Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population and is one of the most important cereal crops globally. It plays a crucial role in global food security and has a significant impact on international trade.

• Major Producers: The top rice-producing countries are China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
• Export Markets: Thailand, India, Vietnam, and the U.S. are major rice exporters, supplying large volumes to countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Market Influences: Rice trade is influenced by factors such as government policies, tariffs, climate conditions, and global food demand. Rice prices can fluctuate based on supply, droughts, and trade restrictions in exporting countries.

• White Rice: The most commonly consumed type, white rice has had the husk, bran, and germ removed, making it softer and quicker to cook.
• Brown Rice: A whole grain that retains its bran and germ, making it more nutritious than white rice. It has a slightly nutty flavor and takes longer to cook.
• Basmati Rice: Known for its long grains and aromatic fragrance, this rice is primarily grown in India and Pakistan and is popular in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
• Jasmine Rice: A fragrant long-grain rice mostly grown in Thailand, with a soft, sticky texture when cooked, popular in Southeast Asian cuisine.
• Glutinous (Sticky) Rice: Used mainly in desserts and traditional dishes in East and Southeast Asia, it becomes very sticky when cooked.
• Wild Rice: Though not technically rice, it is harvested from grasses and is higher in protein and fiber, often used in gourmet dishes.