Listening to the heartbeat of the global rice market
In a fragile balance, how do we protect a staple that feeds billions?
LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (19 August 2025) — The global rice market plays a central role in food security, trade stability, and rural livelihoods across much of Asia and Africa. In recognition of its importance, the 2025 Council for Partnerships on Rice Research in Asia (CORRA) Science Webinar, hosted by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), focused on understanding the forces shaping rice markets and their implications for national strategies and regional collaboration.
Drawing from IRRI’s global modeling work, IRRI Senior Scientist for Policy Analysis and Climate Change Dr. Alisher Mirzabaev outlined key trends influencing the balance of rice supply and demand, the role of climate and policy shocks, and emerging opportunities for strengthening resilience through research, technology, and institutional coordination.
Demand is growing but supply faces challenges
Current projections indicate that global rice demand will continue to grow over the next 25 years, driven by population growth in Asia and Africa and by shifts in consumer preferences linked to income growth and urbanization. However, supply is expected to face increasing constraints. In many producing countries, the expansion of rice-growing areas has reached ecologically sustainable limits. As a result, future gains in production will need to come primarily from yield improvements.