Thai mango sticky rice prices to stay in 2025

The research indicates mango prices are declining for the second consecutive year due to increased production and slowing domestic consumption, while other ingredient costs continue to rise.

Price Trends and Market FactorsMango sticky rice, a popular Thai summer dessert featuring sweet Nam Dok Mai mangoes paired with coconut-infused sticky rice, continues to face pricing pressures despite its popularity.

According to Kasikorn Research Center report on March 14, 2025, Nam Dok Mai mango prices at the farm level are projected to be around 16.3 baht (48 cents) per kilogram in 2025, down 8.5% from 17.9 baht (53 cents) in 2024. This marks the second year of price decline from the 2023 high of 21.3 baht per kilogram.

Two key factors are driving mango price reductions:

- A 9% increase in Nam Dok Mai mango production in major growing regions due to favorable weather conditions (approximately 70% of production reaches markets between March and May)

- Slowing domestic consumption, including reduced demand from both Thai consumers and foreign tourists at restaurants and street food vendors.

Rising Costs Offsetting Cheaper MangoesDespite cheaper mangoes, other ingredients and operational costs continue to rise:

Main Ingredients (representing 70% of total costs):

Sticky rice: up 1.4%White coconut meat (for coconut milk): up 71.4%Sugar: price controlled at 21 baht (62 cent) per kilogramOther Expenses:

Rental space/stall fees: remaining highLabor costs: increasing 2.9% in 2025Packaging materials (boxes, spoons, zip-lock bags): remaining high.

Consumer Impact and Popularity

Kasikorn Research Center predicts consumers will pay around 138 baht ($4.10) per serving in 2025, similar to or slightly higher than 2024 prices.

Despite price concerns, mango sticky rice remains highly popular. Nam Dok Mai mango is a renowned Thai Geographical Indication (GI) product known for its quality and is increasingly available in restaurants. The dessert was ranked second globally in “Best Rice Puddings” in 2024 and is listed among the world’s top 50 most popular desserts.