- Paddy rice refers to the unmilled form of rice harvested from fields, which serves as a primary food source for over half the global population. It is processed through milling to produce white or brown rice used in households, foodservice, and industrial applications
- The demand for paddy rice is primarily driven by its role as a dietary staple in Asia-Pacific, increasing consumer shift toward health-conscious rice varieties, government support for food security, and continuous innovations in seed genetics and crop protection technologies
- Asia-Pacific dominated the paddy rice market with a share of over 90% in 2024, due to favorable climatic conditions, widespread cultivation, and high per capita rice consumption across densely populated countries
- North America is expected to be the fastest growing region in the paddy rice market with a share of during the forecast period due to the rising demand for ethnic cuisines, gluten-free foods, and clean-label products
- High carbohydrates segment dominated the market with a market share of 68.6% in 2024, due to the essential energy needs fulfilled by carbohydrate-rich staples, particularly in emerging economies where rice is a dietary cornerstone. High-carb paddy rice varieties are extensively cultivated and consumed due to their cost-effectiveness, shelf stability, and capacity to serve as a primary caloric source for billions
