Vietnam likely to export 6.5 million tonnes of rice in 2018

High-quality rice accounts for a large proportion of total rice export volume and normal rice makes up less than 20 percent, Tuan said.

Vietnam shipped 861,000 tonnes of rice abroad in the first two months of this year, earning USD419 million, up 17 percent in volume and 34 percent in value compared with the same period last year.

The Philippines was the biggest importer of Vietnamese rice, accounting for 26.9 percent of the market share. It was followed by China, with 23.5 percent.

The export price for Vietnamese rise rose from USD435 per tonne in 2016 to USD450 per tonne in 2017 and USD475 per tonne during January-February.

The increase was attributed to the country's efforts to raise its rice quality.

Vietnam is doing well in increasing rice quality, Deputy Minister Tuan said, suggesting the country focus on improving the brand name of its rice.

Last year, Vietnam pocketed USD2.6 billion from exporting 5.8 million tonnes of rice.

(Source: CPV)