Vietnam 2008 Rice Shipments Lower On Year

According to figures released by the Vietnam Food Association, Vietnam has exported 3 million MT of rice so far this year, a drop of 5.7 % from the same period last year.

However revenues from the export of the grain between the start of this year and August 22 reached $1.79 billion, up 92 % from the same period last year, the association said in its weekly report.

Industry officials say Vietnam is capable of exporting 5 million MT of husked rice a year after retaining sufficient stocks to feed its 86.5 million people and for national reserves.