Due to continious overseas demand in the recent weeks, Thailand's rice exports fr the year 2007 are likely to hit a record high of 9 million MT higher than previously forecast.

Lower exports from rival suppliers India and Vietnam, coupled with an expected increase in import demand from countries such as the Philippines China, Bangladesh, and those in Africa have boosted thailand rice exports this year.

The Thai government had earlier targeted 8.5 million MT of rice exports this year, exceeding exports of 7.5 million MT in 2006.