Investigating rice value chain research: a science mapping

As a principal food crop globally, particularly for Asians, rice remains an interesting and growing topic for interdisciplinary, policy-relevant, and impactful research. This study aimed to identify literature development and scientific mapping in rice value chain studies. This study used secondary data in the form of peer-reviewed journal articles related to the rice value chain, with a total of 126 documents obtained from the Scopus database as of April 2, 2025. Data were analyzed using bibliometric analysis incorporating an enhanced strategic diagram and thematic evolution mapping. Results showed that rice value chain research topics are divided into five clusters: (1) farmers' adaptation and market dynamics, (2) technological innovation and value chain efficiency, (3) value chain governance, (4) food security and policy, and (5) consumer behavior and sustainability. The results also showed that the emerging topics of rice value chain research are developing toward a more multidimensional and integrated approach focused on technology integration, sustainable practices, climate change response, digital transformation, gender inclusivity, multi-stakeholder partnerships, nutrition impact, environmental resilience, and a deeper understanding of consumer preferences. The results provide insights into research gaps and offer new research opportunities for the future sustainable, resilient, equitable, and inclusive rice value chain.