by more than one-third year on year, reaching a two-year high. Despite increased stocks, issues persisted. The Integrated Rural Development Foundation highlighted two key challenges: three decades of land conversion cost 3.3 million metric tons in potential output. Farmers also struggled with abandoned harvests, pest problems, and weak procurement systems. Experts noted the $2.52 billion import bill as further evidence of stressed food security.

Key facts about the Philippines’ 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $2,518,914,640 — an all-time record.
Volume imported: 4.68 million metric tons, a 30% jump from 2023.
Tariff reduction: Executive Order 62 slashed the duty from 35% to 15%.
Top supplier: Vietnam, at approximately 3.56 million metric tons.
Second supplier: Thailand at 598,157 metric tons.
Year-on-year value increase: 54% growth from 2023.
End-of-year rice inventory: over 2.5 million metric tons, a two-year high.
Policy concern: land conversion has cost 3.3 million MT in annual production capacity.

3. Saudi Arabia — $2,012,584,250: The Kingdom That Runs on Rice

Rice is not native to the Arabian Peninsula and cannot be cultivated on a significant scale, making Saudi Arabia highly dependent on imports. In 2024, the main drivers were local climate constraints and water shortages, which halted domestic production, and rapid population growth, which boosted demand. As a result, the country imported over $2 billion worth of rice and ranked third globally by value. The imports highlighted rice’s importance in Saudi culture. Domestic rice production in the GCC fell by 99.8% to 408 tons due to unsustainable irrigation, leaving Saudi Arabia almost entirely reliant on imports. India supplied $1.52 billion, or about 75% of the total, mostly basmati and long-grain varieties.

Pakistan was the second-largest supplier, with $225.18 million in sales. The United States followed at $137.29 million, with its share quickly growing, especially in premium rice segments. The high import price of about $1,318 per ton reflected demand among Saudi Arabia’s upper-income consumers. Import prices averaged $1,007 per ton. The GCC’s total rice consumption reached 3 million tons in 2024, up 6.9% from 2023. Over 93% of imports came from India, Pakistan, and the U.S. Disruptions in South Asia threaten food security, so policymakers are working to diversify sources as part of Vision 2030.

Key facts about Saudi Arabia’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $2,012,584,250.
Quantity imported: 1.845 billion kilograms.
Primary supplier: India at $1.515 billion (75.3% of total).
Second supplier: Pakistan at $225.18 million.
Third supplier: United States at $137.29 million.
Market concentration risk: the top 3 suppliers control 93% of imports.
GCC rice consumption: 3 million tons in 2024, up 6.9% from 2023.
Local production collapse: GCC produced just 408 tons domestically in 2024.

4. United States — $1,616,348,200: The Land of Plenty That Still Buys Rice

Despite being a top exporter, the U.S. imported $1.62 billion in rice in 2024. Growing consumer demand for specialty rice drove imports, with Thailand, India, China, Pakistan, and Vietnam as the main suppliers. Imports nearly doubled since 2016/17, reflecting increased demand for jasmine, basmati, and other varieties.

Import volume growth: from ~787,000 MT in 2016/17 to ~1.5 million MT by 2023/24.
Simultaneous exporter: The U.S. exported $2.44 billion in rice in 2024.
Third supplier: China at $56.87 million.
Multicultural consumer preferences drove U.S. demand for specialty rice. These varieties are not widely grown domestically.

5. Malaysia — $1,097,628,460: Bridging the Self-Sufficiency Gap

In 2024, Malaysia remained a major rice importer. Population growth and limited arable land constrained paddy production to about 70% of demand, leaving the country reliant on imports. BERNAS, the state-linked company, is the sole importer, ensuring a stable supply.

Malaysia’s rice imports reflect both a production gap and demand for variety. Paddy land declined from 283,730 hectares in 2021 to 277,124 in 2024. Consumers seek a variety of rice types, including basmati (India, Pakistan) and fragrant rice (Thailand). The government aims to reduce imports by 2027 through 3% annual production growth, yet in 2024, Malaysia ranked among the top five importers.

Self-sufficiency level: approximately 70%.
Per capita rice consumption: approximately 80 kg per year.
Paddy cultivation land decline: 283,730 hectares (2021) to 277,124 hectares (2024).
Import policy: BERNAS is the designated sole government importer.
Malaysia sources rice from multiple countries to improve supply resilience.
Import ratio: improved from 0.78:1 (2023) to 0.89:1 (2024).
Future target: reduce imports by 2027 via 3% annual production growth.

6. Côte d’Ivoire — $1,005,650,450: West Africa’s Billion-Dollar Rice Challenge

Côte d’Ivoire’s rice imports surpassed the billion-dollar mark in 2024, representing a notable development in the dataset. Despite increases in domestic rice production—from approximately 1.8 million tons in 2015/16 to nearly 2.3 million tons in 2024/25—imports have also surged. This trend is attributed to consumption growth outpacing production, driven by urbanization, population increase, and changing dietary preferences in cities such as Abidjan, Bouaké, and Daloa. Rice has increasingly replaced traditional staples such as cassava, yams, and taro. Per capita rice consumption reached 84 kilograms per year, up from 58 kilograms two decades ago, and annual white rice consumption now approaches 3 million tons, significantly exceeding domestic supply.

Import volumes increased from 1.14 million tons in 2015 to 1.62 million tons in 2024, while the import bill more than doubled from 290.8 billion CFA francs to 609.6 billion CFA francs. Rice accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s cereal consumption, establishing it as a national staple. Côte d’Ivoire ranked second among Africa’s rice importers in 2024, behind Nigeria. The government has initiated an ambitious plan to achieve rice self-sufficiency by the end of 2026, investing in nine agro-industrial parks, including three already operational or under construction, totaling up to 1,200 billion CFA francs. The $1 billion import bill reflects both economic growth and the ongoing challenges facing the domestic agricultural sector.

Key facts about Côte d’Ivoire’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $1,005,650,450 — crossing the billion-dollar threshold.
Import volume: 1.62 million metric tons in 2024, up from 1.14 million tons in 2015.
Per capita consumption: 84 kg per year, up from 58 kg two decades ago.
Annual demand: approaching 3 million tons; domestic production covers far less.
Rank in Africa: second-largest rice importer after Nigeria.
Primary suppliers: India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Thailand.
Government response: nine agro-industrial parks, 1,200 billion CFA francs investment plan.
Self-sufficiency target: end of 2026.

7. China — $920,511,080: The Giant Stepping Back From Global Markets

China ranked seventh in rice import value in 2024, with $920.51 million, a figure that warrants contextual interpretation. Despite a population of 1.4 billion and status as the world’s largest rice producer and consumer, China’s rice imports remain relatively low. The 2024 import figure reflects a significant strategic withdrawal from global markets, with rice imports declining by 37% to 1.625 million metric tons compared to previous years. This reduction coincided with record domestic grain output of 700 million tons and a rice self-sufficiency rate of 99.2%. Rising rice stocks and modestly declining domestic consumption suggest that China’s rice imports are likely to continue to decline.

In 2024, China sourced rice from Thailand ($294.58 million, 432.98 million kg), Myanmar ($267.20 million, 563.89 million kg), Vietnam ($165.15 million, 280.59 million kg), Pakistan ($73.65 million), and Cambodia ($64.14 million). The Myanmar and Vietnam supply chains reflect China’s preference for affordable medium- and short-grain varieties from neighboring countries, particularly for industrial and blending purposes. China’s position is globally significant due to its scale; even as an importer, it represents $920 million in purchasing power. Any increase in China’s rice imports, even a modest return to previous volumes, would have immediate effects on global rice prices.

Key facts about China’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $920,511,080.
Quantity imported: 1.624 billion kilograms.
Year-on-year trend: rice imports dropped 37% in 2024.
Domestic rice self-sufficiency rate: 99.2% in 2024.
Top supplier: Thailand at $294.58 million.
Second supplier: Myanmar at $267.20 million.
Third supplier: Vietnam at $165.15 million.
Total 2024 grain production: historic 700 million tons.

8. United Kingdom — $750,556,440: A Multicultural Market Driving Steady Demand

The United Kingdom’s $750.56 million rice import expenditure in 2024 reflects demographic shifts, evolving consumer preferences, and changes in food supply chain dynamics. In 2024, UK milled rice consumption reached 897,000 tons, a 1.4% increase from the previous year, with a market value of $1.1 billion. The country relied predominantly on imports, totaling 723,000 tons. India was the leading supplier, accounting for $227.21 million and 186.43 million kilograms, providing both basmati rice favored by South Asian communities and standard white long-grain varieties. Pakistan was the second-largest supplier at $174.26 million, followed by Italy at $87.72 million (primarily risotto-grade Arborio rice), Uruguay at $41.26 million, and Thailand at $41.08 million.

The United Kingdom’s rice import patterns have evolved over several decades. The South Asian diaspora, the largest ethnic minority group in the country, consumes basmati rice at rates significantly above the national average. East Asian communities drive demand for jasmine and short-grain sushi varieties. Mainstream British consumers have increasingly adopted rice as a convenient and affordable carbohydrate staple. The UK milled rice market is projected to grow to 906,000 tons and $1.3 billion in value by 2035. The country produces approximately 205,000 tons domestically but exports only 31,000 tons, leaving it a consistent net importer. The steady growth in UK rice import volumes positions the UK as one of the most stable markets in global rice trade.

Key facts about the UK’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $750,556,440.
Total import volume: 723,000 metric tons.
Total consumption: 897,000 tons in 2024, up 1.4% year-on-year.
Top supplier: India at $227.21 million (basmati and white rice).
Second supplier: Pakistan at $174.26 million.
Third supplier: Italy at $87.72 million (risotto rice varieties).
Market forecast: reaching 906,000 tons and $1.3 billion value by 2035.
Import growth rate (2013-2024 CAGR): approximately +2.0% per year.

9. Brazil — $710,304,390: A Giant Caught Off-Guard by Nature

Brazil ranked as the ninth-largest global rice importer in 2024, with imports totaling $710.30 million, the highest level in over two decades. Despite being the largest rice producer in the Western Hemisphere, Brazil faced a significant shortfall due to catastrophic flooding in Rio Grande do Sul, the country’s primary rice-producing state. This event sharply reduced production and prompted the government to suspend import tariffs on most rice varieties as of May 21, 2024. The administration also announced plans to import 1 million tons of rice to stabilize domestic rice supplies.

In 2024, Brazil sourced its rice imports primarily from Paraguay ($354.33 million, 579.23 million kg), Uruguay ($183.97 million, 256.55 million kg), and Thailand ($108.34 million, 165.86 million kg). Argentina and Italy were also among the top five suppliers. Traditionally, Brazil imports duty-free only from MERCOSUR member countries such as Paraguay and Uruguay; Thailand’s significant presence among suppliers in 2024 underscores the severity of the domestic shortage, necessitating imports beyond the regional bloc. In July 2024, Brazilian ports received 204,200 metric tons of paddy rice, the highest monthly import volume in three and a half years, representing a 90.72% increase from June 2024. The 2024 floods highlighted the vulnerability of even major agricultural producers to extreme weather events and the rapid impact such disruptions can have on food security.

Key facts about Brazil’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $710,304,390 — highest in over two decades.
Quantity imported: 1.069 billion kilograms.
Crisis trigger: catastrophic flooding in Rio Grande do Sul, key rice-producing state.
Government response: tariff suspension effective May 21, 2024.
Top supplier: Paraguay at $354.33 million.
Second supplier: Uruguay at $183.97 million.
Third supplier: Thailand at $108.34 million (non-MERCOSUR, reflecting the severity of the shortage).
Peak month: July 2024 — 204,200 MT imported, a three-and-a-half-year high.

10. Benin — $705,699,980: The West African Trade Hub

Benin ranked 10th globally in rice imports in 2024, with a value of $705.70 million. Despite a population of approximately 13 million, Benin imports large volumes of rice, serving as a key informal re-export hub in West Africa. The country channels rice purchased from India, Thailand, Pakistan, and other exporters into neighboring countries, particularly Nigeria, which enforces strict agricultural import restrictions and bans formal rice imports.

In 2024, Benin imported 1.809 billion kilograms of rice valued at $705.70 million, with India as the dominant supplier, accounting for approximately 71% of the total at $487.94 million. Thailand was the second-largest supplier at $82.32 million, followed by Pakistan at $38.68 million. The scale of rice imports relative to Benin’s population of 13 million cannot be explained solely by domestic consumption, indicating the importance of re-export dynamics. Benin’s open trade policy and geographic position as a gateway to landlocked nations and a neighbor to import-restricted Nigeria have established it as a key player in West African food supply chains. This case illustrates that import statistics may not always reflect final consumption, as the port of entry and the ultimate destination can differ.

Key facts about Benin’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $705,699,980.
Quantity imported: 1.809 billion kilograms — remarkably high for a population of ~13 million.
Top supplier: India at $487.94 million (70% of total).
Second supplier: Thailand at $82.32 million.
Third supplier: Pakistan at $38.68 million.
Key dynamic: major informal re-export hub for West Africa.
Strategic position: gateway for landlocked countries and Nigeria-bound supplies.
Structural role: trade hub function elevates imports far beyond domestic consumption needs.

11. France — $686,716,300: Europe’s Rice Appetite

France, with $686.72 million in rice imports in 2024, is the European Union’s leading individual rice-importing nation in this dataset. Domestic rice production is primarily limited to the Camargue region in Provence, where short and medium-grain varieties are cultivated in historic wetland paddy fields. This production is culturally significant but commercially limited, meeting only a small portion of national demand. Increased rice consumption in France is driven by demographic changes, including large North African, Sub-Saharan African, and Asian diaspora communities, which sustain demand for long-grain, parboiled, and fragrant varieties that require importation. Additionally, the French food processing and manufacturing sectors use rice extensively in products such as ready meals, baby food, and beer.

France also serves as a redistribution point within the EU, importing rice in bulk and re-exporting value-added products across Europe. Trade flow data indicate that Germany and the Netherlands, despite their own import figures, receive significant quantities of rice products routed through French and Italian ports. France’s $686 million import bill reflects both domestic consumption and its function as a trade node within the European food system. At the regional level, Europe is becoming increasingly rice-dependent, with imports collectively accounting for 13.6% of global rice imports in 2024.

Key facts about France’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $686,716,300.
Domestic production: Camargue region, limited to niche varieties.
Import drivers: large diaspora communities, food processing industries, and a redistribution role.
EU context: Europe accounted for 13.6% of global rice imports in 2024.
Trade role: France functions as an EU redistribution hub for rice products.
Variety demand: long-grain, parboiled, fragrant varieties for a diverse consumer base.
Processing use: Rice is extensively used in food manufacturing and ready meals.
Market trend: Europe’s rice dependency is steadily growing with demographic shifts.

12. South Africa — $647,337,810: The Southern African Gateway

South Africa’s rice imports totaled $647.34 million in 2024, reflecting broader food supply dynamics in the southern African region. The country produces virtually no rice domestically, as its climate and agricultural land are better suited to maize and wheat. Rice is primarily consumed as a side dish and convenience food. South Africa serves as a regional distribution hub for rice destined for Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and other neighboring countries. In 2024, South Africa imported 1.074 billion kilograms of rice, mainly from Thailand ($488.56 million, 835.16 million kg) and India ($127.91 million, 206.12 million kg). Thailand’s dominance as a supplier to South Africa, accounting for approximately 75% of all rice imports by value, reflects both established trading relationships and the premium South African consumers and retailers place on Thai jasmine rice.

In 2024, South Africa ranked third in Africa in rice import value, behind Côte d’Ivoire and Benin but ahead of Senegal and Kenya. Across sub-Saharan Africa, rice consumption has increased due to urbanization and dietary changes, with South Africa serving as a key commercial hub for regional supply chains. The port infrastructure at Durban and Cape Town facilitates the distribution of large quantities of rice to retail markets across numerous neighboring countries.

Key facts about South Africa’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $647,337,810.
Quantity imported: 1.074 billion kilograms.
Top supplier: Thailand at $488.56 million (~75% of total).
Second supplier: India at $127.91 million.
Africa ranking: third-largest rice importer on the continent in 2024.
Domestic production: essentially zero; near-total import dependency.
Regional role: distribution hub for southern African landlocked nations.
Consumer preference: Thai jasmine rice commands a strong premium demand.

13. Japan — $626,734,970: Specialty Imports in a Rice-Proud Nation

Japan is recognized as one of the world’s most culturally rice-oriented nations, cultivating short-grain Japonica rice nationwide and incorporating it into nearly every meal. Despite this, Japan imported $626.73 million worth of rice in 2024. This is due in part to international obligations, particularly under World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, which require Japan to accept minimum access quantities of foreign rice, mainly from the United States and Thailand, regardless of domestic production. In 2024, the United States was the leading supplier, providing $337.51 million and 345.86 million kilograms of rice.

Much of the imported rice is used for industrial processing, including beer, sake, rice flour, and animal feed, while direct table consumption remains dominated by domestically grown short-grain varieties. Pan also imports specialty rice for its restaurant industry and food processing sector, and for blending when domestic stocks are insufficient. In 2024, low harvest yields and depleted reserves resulted in tight domestic supplies, elevated retail prices, and increased import activity. Japan’s position in the global rice trade reflects a combination of WTO compliance, industrial demand, and supply-side constraints, making its $626 million import figure indicative of both policy and market realities.

Key facts about Japan’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $626,734,970.
Top supplier: United States at $337.51 million.
WTO obligation: minimum access quantities for foreign rice.
Primary use: industrial processing — beer, sake, rice flour, animal feed.
Domestic production: short-grain Japonica rice, consumed directly at the table.
Trade driver: a combination of WTO compliance, industrial demand, and supply shortfalls.
Cultural significance: Rice is embedded in Japanese national identity and food culture.
2024 context: low domestic harvest yields contributed to tight supplies and higher prices.

14. Mexico — $618,212,530: From Tortilla Nation to Rice Importer

Mexico’s rice imports reached $618.21 million in 2024, a significant figure for a country often associated with corn and wheat. Rice is an integral part of Mexican cuisine, with arroz mexicano serving as a staple side dish in most households. The country’s population of over 130 million generates substantial demand that domestic production cannot fully satisfy. The United States is the primary rice supplier to Mexico, a relationship facilitated by geographic proximity and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). In 2024, the United States exported $470.10 million worth of rice to Mexico, representing the largest bilateral rice trade flow in the Americas.

Mexico also imports rice from Thailand and other Asian exporters to supply specialty markets, including Japanese restaurants, sushi bars, and the expanding Asian-Mexican fusion cuisine sector in major cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. Mexico’s reliance on American rice imports closely links its food security to U.S. agricultural policy and trade relationships, a dynamic managed under the USMCA frameworks. Rice consumption in Mexico has grown steadily with urbanization, and import figures reflect both population growth and a gradual shift away from domestic production that has not kept pace with demand.

Key facts about Mexico’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $618,212,530.
Top supplier: United States at $470.10 million (dominant bilateral flow).
Trade framework: USMCA drives preferential U.S.-Mexico rice trade.
Cultural role: Arroz Mexicano is a core staple at nearly every Mexican meal.
Population driver: over 130 million people generating sustained demand.
Food security dependency: closely tied to U.S. agricultural policy and trade relations.
Market trend: urbanization is accelerating the shift toward imported varieties.
Specialty demand: Asian-variety imports growing for restaurant and niche markets.

15. Germany — $536,513,430: The EU’s Industrial Rice Hub

Germany imported $536.51 million worth of rice in 2024, reflecting its role at the intersection of large-scale food processing and a diverse import market. The country does not produce rice domestically due to climatic constraints and relies almost entirely on imports to meet both direct consumer demand and the needs of large-scale food manufacturing. Germany’s population of approximately 84 million includes significant Turkish, South Asian, and East Asian communities, as well as mainstream consumers who have increasingly incorporated rice into their diets over the past two decades. German food processors are among Europe’s leading producers of rice-based products, including ready meals, baby cereals, rice cakes, and gluten-free alternatives, sustaining robust industrial demand for imported rice.

Italy and the Netherlands are Germany’s primary rice suppliers within Europe, frequently serving as re-export channels for Asian rice that has been processed or repackaged before reaching the German market. Germany’s position within the EU single market complicates statistical attribution of rice origin, as Indian basmati or Thai jasmine may first enter the EU through Rotterdam or Genoa before being shipped to Germany, leading to fluid bilateral trade flows. With $536 million in imports, Germany is the largest national rice importer in continental Europe in this ranking, and import volumes are expected to increase as the food industry expands its rice-based product lines.

Key facts about Germany’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $536,513,430.
Domestic production: zero — entirely import-dependent.
Primary intra-EU suppliers: Italy and the Netherlands.
Consumer base: diverse multicultural population with strong rice demand.
Industrial driver: major food processing sector producing rice-based consumer goods.
EU context: the largest national rice importer in continental Europe in this ranking.
Market trend: gluten-free and health-oriented rice products are driving new demand.
Supply chain note: Asian rice often transits Rotterdam or Genoa before reaching Germany.

16. Senegal — $517,995,250: West Africa’s Rice Import Surge

Senegal’s rice imports reached $517.99 million in 2024, making it one of the fastest-growing import markets in global rice trade, up 57.4% from 2023. For a country of approximately 18 million people, this represents one of the highest per capita rice import values in Sub-Saharan Africa. Rice is deeply embedded in Senegalese food culture, exemplified by thiéboudienne, a rice-and-fish dish recognized by UNESCO as part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage. Urbanization, rising incomes, and an expanding urban middle class have significantly increased rice consumption over the past decade, while domestic production from the Senegal River valley has not kept pace with demand.

India and Thailand are Senegal’s primary rice suppliers, reflecting regional patterns across West Africa. Senegal’s reliance on rice imports increases its vulnerability to disruptions in South Asian export supplies; for example, India’s export restrictions in 2023 had significant impacts on Senegalese household budgets. The government has announced multiple initiatives to achieve rice self-sufficiency, and the Senegal River valley is considered one of West Africa’s most promising regions for expanded paddy production. However, the 57.4% increase in rice imports between 2023 and 2024 indicates that Senegal will likely remain a major buyer in global rice markets in the near future, with its import bill expected to grow alongside population and urban expansion.

Key facts about Senegal’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $517,995,250.
Year-on-year growth: +57.4% from 2023 — among the fastest-growing importers.
Cultural significance: Rice is central to Senegalese identity (thiéboudienne).
Primary suppliers: India and Thailand.
Import driver: rapid urbanization and rising demand from the urban middle class.
Supply vulnerability: sensitive to changes in Indian export policy.
Domestic potential: The Senegal River valley offers significant opportunities for production expansion.
Population trend: continued population and urban growth will sustain import demand.

17. Kenya — $504,809,350: East Africa’s Rising Importer

Kenya imported $504.81 million worth of rice in 2024, establishing itself as one of East Africa’s most significant rice importers, a trend that has accelerated over the past decade. Rapid urban population growth in Nairobi and other major cities, along with a shift in dietary preferences among younger, more affluent urban residents, has driven increased rice consumption. While Kenya produces some paddy rice domestically, particularly through the Mwea irrigation scheme, self-sufficiency rates have declined since 2020 due to government decisions to reduce import duties, which have made domestic production less competitive.

In 2024, the East African region witnessed notable dynamics in rice trade. Above-average harvests in Tanzania increased regional supply, while a ban on wetland rice production in Uganda shifted supply flows across borders. Kenya is central to these regional trade patterns, importing rice from South Asia and accessing regionally produced supplies. India remains Kenya’s dominant supplier, consistent with its role as the primary source of affordable rice varieties across East and West Africa. Kenya’s $504 million import bill in 2024 reflects both genuine food demand and the structural impact of agricultural policy decisions on the import landscape.

Key facts about Kenya’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $504,809,350.
Import trend: rising sharply; self-sufficiency declining since 2020.
Policy driver: reduction in import duties made domestic production less competitive.
East Africa context: Tanzania surplus and Uganda wetland ban shifted regional flows.
Consumer trend: urban Kenyans are increasingly choosing rice over traditional staples.
Primary supplier: India — dominant across East African rice markets.
Domestic production: Mwea irrigation scheme — the largest paddy growing area in Kenya.
Regional role: Kenya as an import and redistribution hub for landlocked East African nations.

18. Mozambique — $485,056,350: A Near-Record Import Story

Mozambique completes the top 18 with $485.06 million in rice imports in 2024. For a nation still facing significant development challenges, this represents a substantial food import bill. Mozambique was identified by forecasters in late 2023 as one of Africa’s fastest-growing rice importers, with import volumes projected to reach near-record highs amid stronger-than-expected purchases from India. The country’s population is growing rapidly, rice consumption is increasing as urbanization spreads from Maputo and Beira into secondary cities, and domestic production has not kept pace with demand. India is Mozambique’s primary supplier, reflecting the broader India–Sub-Saharan Africa rice trade corridor that dominates the continent.

Mozambique’s rice import trends are linked to broader East African supply dynamics. South Africa serves as a regional distribution hub to the south, while urban demand along Mozambique’s coastline and the Zambezi corridor continues to grow, contributing to sustained high import volumes. The government has received support from international agricultural organizations to strengthen the rice value chain; for example, the Coalition for African Rice Development conducted a mission to Maputo in 2024 to encourage investment in domestic production capacity. Mozambique’s 2024 import bill of $485 million highlights the persistent gap between domestic production and national consumption needs.

Key facts about Mozambique’s 2024 rice imports:

Total import value: $485,056,350.
Near-record high, driven by strong India purchases.
Primary supplier: India.
Import driver: rapid population growth and urbanization from Maputo to secondary cities.
Regional supply: South Africa serves as a southern distribution hub.
Development support: a mission to Maputo in 2024 aimed to strengthen the rice value chain.
Domestic gap: production significantly below consumption demand.
Future outlook: Import volumes are expected to remain elevated without major agricultural investment.

The Bigger Picture: Regional Patterns and Global Drivers

Analysis of regional patterns in the data reveals several key themes. Asia was the leading market for imported rice in 2024, accounting for $19.1 billion, or 50% of the global total. African buyers ranked second at 21.1%, led by Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Senegal, and the East African corridor of Kenya and Mozambique. Europe accounted for 13.6%, North America for 6.93%, and Oceania for 1.4% of global rice imports. The top 15 importers collectively accounted for 51.1% of total global rice imports, underscoring the concentration of demand among leading countries.

The fastest-growing importers between 2023 and 2024 were Vietnam (+93.1%), Senegal (+57.4%), the Philippines (+54%), and Indonesia (+51.5%). These increases reflect acute climate-driven disruptions (Indonesia, Philippines), structural changes in food supply (Senegal), and market dynamics influenced by tariff and trade policy adjustments. Conversely, China’s 37% decline in rice imports and Indonesia’s cessation of imports by 2025 indicate that some countries are successfully increasing domestic production capacity. The global rice import market remains dynamic, sensitive to climate and policy changes, and subject to significant year-to-year fluctuations.

Climate, Food Security, and the Road Ahead

A consistent theme among all 137 countries in the rice import dataset is vulnerability. Climate change is a pervasive factor reshaping global rice trade relationships. El Niño disrupted production in Indonesia and the Philippines, while flooding devastated Brazil’s harvest. India’s export restrictions, prompted by domestic food security concerns and erratic monsoon patterns, significantly affected West and East Africa. Thailand, a leading exporter, is experiencing extreme heat, drought, and flooding that threaten future yields. The global milled rice market, valued at $522 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% through 2035; however, this forecast is contingent upon stable climate and trade conditions, which recent events indicate are increasingly uncertain.

The global rice trade is at a critical juncture. Leading importers such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Côte d’Ivoire are actively investing in strategies to reduce import dependency, increase domestic production, and diversify supply chains. Indonesia has demonstrated rapid progress, while the Philippines and Côte d’Ivoire continue to address structural challenges that require long-term solutions. For food security researchers, trade analysts, and policymakers, the data presented in the accompanying infographic offers a comprehensive overview of global rice dependencies, vulnerabilities, and opportunities, thereby informing food policy decisions for the coming decade and beyond.

Here is a full list of Rice Imports by Country:

Rank	Country	Rice Imports (in 1000 USD)
1	🇮🇩 Indonesia	2710255.30
2	🇵🇭 Philippines	2518914.64
3	🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia	2012584.25
4	🇺🇸 United States	1616348.20
5	🇲🇾 Malaysia	1097628.46
6	🇨🇮 Cote d'Ivoire	1005650.45
7	🇨🇳 China	920511.08
8	🇬🇧 United Kingdom	750556.44
9	🇧🇷 Brazil	710304.39
10	🇧🇯 Benin	705699.98
11	🇫🇷 France	686716.30
12	🇿🇦 South Africa	647337.81
13	🇯🇵 Japan	626734.97
14	🇲🇽 Mexico	618212.53
15	🇩🇪 Germany	536513.43
16	🇸🇳 Senegal	517995.25
17	🇰🇪 Kenya	504809.35
18	🇲🇿 Mozambique	485056.35
19	🇨🇦 Canada	450677.94
20	🇳🇱 Netherlands	434759.62
21	🇰🇷 Korea, Rep.	410301.63
22	🇧🇪 Belgium	374300.27
23	🇸🇬 Singapore	341438.77
24	🇪🇸 Spain	320239.26
25	🇮🇹 Italy	311464.92
26	🇴🇲 Oman	303724.62
27	🇰🇼 Kuwait	301255.56
28	🇦🇺 Australia	289810.01
29	🇯🇴 Jordan	284147.29
30	🇹🇷 Turkey	280922.78
31	🇾🇪 Yemen	272806.88
32	🇦🇴 Angola	262541.90
33	🇭🇰 Hong Kong, China	249957.79
34	🇳🇪 Niger	243198.00
35	🇺🇬 Uganda	229514.05
36	🇶🇦 Qatar	201724.27
37	🇩🇿 Algeria	192927.37
38	🇿🇼 Zimbabwe	190434.19
39	🇨🇷 Costa Rica	179307.90
40	🇩🇴 Dominican Republic	172412.44
41	🇵🇱 Poland	172327.58
42	🇵🇹 Portugal	166157.83
43	🇮🇱 Israel	159046.00
44	🇨🇱 Chile	155425.23
45	🇲🇬 Madagascar	144057.14
46	🇨🇴 Colombia	142757.44
47	🇧🇫 Burkina Faso	137026.05
48	🇵🇪 Peru	124072.26
49	🇳🇮 Nicaragua	116074.21
50	🇭🇳 Honduras	114396.97
51	🇨🇿 Czech Republic	109822.31
52	🇸🇪 Sweden	108415.53
53	🇪🇬 Egypt, Arab Rep.	101639.12
54	🇨🇭 Switzerland	100743.94
55	🇬🇹 Guatemala	93085.82
56	🇱🇰 Sri Lanka	84220.84
57	🇱🇧 Lebanon	83653.67
58	🇲🇦 Morocco	79527.66
59	🇧🇭 Bahrain	77579.81
60	🇹🇬 Togo	74404.70
61	🇦🇹 Austria	72632.87
62	🇵🇦 Panama	71888.69
63	🇳🇿 New Zealand	70775.69
64	🇬🇲 Gambia, The	70164.47
65	🇯🇲 Jamaica	69454.18
66	🇲🇺 Mauritius	68289.20
67	🇦🇿 Azerbaijan	66116.68
68	🇺🇦 Ukraine	65551.17
69	🇩🇰 Denmark	62205.50
70	🇸🇻 El Salvador	61696.61
71	🇮🇪 Ireland	57308.80
72	🇵🇰 Pakistan	57283.35
73	🇷🇴 Romania	51116.54
74	🇫🇮 Finland	48204.44
75	🇳🇴 Norway	44804.99
76	🇭🇺 Hungary	41663.80
77	🇧🇬 Bulgaria	39685.20
78	🇫🇯 Fiji	36407.40
79	🇸🇰 Slovak Republic	34948.65
80	🇳🇬 Nigeria	34386.52
81	🇧🇳 Brunei	33866.35
82	🇲🇻 Maldives	28915.21
83	🇬🇷 Greece	28840.14
84	🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago	28495.90
85	🇹🇳 Tunisia	27507.98
86	🇲🇴 Macao	27131.05
87	🇱🇹 Lithuania	22721.47
88	🇳🇦 Namibia	21597.76
89	🇦🇱 Albania	20712.59
90	🇭🇷 Croatia	19896.66
91	🇲🇷 Mauritania	19760.30
92	🇨🇻 Cape Verde	18663.78
93	🇿🇲 Zambia	16322.71
94	🇺🇿 Uzbekistan	14847.47
95	🇧🇸 Bahamas, The	14718.70
96	🇰🇿 Kazakhstan	13784.72
97	🇸🇮 Slovenia	13436.38
98	🇹🇭 Thailand	12873.93
99	🇷🇸 Serbia, FR(Serbia/Montenegro)	12006.39
100	🇨🇾 Cyprus	11819.82
101	🇵🇫 French Polynesia	10993.32
102	🇨🇫 Central African Republic	9856.61
103	🇬🇪 Georgia	9793.32
104	🇱🇺 Luxembourg	9631.12
105	🇱🇻 Latvia	9069.94
106	🇦🇲 Armenia	9039.30
107	🇲🇹 Malta	8475.17
108	🇱🇸 Lesotho	8464.78
109	🇸🇨 Seychelles	8346.77
110	🇲🇩 Moldova	7834.40
111	🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina	7497.23
112	🇰🇬 Kyrgyz Republic	7104.17
113	🇼🇸 Samoa	6688.99
114	🇰🇭 Cambodia	6088.78
115	🇪🇪 Estonia	5915.93
116	🇮🇳 India	5621.03
117	🇺🇾 Uruguay	5297.51
118	🇧🇧 Barbados	4843.27
119	🇦🇷 Argentina	4836.54
120	🇲🇲 Myanmar	4620.47
121	🇲🇼 Malawi	3986.67
122	🇮🇸 Iceland	3854.26
123	🇰🇾 Cayman Islands	3084.60
124	🇲🇪 Montenegro	2655.84
125	🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda	2197.29
126	🇬🇩 Grenada	2117.11
127	🇧🇲 Bermuda	1575.83
128	🇧🇴 Bolivia	1470.50
129	🇵🇾 Paraguay	1054.56
130	🇹🇿 Tanzania	947.81
131	🇪🇨 Ecuador	892.75
132	🇧🇿 Belize	712.57
133	🇲🇰 North Macedonia	534.44
134	🇬🇾 Guyana	466.42
135	🇸🇷 Suriname	352.39
136	🇲🇸 Montserrat	170.87