Brazil stands out as the only country in Latin America within the global top 10 for rice production and consumption, according to the report Global Rice Consumption Trends. With over 7 million tons produced annually, the South American giant ranks tenth, surpassing nations like Peru and Panama, which, despite their notable production, fail to enter this exclusive group.
The report indicates that approximately 3.5 billion people rely on rice as a fundamental part of their diet, especially in Asia, where China and India dominate global consumption. The demand in Brazil, as highlighted by the IBGE, underscores the importance of this grain in the daily diet of its population.
In addition to its domestic consumption, Brazil has solidified its role in international trade, managing to overtake China as the leading rice exporter for the 2024/2025 campaign, with a historic volume of 7.5 million tons. This growth translates into increased competitiveness in the global market against traditional competitors like India and Thailand.
Meanwhile, Peru achieved a production of 3.7 million tons, and Panama, with 9.6 million quintals, ensures its self-sufficiency in the region, although they do not compare to Brazil’s figures. For more details on the rice situation in these countries, you can refer to the note regarding the interception of a vessel in the Indian Ocean and its impact on trade.
