In the past two months, rice prices have increased in international markets, but in the Indian markets, both Basmati and non-Basmati rice, as well as paddy, are in a difficult situation. Compared to last year, Basmati and non-Basmati paddy prices are down by up to 25%. Currently, Basmati paddy varieties such as 1509, 1692, and 1847 are trading between ₹2600 and ₹2800 per quintal. Non-Basmati paddy varieties like PR are not even fetching ₹2000. Farmers attribute this to shortcomings in government policies. On one hand, the Indian government has set a minimum export price of $950 for Basmati rice, while on the other hand, it has imposed restrictions on the export of non-Basmati rice, leading to an increase in the supply of both types of rice in domestic markets. This is why prices for both Basmati and non-Basmati paddy and rice remain weak. Despite strong demand for rice, and record-breaking exports of Basmati rice from India in 2023-24, domestic rice prices remain low, causing farmers to feel deceived. In Thailand, non-Basmati rice prices have surged significantly in the past two weeks. Last week saw a notable increase in the export prices of Thai rice in Asian markets, reaching a two-month high. Traders and analysts believe that this increase is primarily due to rising global demand and concerns about supply disruptions due to flooding in Bangladesh. Specifically, the price of Thailand's 5% broken rice, which is in high demand internationally, has risen to $580 per ton, $10 more than the previous week. Experts attribute this price rise to currency exchange rate fluctuations and strong global demand. However, there is still some sluggishness in the market, with most transactions involving the delivery of old orders. Despite the flooding in Bangladesh, there are no serious concerns about supply from Thailand due to good water levels there. This increase is a positive sign for Thai rice exporters but also indicates rising global food market prices. In Bangladesh, the recent devastating floods have led to a spike in rice prices. The floods have severely damaged paddy crops and affected rice supply in the country. Experts believe that rice prices may increase further in the near future. In Vietnam, rice prices remain stable. According to the Vietnam Food Association, the price of 5% broken rice in Vietnam is unchanged at $578 per ton compared to last week. Overall, while the international market sees rising rice prices, the domestic markets in India are grappling with declining prices due to oversupply and policy issues.