Southeast Asia is more than the heartland of global rice production. It’s a living laboratory where culinary heritage meets agricultural excellence. From the aromati Thai Hom Mali to the globally celebrated ST25 from Vietnam, the region produces some of the world’s most sought – after rice varieties. These cultivars don’t just feed millions; they define national identities and represent decades of breeding innovation.
1. Thai Hom Mali (Jasmine) Rice
Known internationally as Jasmine rice, Thai Hom Mali features long, translucent grains releasing a delicate floral fragrance and a light, fluffy texture when cooked. Native to Thailand’s northeastern provinces, it commands premium prices in global markets. Its moderate amylose content (12%–18%) ensures grains remain separate yet tender. Hom Mali’s productivity averages 4–5 t/ha under irrigated conditions, and improved lines now approach 6 t/ha with optimized fertilizer regimes.
With its moderate amylose content and consistently high market demand, Hom Mali is a staple export product on Freshdi.com
2. IR64 (Philippines)
Developed by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in 1985, IR64 combinied high yield (8–9 t/ha) with excellent cooking quality. It possesses intermediate amylose content and gelatinization temperature, delivering firm, non-sticky grains favored by consumers. IR64’s disease resistance – against blast and brown planthopper – and early maturity (≈117 days) facilitated rapid adoption across tropical Asia, where it was cultivated on over 10 million ha at its peak.
3. ST25 (Vietnam)
Awarded “World’s Best Rice,” ST25 emerged from Vietnam’s Sóc Trăng province after a decade of breeding. It yields 6–7 t/ha and features long, clear grains with a distinctive pineapple-like aroma. Cooked ST25 remains soft and chewy even when cooled, factors contributing to its acclaim. Its high protein content also boosts nutritional value, making it a flagship for Vietnam’s rice exports.
ST25 is among the most demanded Vietnamese varieties on Freshdi.com B2B rice marketplace, ideal for gourmet food brands and premium distributors.
4. ST24 (Vietnam)
A predecessor to ST25, ST24 earned fame for its tropical-fruit fragrance and balanced texture. With yields of 5.5–6 t/ha, it helped establish Vietnam’s reputation for aromatic rice. Though slightly less acclaimed than ST25, ST24 continues to command strong demand in China and Europe, where its pandan-like scent and glossy grains satisfy discerning buyers.
5. Phka Rumduol (Cambodia)
Phka Rumduol, Cambodia’s emblematic fragrant rice, boasts slender golden grains and a subtle floral aroma reminiscent of the national flower. Grown primarily in the Tonle Sap floodplain, it yields 4–5 t/ha under traditional systems. Its delicate taste and supple texture have earned Geographical Indication protection, elevating Cambodian rice on the global stage.
6. Sen Kro Oub (Cambodia)
Also known as Cambodian Fragrant Rice, Sen Kro Oub shares Hom Mali’s soft texture and gentle scent but exhibits greater resilience to local flooding. It delivers 4–6 t/ha in irrigated paddies and can be double-cropped. Its adaptability and consistent quality make it a staple for both domestic consumption and niche export markets.
These varieties illustrate Southeast Asia’s dual commitment to culinary excellence and agronomic productivity. From Hom Mali’s iconic aroma to IR64’s revolutionary yield and ST25’s world-beating quality, they represent the region’s leadership in rice innovation. As breeding programs advance and climate-smart practices spread, Southeast Asia will continue to set global benchmarks for delicious, high-yield rice.
At Freshdi.com, verified rice suppliers from Southeast Asia connect directly with global buyers seeking premium, high-yield rice. Whether you’re a food distributor, importer, or agri-food brand, understanding these iconic varieties can help you source smarter and trade more confidently.
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