Myanmar’s GW-11 rice is fetching a record-high price in the Philippines due to strong demand, with more than 800,000 tonnes of rice exported from Myanmar between April and August, according to the Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF).
Myanmar competes with Vietnam and Thailand in supplying rice to the Philippine market. MRF Management Committee Member U Sai Kyaw said the strong demand for GW-11 is mainly driven by the variety’s quality rather than milling technology.
“More than 800,000 tonnes have been exported within four months as the Philippines has been actively purchasing GW-11 rice. Among the countries supplying rice to the Philippines, Myanmar is receiving the highest price—one that has never been achieved before,” he said.
Myanmar’s GW-11 rice is currently selling to the Philippines at about US$580 per tonne, compared with US$480 per tonne for Thai rice of the same variety.
GW-11 rice was initially exported to the Philippines from Ayeyawady Region at moderate prices. However, growing demand has pushed up prices, with GW-11 produced in Mandalay Region also now receiving favourable prices.
U Sai Kyaw said the Philippines has been purchasing GW-11 from Vietnam as well, but its stronger demand for Myanmar’s rice and willingness to pay more than Thailand represents an encouraging development for Myanmar’s rice export sector.
He also stressed the need to expand dedicated GW-11 cultivation areas in Ayeyawady and other regions while maintaining the quality of the variety to meet growing overseas demand.
Myanmar exported GW-11 rice to China in 2024 and began shipments to the Philippines in 2026. The variety has since gained popularity among Philippine buyers, resulting in increased orders. The Philippines is preparing to purchase up to five million tonnes of rice, while Myanmar’s rice exports continue, including substantial shipments of broken rice to Belgium.
Nyein Thu (MNA)/ST
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