For expats and long-term tourists, it is important to understand the price of rice in Vietnam, a staple food in the country, to effectively manage expenses and make appropriate choices during their stay.
Coming to a country where daily meals revolve around rice, it is essential to acquire general knowledge, particularly about the price of rice in Vietnam. The versatility of rice allows for a myriad of savory and sweet delicacies. By staying informed about its cost, you can select rice that aligns with your budget, enhancing your dining experience while honoring this cherished staple food.
1. Main factors affecting the price of rice in Vietnam
The price of rice in Vietnam is determined by domestic and international factors, including production and supply dynamics, consumer demand, government policies, and trade agreements.
In the first quarter of 2023, Vietnam rice export price averaged 526 dollars per ton, showing a remarkable 7,6% year-on-year increase to become the world’s top rice exporter. This surge can be attributed to international factors such as global food supply disruptions and a higher demand for Vietnam’s high-quality rice.
2. How much is a kilo of rice in Vietnam currently?
In both Hanoi, the vibrant capital, and Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic hub, the price of rice is a key consideration for locals and visitors alike. Let’s explore the current prices of rice in these two major cities to gain a broader understanding of the cost of rice in Vietnam.
2.1. Specialty rice prices in Vietnam
Specialty rice can vary widely depending on the region and culinary traditions. Here are the detailed prices for some specialty rice in Vietnam:
| Name | Price (VND/kg) | Name | Price (VND/kg) |
| Gao huyet rong (dragon blood rice) | 40,000 | Gao tam thom (eight fragrant rice) | 19,500 |
| Red cargo rice | 40,000 | Gao Tai Nguyen Cho Dao (Tai Nguyen Dao Market rice) | 18,500 |
| Cambodian Jasmine rice | 28,000 | Jasmine rice | 18,000 |
| Gao Huong Sen (Lotus Scented rice) | 20,000 | Thai fragrant rice | 14,500 |
| Gao nang thom Cho Dao (Dao Market Special “Fragrant Girl” rice) | 19,500 | Gao 64 Cho Dao (Dao Market 64 rice) | 13,000 |
2.2. Price of rice in Vietnam for packed bags
Vietnam rice is commonly packed into 5- or 10-kilogram bags. However, smaller or larger packaging options may also be found in convenience stores to cater to a wide range of consumers.
| Name | Price (VND/kg) | Name | Price (VND/kg) |
| ST25 rice | 36,000 | Vibigaba sprouted rice (with black garlic) | 75,000 |
| ST24 rice | 35,000 | Vibigaba sprouted rice (with turmeric) | 70,000 |
| Long Chau 66 rice | 40,000 | Hat Ngoc Troi rice (Bac Dau) | 29,000 |
| Ngoc Sa Co May rice | 38,000 | Hat Ngoc Troi rice (Tien Nu) | 27,000 |
2.3. Glutinous rice prices in Vietnam
Glutinous rice is the second primary source of starch after plain rice. While plain rice is used for main courses, glutinous rice is used in many traditional dishes such as che (sweet soup), traditional cakes like Banh Chung, or even rice wine.
Among various types of glutinous rice in Vietnam, “Nep cai hoa vang”, which originates from the Northern region, is considered the highest-quality at present. A kilogram of this rice costs you around 31,200 VND.
2.4. Price of broken rice in Vietnam
Broken rice is well-known as the main ingredient for the famous com tam (Vietnamese broken rice) in Saigon’s cuisine. Although broken rice is naturally separated from whole-grain rice, it retains the same nutrition as regular rice. A kilogram of broken rice is just around 15,000 VND.
Kindly note that the prices of the 4 varieties of rice may change on a daily basis, as affected by various domestic and international factors discussed earlier. We recommend checking the latest prices in the Vietnam rice market before making any purchase decisions.
