Thai–China Seal 40,000-Tonne Rice Deal

The governments of Thailand and China have finalised a Government-to-Government (G-to-G) agreement for the sale of 40,000 tonnes of Thai rice. Deliveries under the deal are scheduled to begin gradually from February 2026 onwards. The agreement is seen as reinforcing export momentum and supporting domestic rice price stability.

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The announcement was made on Friday, 27 February 2026, by Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, who described the deal as a significant step reflecting the strong relationship and long-standing rice trade cooperation between the two countries. She said the Department of Foreign Trade has been instructed to continue negotiations to facilitate further sales. The move is intended to accommodate the upcoming off-season rice harvest entering the market and to help stimulate Thai rice exports.

Suphajee noted that G-to-G rice negotiations are complex and require multiple stages of consideration, particularly for 5% white rice, which China is seeking and where pricing remains a crucial factor. She and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed the matter during a meeting held at the invitation of Zhang Jianwei, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Thailand. During the talks, the Chinese side expressed its intention to expedite additional rice purchases to reach a target of 500,000 tonnes by the end of 2026.

Officials emphasised the exclusive nature of the trade relationship, stating that China conducts G-to-G rice trade only with Thailand. The Ministry of Commerce has directed the Department of Foreign Trade to closely monitor global rice market conditions and pricing trends while continuing negotiations. The government is also advancing trade delegation plans and expanding promotional efforts to increase Thai rice market share worldwide.

Arada Fuangtong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, said activities are planned to penetrate both established and high-potential new markets. These efforts target high-quality and healthy rice markets in Germany, Switzerland, the United States, Canada, China, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Australia. The ministry is also promoting the potential of SMEs in line with the minister’s directives.

The Nation reported that further negotiations are expected as Thailand works towards supporting China’s broader target of 500,000 tonnes by 2026. Authorities will continue monitoring global market developments while accelerating export promotion initiatives. The gradual delivery schedule for the 40,000-tonne agreement is already under way.

Pictures courtesy of The Nation

Key Takeaways

• Thailand and China have agreed a 40,000-tonne G-to-G rice deal, with deliveries starting from February 2026.

• China aims to increase total rice purchases from Thailand to 500,000 tonnes by 2026.

• The Ministry of Commerce is expanding export promotion and market penetration efforts globally.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 Feb 2026