About Us
Founded by Jeremy Zwinger in 2002, The International Commodity Institute is the umbrella organization that serves to offer clients an integrated media source that connects all critical aspects of the world rice industry. The institute brings together in-depth market reports and analysis (The Rice Trader publications), trade networking (World Rice Conference and other Events), expounding in various media (Weekly Direct TV Interviews), working with international producers of commodities (Farm & Trade), helping entities with global consulting, and international recognition for achievements and contributions to the global rice industry (World’s Best Rice Award and The Rice Trader Lifetime Achievement Award).
From farm to fork, from research to destination, the rice industry will be able to utilize the tools offered by the International Commodities Institute for insights and the ability to understand short, medium, and long term industry consequences, interpret market dynamics into commercial success…
Testimonials About The rice trader
Mr. Vikram Sadiya
Director Agrisea Group of Dubai
“For the past eight years, AgriSea has consistently found immense value in its sponsorship and active participation in The Rice Trader’s World Rice Conference. The annual event has proven to be a cornerstone for AgriSea’s growth within the global rice industry, providing a platform to cultivate lasting connections and foster crucial business relationships. The conferences serve as an invaluable opportunity to network with industry leaders, explore emerging trends, and ultimately, expand our global reach. AgriSea highly recommends both The Rice Trader Report and the World Rice Conference to anyone seeking to thrive in this dynamic market, as we eagerly anticipate each year’s event.”
Tran Quang Vu
Strategy & International Markets Ho Quang Tri Private Enterprise
“The World’s Best Rice award, presented at the World Rice Conference, has been instrumental in shaping our journey. Our wins in 2019 and 2023 helped bring Vietnam’s ST25 rice to the forefront of the global market — a recognition that translated into trust, demand, and lasting partnerships. But beyond the accolades, what we value most is TRT’s unwavering emphasis on integrity. In an industry as competitive and diverse as rice, TRT has built a platform that champions fairness, credibility, and genuine excellence. We’re proud to be part of this global community.”
INTERNATIONAL CLIENT
Every year, the buzz of anticipation builds across our office as the calendar flips to the moment we’ll join the world’s premier gathering of rice professionals: The Rice Trader’s International Conference. Being not just a participant but a past winner, we’ve witnessed firsthand how TRT transforms a simple meeting into a powerhouse of industry insight, market intelligence, and genuine connection. The conference shines a spotlight on the global rice landscape, delivering critical data and fresh perspectives that directly fuel our strategy and growth. As proud clients, sponsors, and collaborators with the TRT brokering team, we cherish the partnerships forged on those bustling exhibition floors and look forward to many more years of shared success. Thank you, TRT—here’s to the next chapter of innovation and collaboration!
Executive Summary
April 6th, 2026:
Easter is a time of peace and hope, which is a prayer we have for all in this key time of redemption. The U.S. is going back to the moon, which should have been news since we have not seen a push here for 50 years. So much has changed so quickly in March that it is tough for anyone in the rice market to manage, and risk remains very high. Oil has run to over $111 per barrel (PB), and this has just added to the wild / cost filled world we are all living in. Of odd interest, many countries are trying to get special deals and work out a way for them to get through or help negotiate the opening of the Strait. This is giving Iran a second wind, and it is almost ironic that by threat, they are gaining political influence. Making special deals with Iran to make sure your vessels do not have to fear meeting an Iranian missile close up has been one of the key concerns of the day. I would bet few knew where the Strait of Hormuz was or that it really even existed until last month, but it surely is a topic of all countries now. We call prices this week FLAT to Mixed at Thai 5% was still quoted at $365 PMT, while Vietnam moved up to $365 PMT as well. India was the key, with prices slipping down to $335 PMT for 5%, and this caused some level of panic.
As a last note, we strongly suggest a detailed look at our publicly expanded vessel intelligence list in Section 16, which we feel is a real help to our clients in seeing what competitors and customers are doing.
Thought of the week
Thought of the week: Easter & Hope ….
“The great gift of Easter is hope.”
— @ Basil Hume —
