Top rice news today covers: Kerala plans to release 25,000 tonnes of rice to control prices during Onam amid reduced central allocations. Indonesia is preparing premium rice exports to Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE, expanding its overseas markets. At the same time, Vietnam is urging businesses to increase paddy purchases from farmers to support incomes, stabilise prices and strengthen its rice supply chain and global competitiveness.

Why Kerala Plans 25,000-Tonne Rice Release to Curb Prices?

Kerala govt. will release an additional 25,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market if prices rise, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob stated. The state has already made 165,932 tonnes of rice and 24,506 tonnes of wheat available through the public distribution system (PDS) before Onam festival to help stabilise prices. Moreover, the government has increased the rice supply under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS), with 2,000 tonnes distributed as of August 16. Demand for OMSS rice is expected to increase, particularly in northern Kerala. Not only this, but the minister asserted there has been no reduction in the quantity or change in prices for ration-card holders. The state’s move comes amid concerns over reduced central rice allocations. Since January 2026, Kerala’s allocation has dropped by 6,459 tonnes, prompting the government to bring additional rice into the market to provide relief during the Onam season

Indonesia Prepares Premium Rice Export to Malaysia

Indonesia is preparing to increase its rice exports to Malaysia, as the state logistics agency Perum Bulog readying premium rice supplies for overseas markets. Bulog has stated it has nearly 200,000 tonnes of premium rice available for export to Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE, with Malaysia among the major destinations. Moreover, the move reflects Indonesia’s growing focus on boosting its position as a rice-producing and exporting country. The government has been exploring markets in Southeast Asia and beyond, including Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Saudi Arabia. In March, Indonesia also shipped its first 2,280 tonnes of premium rice to Saudi Arabia, marking a step toward expanding its overseas rice market.

For Malaysia, Indonesian supplies could provide an additional source of premium rice amid regional food-security concerns. The planned shipments also signal increasing rice trade within Southeast Asia, as producers look to diversify markets and strengthen regional supply chains.

Why Vietnam Urges Businesses to Boost Rice Purchases?

The Vietnam Food Association (VFA) has called on rice exporters, traders and businesses to step up purchases of paddy from farmers to help stabilise prices and support rural incomes. Moreover, the appeal comes as farmers face pressure from weaker market prices and rising production costs. The VFA has encouraged businesses to prioritise high-quality varieties, including DT8 and OM18, and strengthen purchasing and storage operations during the harvest. In addition, it urged exporters to secure stronger and more sustainable contracts in overseas markets, helping create stable demand for Vietnamese rice. The association’s call is aimed at preventing further declines in farm-gate prices along with ensuring farmers receive better returns for their crops. Greater coordination between farmers, traders, processors and exporters could also boost Vietnam’s rice supply chain and enhance the country’s competitiveness in global rice markets.