Rice
Price Chart
At a Glance
Rice is the staple food for more than half the world's population. Unlike other grains, the rice market is thinly traded on futures exchanges because most production is consumed domestically. India is the largest exporter (~40% of global trade) — its export bans or restrictions can cause global price spikes. Prices are sensitive to monsoon rainfall in South and Southeast Asia, El Niño events, and government stockpiling policies.
Supply & Demand
Supply
Demand
Key Drivers
India Export Policy
bullishIndia controls ~40% of global rice exports. Export bans or minimum prices can cause immediate global price spikes.
Monsoon Rainfall
neutralRice production in South and Southeast Asia is heavily dependent on monsoon patterns. El Niño events reduce yields.
Food Security Stockpiling
neutralAsian governments maintain strategic rice reserves. Large purchases or releases can move markets.
Population Growth
bullishGrowing populations in Africa and South Asia are increasing global rice consumption ~1% annually.
Climate Change
bullishRising temperatures and water scarcity threaten rice yields in tropical regions, especially paddy-dependent areas.
Thin Market Liquidity
neutralThe rice futures market is less liquid than other grains, leading to higher volatility and wider spreads.
Historical Returns
| Year | Annual Return | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | +3.80% | |
| 2024 | -5.00% | |
| 2023 | +22.50% | |
| 2022 | +8.40% | |
| 2021 | -10.20% | |
| 2020 | +14.80% | |
| 2019 | -8.50% | |
| 2018 | +2.70% | |
| 2017 | +14.50% | |
| 2016 | +10.20% |