Vietnamese rice variety Ong Cua ST25 has once again claimed the prestigious title of World’s Best Rice, marking its third consecutive victory after previous wins in 2019 and 2023. The achievement was announced at the 17th Annual World Rice Conference, hosted by U.S. publication The Rice Trader in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from November 7 to 9. This year, ST25 shared the top honor with Cambodia’s phka romdoul, a variety that has previously secured the title seven times.
The success of ST25 is the result of decades of dedicated research, selection, and breeding efforts led by Ho Quang Cua, the scientist after whom the variety is named. His team has worked tirelessly to develop high-quality rice strains under the ST brand since the 1990s. ST25 was created by combining several rice varieties, each contributing unique characteristics that have been inherited by the final product.
Ho Quang Cua (center, R), lead engineer behind the Ong Cua ST25 rice variety, receives a trophy for the World’s Best Rice 2025 title in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photo acquired by VnExpress
ST25 is known for its long, translucent grains that lack a chalky core. When cooked, it has a moderate level of stickiness and emits fragrances reminiscent of pandan and young green rice. Its flavor is rich and sweet, making it highly appealing to both local consumers and international culinary experts.
One of the standout features of ST25 is its ability to retain tenderness and distinct aroma even when cooled. These qualities have contributed to its growing popularity in various markets around the world. According to Ho Quang Cua, the recognition helps strengthen the “High-Quality Vietnamese Rice” brand, opening doors to more demanding markets such as the United States, Japan, Europe, and Australia.
The World’s Best Rice competition, which has been held annually since 2009, serves as an important platform for identifying emerging trends and directions in the global rice market. It brings together industry professionals, researchers, and consumers to celebrate excellence in rice production and quality.
Vietnam first won the top prize in 2019, marking a significant milestone for the country’s agricultural sector. Since then, the nation has continued to make strides in rice innovation and quality control, reinforcing its position as a leading producer of premium rice varieties.
The recent win for ST25 highlights not only the scientific expertise of Vietnamese researchers but also the country’s growing influence in the global rice trade. As demand for high-quality rice continues to rise, varieties like ST25 are playing a key role in shaping the future of rice consumption worldwide.
In addition to its commercial appeal, ST25 has also gained attention for its potential in sustainable agriculture. Its resilience and adaptability make it suitable for cultivation in different regions, contributing to food security and economic development in rice-producing areas.
With ongoing research and development, the future of Vietnamese rice looks promising. Varieties like ST25 are setting new standards for quality, taste, and versatility, ensuring that Vietnam remains a major player in the global rice industry.