Myanmar: GW-11 rice fetches premium prices as Philippine demand strengthens

• Philippines preparing to purchase over 5 mnt 
• Myanmar exports more than 800,000 t in Apr-Aug

Myanmar’s high-quality GW-11 rice is commanding premium prices in the Philippine market amid strong demand for the variety. Myanmar is receiving around $580/t for GW-11 rice exported to the Philippines, compared with about $480/ton reportedly received by Thailand for the same variety. The Philippines has emerged as a key market for Myanmar’s GW-11 rice, with buyers showing preference for the variety because of its quality.

Philippine demand supports Myanmar exports

Philippines has purchased more GW-11 rice from Myanmar as demand for the variety has increased. Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand are among the countries supplying rice to the Philippine market. GW-11 orders account for a significant share of Myanmar’s shipments to the Philippines, with the variety gaining traction due to its quality rather than milling technology. GW-11 rice from Myanmar’s Ayeyarwady Region initially entered the Philippine market at relatively moderate prices. However, stronger demand in recent months has supported higher prices, including for supplies from the Mandalay Region.

Myanmar seeks to expand GW-11 cultivation

The stronger demand and premium prices have encouraged calls for increased cultivation of GW-11 rice in the Ayeyarwady Region and other producing areas while maintaining the variety’s quality. Myanmar exported more than 800,000 t of rice between April and August. Belgium remained a major destination for Myanmar’s broken-rice exports, while the Philippines continued to purchase GW-11 rice. The Philippines is reportedly preparing to purchase up to 5 million tonnes of rice, keeping the country an important market for Asian rice exporters.

Outlook

Strong Philippine demand could continue to support Myanmar’s GW-11 rice prices, particularly if buyers maintain their preference for the variety. However, Myanmar’s ability to expand GW-11 exports will depend availability of suitable-quality rice and expansion of cultivation while maintaining the variety’s quality. The reported price gap with Thailand also highlights the current premium on being achieved by Myanmar’s GW-11 rice in the Philippine market.