19th october,2017 daily global regional local rice e newsletter

19th October,2017 Daily Global Regional local rice e-newsletter

Unedited Version

by Riceplus Magazine www.riceplusmagazine.blogspot.com

Contact: mujahid.riceplus@gmail.com

Pakistan offers lowest bid for Iraq’s rice tender Reuters October 18, 2017

HAMBURG: The lowest price offer in the tender from Iraq’s state grains buyer to purchase at least 30,000 tonnes of rice was $427 a tonne c&f free out for rice to be sourced from Pakistan, traders said on Tuesday.No decision about a purchase was believed to have been made in the tender, which closed on Tuesday with offers remaining valid up to Oct 22.The offer was made for 40,000 tonnes from Pakistan, they said. No other offers from Pakistan were reported.

This was followed by an offer of 40,000 tonnes rice from Thailand at $432 a tonne c&f. Other offers for Thai rice were made at prices between $447 to $485 a tonne c&f free out.The lowest offer for rice from the United States was around $653.5 a tonne for 30,000 tonnes. Another offer of US rice was made at $658 a tonne c&f.Indian rice was offered at $543 a tonne c&f free out with only one offer made.

Rice optionally from Argentina or Uruguay was offered at $572 a tonne. The lowest offer from Argentina only was $579 a tonne c&f and lowest from Uruguay only was $584 a tonne c&f.Volumes in Iraq’s tenders are nominal and the country can buy more than requested in the tender. In its last report tender on Aug 31, Iraq purchased a total of around 60,000 tonnes to be sourced from Pakistan and Uruguay. https://www.dawn.com/news/1364430/pakistan-offers-lowest-bid-for-iraqs-rice-tender

Pakistan investors seek trade deals in Kenya TUESDAY OCTOBER 17 2017

Kenya‟s High Commissioner to Pakistan Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok (centre) with Pakistan chamber of commerce officials in Islamabad. FILE PHOTO | NMG In Summary 

The investors who arrived in the country on Monday said their mission will take three days.

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Kenya and Pakistan enjoy friendly relations spanning several decades.

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Pakistan is currently the leading importer of Kenyan products and more than 80 per cent of the rice imported into Kenya comes from Pakistan.

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By BONFACE OTIENO More by this Author A delegation of Pakistan traders, including tycoons from Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), have pitched tent in Kenya in search of investment and trade deals.

The investors who arrived in the country on Monday said their mission will take three days.

“The 15-member Gujarat Chamber delegation led by their president Mr Abrar Saeed Sheikh will be in Kenya for three days, they will have roundtable business discussions with potential investors in the country as they scout for trade deals in agribusiness, leather, textile, jeweler, electrical appliances and furniture in the country,” said Kenya

National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chief executive Angela Ndambuki.

Ms Ndambuki said that during their stay in the country, the delegation from GCCI will also sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with KNCCI to promote trade between the two countries.

Kenya and Pakistan enjoy friendly relations spanning several decades.

Leading importer Pakistan is currently the leading importer of Kenyan products and more than 80 per cent of the rice imported into Kenya comes from Pakistan.

Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics shows that in 2016, Kenyaâ€&#x;s total exports to Pakistan dropped to $178.19 million from $186.87 million in 2015.

The total imports from Pakistan increased from $359.03 million in 2015 to $394.65 million in 2016.

The total volume of trade between the two countries stood at $572.84 million in 2016, in favour of Pakistan. http://www.nation.co.ke/business/Pakistan-investors-seek-trade-deals-in-Kenya/9964143606-dmwhwgz/index.html

Japan Officials Visit USA Rice Amid Strong U.S. Rice Sales

By Deborah Willenborg

ARLINGTON, VA -- Representatives of Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) visited USA Rice yesterday. MAFF is the sole purchaser of rice under Japan's import commitment to members of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

"We welcome MAFF's regular visits to USA Rice so that we can have an exchange of views on U.S.-Japan rice trade and discuss other topics of mutual interest," said USA Rice COO Bob Cummings.

MAFF regularly tenders for rice imports throughout the Japan fiscal year (April-March) in order to fulfill Japan's annual import commitment of 682,200 metric tons (milled basis) to WTO members. These tenders utilize two systems - minimum access and Simultaneous-Buy-Sell (SBS). Minimum access tenders account for the lion's share of Japan's imports, and purchases under SBS are passed through MAFF to end users, which are largely in the food service sector.

Japan has tendered for just under 225,000 MT of rice to date, and U.S. exporters have supplied nearly half of this amount. U.S. sales have been particularly strong in the SBS tenders, accounting for just over 70 percent of the 25,000 MT purchased.

"U.S. rice is especially competitive this year against domestic Japanese rice for food service use, and we believe U.S. rice will continue to enjoy success in SBS purchases this year," said Chris Crutchfield, a California rice miller and chairman of the USA Rice Asia/Turkey International Promotion Subcommittee. "We are confident that for the first time in a decade Japan will import the total annual allocation of 100,000 MT of rice under SBS." The Japan and U.S. governments are currently engaged in high level discussions as part of the U.S.-Japan Economic Dialogue which began following the withdrawal of the United States in January from the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement. USA Rice is supportive of this dialogue and sees this engagement, along with most of U.S. agriculture, as a vehicle to improve market access in Japan.

SWAT DEBUNKS NEGATIVE REPORTS ON ‘BELLA LUNA’ RICE

A major Liberian rice importer, Supply West Africa Traders (SWAT) has termed as ―slanted news,‖ report insinuating that a consignment of Bella Luna Indian Parboiled Long Grain Rice contaminated with harmful substance is headed to West Africa from an unknown destination.

The Chief Executive Officer of SWAT, George N. Nehme, has told journalists in Monrovia that information regarding the cereal grain is false, misleading and lacks any iota of true, indicating, ―this is something that constantly comes from our detractors who have attempted to undermined gains we have made in this country.‖

Chief Executive Officer Nehme used the opportunity to commend and gratify the Government and people of Liberia for a smooth and peaceful atmosphere afforded the company’s management since it resumed operation in Liberia.

From customers’ point of view, the cereal grain (Bella Luna Indian Parboiled Rice Long Grain 5% Broken) is one of the most widely consumed staple foods and is perceived as a top premium brand from a trusted rice dealer with several years of delivering dependable and consistent quality.

Sources in the business community have also acknowledged that the company has the capacity to supply rice on the Liberian market throughout the year with the quantity and quality of the product fit for the market and is always available and channeled through its many distributors and retailers throughout the country.

A top source at the Ministry of Commerce told the In Profile Daily Wednesday, October 18, 20 17, that the Bella Luna Brand has been tested both locally and internationally and is guaranteed to satisfy consumers’ needs, noting, ―they mostly prefer the cereal grain.‖ Meanwhile, according to Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in Liberia, Rice, at 248 average grams daily per capital, is the only important source of cereal carbohydrates in the Liberian diet.

It is noted that imported rice is the lion’s share of rice availability in Liberia, having gone up 75% since 2011, now comprising almost 70% of rice consumption.

The rice importing industry is consolidated as four importers control around 95% of all rice imports in the country.

http://inprofiledaily.com/index.php/2017/10/18/swat-debunks-negative-reports-on-bella-lunarice/ 

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Home Columns Agriculture LADA Commits US$2 million to Improve Food Security

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LADA Commits US$2 million to Improve Food Security By Judoemue Kollie October 19, 2017 0 138 Share on Facebook Tweet on Twitter

(L-R) Mrs. Watchen Bruce, and LADAâ€&#x;s Chief of Party, Willem Van Campen visiting the booth of Angie Howard, cassava processor.

The Deputy Chief of Party for Programs at the Liberia Agribusiness Development Activity (LADA), Watchen Harris Bruce has disclosed that her institution has

already committed over US$2 million from its US$3 million matching grant fund to help improve various agribusinesses in the country.

She made the disclosure last Monday during a program commemorating this year‟s World Food Day. World Food Day is celebrated globally every year to highlight food security challenges facing the world. The theme of this year‟s celebration was “Change the Future of Migration; Invest in Food Security and Rural Development.”

It was celebrated in Liberia by the Ministry of Agriculture and several development partners.

Mrs. Bruce said the innovative approach will attract over US$9 million in total to increase private sector investment that would improve the income of many smallholder farmers.

“These grants will serve as a vehicle for introducing new technologies and business models that once proven successful can be replicated by entrepreneurs without donor involvement in the future,” she stated.

She said further that her institution is currently finalizing the procurement of two integrated commercial scale rice mills for two rice milling enterprises in Voinjama and Foya Districts, Lofa County.

“We have also finalized the procurement of smaller scale commercial rice mills for two farmers cooperatives in Nimba County and expect to have them commissioned in January 2018,” she added.

According to Bruce, each of the large rice mills that will be assigned in Lofa has the capacity to produce 10 metric tons of high quality parboiled rice per day through automated processes to meet acceptable market standards that can compete with imported rice.

“The two smaller mills will produce 8 to 10 metric tons per day of properly polished and stone free milled rice. These interventions are expected to support Liberia in producing roughly 15,000 metric tons of good quality milled rice per year and develop a „Made in Liberia‟ brand,” she said.

The LADA deputy chief of party for programs mentioned that the goal is to reduce rice imports to below 30 percent by end of 2020.

She added that to improve the cassava value chain, LADA is procuring a high output commercial scale cassava processing equipment that will upgrade the processing capacity of four cassava processing enterprises in Bong, Montserrado, Nimba and Lofa counties.

“Four cassava processing enterprises‟ capacity will be upgraded to supply high quality cassava products to local consumers, restaurants and supermarkets,” she said.

Mrs. Bruce said to improve the vegetable value for increased income of smallholder farmers, LADA has ordered deep freezers, cold storage and a freezer truck for an aggregator who is working with smallholder farmers to develop quality fruits and vegetables for the local market.

“This is expected to improve the income of many smallholder vegetable farmers,” she stated.

“We are also working on the establishment of a post-harvest technology service center at the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI). The post-harvest technology service center will serve as a training and demonstration facility where smallholder farmer organizations, aggregators and agro-processors can physically see various post-harvest technologies and their application as well as acquire new knowledge and skills in post-harvest through site visits and practical demonstrations,” she disclosed.

Meanwhile, Bruce said plans are underway for her institution to upgrade the National Standards Laboratory at the Ministry of Commerce to meet international standards.

“This initiative will create increased market access for smallholder farmers for better income opportunity and enhance food safety,” she said.

LADA is a 5-year Feed the Future U.S Government initiative that aims to increase private sector investment in the Liberian agribusiness sector to improve the income of smallholder farmers in the rice, cassava, vegetables, cocoa and aquaculture value chains.

https://www.liberianobserver.com/news/lada-commits-us2-million-to-improve-food-security/

Rice output likely grew 13.9 percent in Q3–PSA By Jasper Y. Arcalas October 18, 2017

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Philippine palay production in the third quarter likely rose by 13.9 percent to 3.38 million metric tons (MMT), from last year’s 2.97 MMT, according to the latest report of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA’s latest palay output forecast for the July-to-September period was slightly higher than the 3.36 MMT it projected in August.

Data from the PSA showed that harvest area in the third quarter likely expanded by 14.31 percent to 851,758 hectares, from the 745,140 hectares recorded last year.

However, the PSA’s report, titled “Updates on July-September 2017 Palay and Corn” and published on October 18, showed that its latest forecast was lower than the 3.39 MMT it projected in July.

“The probable reduction in palay production may be attributed to rat infestation in Davao Sur and Cotabato; incidence of rice black bugs in Batangas, Davao Sur and Sultan Kudarat,” the report read.

The PSA added that it revised its forecast following reports that there were lodging of palay in Isabela caused by Typhoon Jolina and flash floods in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and North Cotabato.

The report noted that about 297,190 hectares, or 34.19 percent, of the standing crop for the July-to-September period have been harvested.

It added that around 1.602 million hectares, or 87.1 percent, of the farmers’ planting intentions for the fourth quarter have materialized.

“Of the [2.157 million] hectares standing palay crop, 26.1 percent were at vegetative stage; 55.5 percent at reproductive stage and 18.4 percent at maturing stage,” the PSA said.

The expected increase in the country’s paddy-rice output this year prompted the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) to revise downward its projection for Philippine rice imports to 1.1 MMT, from 1.6 MMT. In its earlier Global Agriculture Information Network report, FAS said Philippine rice harvest area in marketing year 2016-2017 could expand to 4.705 million hectares, 2.28 percent bigger than the FAS’s previous forecast of 4.6 million hectares.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/rice-outputlikely-grew-13-9-percent-in-q3-psa/Scientists Claim to Have Found Giant Rice Wednesday, 18 October 2017 | 14:39 WIB Share on Facebook Tweet on Twitter

New rice that can grow as high as 2.2 meters.

CHINA, NETRALNEWS.COM - Scientists introduced new types of rice crop that can grow as high as 2.2 meters or about seven feet.

They expect the 'giant rice' to feed more people as the yield could be 50 percent higher than ordinary rice, according to a report by China's People's Daily Online.

Experts from China said they have spent 10 years in research, which was inaugurated on October 16.

A team of researchers from the Institute of Sub-tropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has planted and harvested 'giant rice' on the trial grounds, according to People's Daily Online report, quoting the Xinhua News Agency on Wednesday (10/18/2017).

The experimental field is located in Jinjing Township in Changsha County, Hunan Province in central China.

Xia Xinjie, a researcher involved in the project, estimated the results of the 'giant rice' to surpass 11.5 tons per hectare. Xia said the yield per hectare is 50 percent more than ordinary rice.

Xia added that experts have harvested more than 500 grains of 'giant rice' stems.

This 'giant rice paddy' is considered to be very beneficial to China which faces the shortage of farmers and growing human population.

http://www.en.netralnews.com/news/currentn ews/read/13328/scientists.claim.to.have.found .giant.riceMining industry, supporters

rally opposition to Minnesota wild rice water quality rules    

By JOHN MYERS | Forum News Service

October 18, 2017 at 1:33 pm

DULUTH, Minn. — One week before public hearings begin on Minnesota’s proposed new rules for protecting wild rice from sulfate pollution, the state’s mining industry, Steelworkers and Iron Range officials and activists are restating their fervent opposition.

Critics say the new rule could cause increased regulation for taconite iron ore processing operations and some municipal sewage treatment plants.

If the new rules are applied and enforced, critics say it could cost millions of dollars for the mining companies to comply, spurring mine shutdowns and layoffs.

The Iron Mining Association of Minnesota, which represents the state’s mines and 150 companies that supply them, will be joined at a media event in Virginia on Thursday by the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools, the Iron Ore Alliance, United Steelworkers of America union leaders, local chambers of commerce, Jobs for Minnesotans, Better in our Back Yard and others opposed to the proposed wild rice sulfate standard that the groups say threatens the economic vitality of the region.

Several environmental groups also oppose the new rules — but that’s because they say they don’t go far enough to protect wild rice from industrial pollution.

Supporters of strong wild rice protection say the mines have long been given a free pass to release high levels of sulfate into local waters. It’s that sulfate, when converted to sulfides in the sediment on the bottoms of lakes and rivers, that scientists say damages wild rice. High levels of sulfate and thus sulfides render some areas uninhabitable for the wild plant that’s considered critical for wildlife and a key cultural food for the Ojibwe and other Minnesotans.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in August announced a new wild rice sulfate standard, years in the works, developed after an old standard was deemed too difficult for industry to meet. A law in place since 1973 limited sulfate pollution in waters that hold wild rice to 10 parts per million. But the PCA said that rule was too broad — that some water could handle more and some waters less sulfate.

The new rules will instead study the water chemistry of each wild rice lake and river to determine what sulfate level they could handle and still grow wild rice. The new rule, if enacted, will limit sulfides to 120 micrograms per liter.

There are about 1,300 lakes and rivers listed so far on the statewide list of wild rice waters About 350 of those wild-rice waters are downstream of industries that discharge sulfate and are the most likely to be affected by the changes.

Hearings are scheduled for:      

Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the state’s Harold E. Stassen Building, 600 N. Robert St. in St. Paul Tuesday from 4-9 p.m. in the Mesabi Range Community College Theater in Virginia Oct. 25 from 4-9 p.m. in the Beaux Arts Ballroom at Bemidji State University Oct. 26 from 3-7 p.m. in the Fond du Lac Community College Amphitheater, 2101 14th St. in Cloquet Oct. 30 from 4-9 p.m. in the Central Lakes Community College Cafeteria in Brainerd.

A statewide videoconference also is scheduled for Nov. 2.

Written comments on the wild rice sulfate plan will be accepted through Nov. 2 at minnesotaoah.granicusideas.com/discussions or mail to Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 64620, St. Paul, MN 55164-0620 (Docket 80-90030-34519).

http://www.twincities.com/2017/10/18/mining-industry-supporters-rally-opposition-tominnesota-wild-rice-water-quality-rules/g largely sidestepped the massive problems of herbicide-resistant pigweeds, Louisiana is largely an outlier in the Mid-South. That doesn‟t mean the state‟s growers aren‟t paying close attention to what‟s happening in neighboring states.

“Louisiana does have glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth and common waterhemp,” says Daniel Stephenson, LSU AgCenter weed scientist. “However, it‟s not at near the density or the widespread geographic footprint of areas like there is in Arkansas, the Bootheel, northern Mississippi and Tennessee.”

Related: 4 reasons for less pigweed in Tennessee cotton Most parishes where row crops are produced do have glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth or waterhemp, “but not severe infestations. However, northwest Louisiana has a significant infestation of resistant weeds that‟s steadily moving down the Red River. There are also pockets in northeast Louisiana with substantial amounts of Palmer amaranth.”

One thing that has Stephenson excited for Louisiana growers “is they‟ve really learned and paid attention to this problem and how to avoid it. They read the Delta Farm Press and those who travel to Arkansas and Mississippi see what pigweeds can do and come back and tell everyone else. That‟s led to a lot of growers to physically remove pigweed from the field. That‟s great.

“We‟ve also always used multiple modes of action for weed control in the state. That wasn‟t started specifically for pigweed control or resistance management but because the weed spectrum in the state requires it. Louisiana farmers can have six different broadleaf and four different grass weeds in a single field and only one herbicide just won‟t suffice, so tank-mixing is a must.

“Our guys also rotate crops – corn to cotton/soybean to corn with grain sorghum worked in somewhere – so crop rotation leads to herbicide rotation, as well. There is also a lot of tillage in Louisiana.

“So, if you look at the strategies to manage herbicide resistance, Louisiana growers have already used them simply out of necessity.”

More of a mix With sugarcane, ratoon rice and crawfish, Louisiana has some things in the cropping mix those farther north in the Mid-South don‟t. How do those figure in for Louisiana growers?

“Sugarcane is grown from Alexandria in the central part of the state down to the Gulf coast,” says Stephenson. “Rice is predominately produced in south Louisiana, but it is grown in north Louisiana also. They just don‟t have Palmer amaranth in great populations, although it‟s shown up in isolated fields.”

Glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth can be currently found “in areas dominated by corn, cotton, soybean, not in sugarcane/rice areas – row-crop areas that are similar to Arkansas. I do not have sugarcane or rice responsibilities, but I know Merrill‟s nightshade is quite troublesome in sugarcane.

“For rice, a big problem is most „weedy rice‟ which encompasses red rice, outcrosses, etc.

For both issues, LSU AgCenter weed scientists are figuring out how to control them.”

Xtend What about Xtend crops in 2017?

“I don‟t know the exact acreage, but know a lot of growers who planted Xtend crops just to see how they‟d do. They wanted to get a feel for how they‟ll do in our environments.”

As far as dicamba, “there wasn‟t much sold. There were only three official complaints regarding drift incidents. Now, I‟ve been told there was more drift but it was handled between growers.”

This was a positive year for activating herbicides, says Stephenson. “Pre-emergence or early post-emergence residual herbicide applications oftentimes received rain very soon after application, which worked out perfectly. Essentially, the residual herbicides worked just like planned in 2017.

“I‟ve asked many growers why they didn‟t use dicamba this year. Their first response is: „because the residuals worked.‟ “If we‟d been dry, would more dicamba have been used in our pigweed areas? Yes, quite possibly. However, we were very lucky this growing season to have the residuals work.”

Research What has Stephenson been studying?

“We‟re absolutely evaluating weed control programs in Xtend cotton and soybeans.

We‟re also studying Enlist cotton. The Enlist soybeans haven‟t been approved by China yet so our research has been under a „crop destruct‟ designation.

“But, yes, I‟m working on this and so is Dr. Donnie Miller, who‟s based in the northeast part of the state. At this point, we do not have enough information to recommend the use of the (Xtend) technology.”

Until the data is in hand, “we‟re staying neutral.”

Stephenson sees “Xtend, LibertyLink, Enlist, the old technologies, as tools. If there‟s a problem, you need the right tool whether you‟re trying to take a bolt off a machine or kill a weed. It‟s our job to study that tool and find its strengths and weaknesses, share that information with the growers and they can decide if they will use the tool. We stand on data. If a tool doesn‟t work as advertised, then we‟ll call a spade a spade. http://www.deltafarmpress.com/soybeans/louisiana-growers-keen-keep-pigweed-problemstamped-down

81st Annual International Rice Festival begins Thursday, Oct 19 Posted: Oct 18, 2017 5:17 PM PSTUpdated: Oct 18, 2017 5:17 PM PST

The 81st Annual International Rice Festival will kick off tomorrow, Thursday, October 19 and continue until Sunday, October 22 in Crowley.

The Rice Festival is rooted in tradition thanks to years of dedication from residents, organizers, and the City of Crowley. The festival was started in 1936 as way to celebrate the abundant rice harvest in the region and now honors those farmers and the industry that continues to make Crowley the state's "Rice Capital."

The weekend will see several events for those heading out to the festival. Attendees will be able to take in the full enjoyment of the festival with food, parades, musical entertainment, various contests such as Jr. King & Queen Contest, Rice Queen Contest, International Rice Eating Contest, Rice and Creole Cookery Contest, Accordion and Fiddle Contest, International Rice "Poker" Run, Classic Car Show, Rice Grading Contest, Rice Threshing Demonstration and 5K Run Walk, as well as a carnival for all ages.

For more information on the festival and the schedule of events visit their website at ricefestival.com or the festival's Facebook Page.

http://www.katc.com/story/36623984/81stannual-international-rice-festival-beginsthursday-oct-19Construction has begun on Willows rice straw plant

A forklift unloads bales of rice straw at the location west of Willows where a plant will be constructed to convert the straw into medium density fiberboard panels. Steve Schoonover — Enterprise-Record

By Laura Urseny, Chico Enterprise-Record POSTED: 10/17/17, 9:18 PM PDT | UPDATED: 1 DAY AGO

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Three huge piles of rice straw bales are growing in this photo from September at the site west of Willows where a plant will be built to convert the straw into medium density fiberboard panels.Steve Schoonover — Enterprise-Record Willows >> Work has begun on CalPlant 1 LLC, which will eventually be turning postharvest rice straw into fiberboard for furniture construction.

For weeks, truck after truck has been delivering baled rice straw to the plant site on Highway 162 west of Willows. After weighing, trucks deliver their load to one of many long rows of bales, which could number 20 or more for storage.

Plant owner CalAg cleared a portion of the 273-acre site to make way for storing the rice straw feedstock.

Construction on the $198 million project was expected to start in the fall, with a late 2018 or early 2019 launch of production. Knife River Construction of Chico is grading the site for the plant, which is the dream of founder, CEO and rice grower Jerry Uhland of Willows, who holds the patent for the fiberboard process using rice straw.

Stockpiling the rice straw feedstock is the current focus, according to chief operating officer Fran Eck. Roughly 80,000 tons is being collected this season, with 200,000 tons expected next year, he said.

Eck said, “We have a unique co-op like grower program. For years 2017-2019, growers pay $25/acre to have their straw baled and removed. The fourth year this service is free and the fifth year the companies anticipates establishing a profit-sharing pool that will pay growers for their straw.

“You can think of it as a partnership vesting period.”

CalAg has ordered the complete plant for rice-straw processing from Siempelkamp, which is based in Krefeld, Germany.

According to Siempelkamp‟s website, it will “plan, build, supply, install and start up the entire machine technology for the Willows location ...” The value of the plant was given at 75 million Euros, or about $88 million.

Several of Siempelkamp‟s subsidiaries will also be involved, including Pallmann, Buttner and CMC. The plant process includes removal of bale twine and well as straw shredder, a cleaning system to remove coarse pieces and dust. The project also includes two refiners to turn rice straw into fiber.

A natural gas fiber dryer will be used to clear moisture from the fiber.

At the core of the plant will be an energy efficient press, Siempelkamp noted.

Among the end users of the board will be Columbia Forest Products, “One of the largest U.S.-American suppliers of wood-based products and main purchaser of the fiberboards.”

Both Siempelkamp and Columbia are minor investors in the project.

The plant also includes sanding processes, plus stacking and storing.

According to Siempelkamp, CalAg will produce 200,000 cubic meters of fiberboard annually.

Contact reporter Laura Urseny at 896-7756.

http://www.chicoer.com/general-news/20171017/construction-has-begun-on-willows-rice-strawplant

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THURSDAY October, 19 2017        

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84% Rise in Rice Imports

1. Economy

2. Domestic Economy Thursday, October 19, 2017

84% Rise in Rice Imports

M

ore than 1.05 million tons of semi and wholly milled rice worth close to

$996 million were imported into Iran during the first half of the current Iranian year (March 21-Sept. 22), registering an 84.4% and 108.4% surge in weight and value respectively compared with the corresponding period of last year. The rice imports accounted for 6% and 4.2% of the volume and value of Iran’s overall imports respectively during the six-month period, Mizan Online reported. Imports are taking place while every year and during the rice harvest season, the government bans rice imports in support of local farmers and domestic production.

“The ongoing seasonal ban on rice imports will be in effect until Nov. 21,” Deputy Agriculture Minister Yazdan Seif recently said, noting that the ban went into effect in August.

Rice importers bypass the ban during the harvest season by receiving the import permit before the ban period. Deputy Agriculture Minister Abbas Keshavarz said nearly 2.3 million tons of rice have been produced in the country in the current crop year. Iranians annually consume 3 million tons of rice. The two northern provinces of Gilan and Mazandaran are home to a majority of Iran’s paddy fields

https://financialtribune.com/articles/economy -domestic-economy/74482/84-rise-in-riceimportsEU

SET TO BAN INDIAN BASMATI October 18, 2017 325 0 Share on Facebook

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Basmati rice could be banned in the new year

by LAUREN CODLING BASMATI rice could be banned in the UK from the new year if a resolution is not found over the use of a pesticide used by farmers in India.

Conservative MEP Syed Kamall warned last Sunday (15) of a price rise as well as a ―disastrous‖ impact on basmati farmers in India if the matter was not sorted out soon.

The controversy is over the use of tricyclazole pesticide after the EU commission ordered manufacturers to reduce the amount being used. The limit is due to be slashed from one milligram to 0.01 milligram per kilo, a hundredth of its current legal level.

India produces 60 per cent of the world’s basmati rice and accounts for 80 per cent of the EU’s imports, Kamall said.

Approximately 360,000 tons of the fragrant rice are imported each year by the EU, 150,000 of which come to Britain.

The fragrant rice could be banned in the UK if a resolution is not found (Pic: DESHAKALYAN CHOWDHURY/AFP/Getty Images) Earlier this summer, Indian government officials said they needed at least two crop cycles to adopt the new EU guidelines on tricyclazole.

However, if no resolution is found in the next few weeks, basmati from India could be banned in this country from as early as January 2018.

Kamall said: ―You don’t need a PhD in business and economics to realise that if you ban imports from a country that grows 60 per cent of the world’s basmati rice, the price will go up.

Conservative MEP Syed Kamall ―This could have a disastrous effect on farmers’ livelihoods in India – and at the same time we in Britain will end up paying more for our favourite rice.‖ A spokesperson for one of Britain’s leading rice brands told Eastern Eye on Tuesday (17) that the import of the distinctive long-grained fragrant rice was going to be ―tricky‖ in three months’ time. ―We have known about this issue for a long time and we have taken action accordingly,‖ the spokesperson said. ―The imports from India are going to be quite tricky from January 2018 and it’ll be very difficult to import basmati rice from India because of tricyclazole concerns.‖

The spokesperson added that there was uncertainty about revising the limits, although there was an expectation that the evaluation process by the EU commission and Food Safety Agency (FSA) could take up to 18 months. ―We are expecting the limits to be revised down in June 2019. That is a huge amount of issue for the trade because you have to either import basmati rice from India now or you can’t supply any basmati and you have to go depend on Pakistan – which increases the price for the product,‖ the spokesperson explained.

The spokesperson also confirmed that prices of rice would increase due to the interest and storage cost of reimporting the product from India in 2017 to then supply it in 2018 and 2019.

India is arguing that the new restrictions for the use of the pesticide, used to combat rice blast disease, are ―drastic‖ in contrast to other markets. In the US and Japan, the limits are 3mg/kg compared to the EU restrictions of 1mg/kg.

The Indian government said the limited time in which rules have been implemented is not enough for farmers to adapt their procedures.

Kamall called on the EU commission to delay the regulations, in order to make sure Indian farmers had time to make their crops conform, ―especially since no-one is seriously claiming that Indian basmati rice had suddenly become unsafe to eat‖.

Baroness Sheehan, a spokesperson on international development for the Liberal Democrats, said if the review concluded the measure should still be executed, enough time should be given to allow adaptation by Indian farmers.

She added that while the UK is still a member of the EU, asserting influence on the commission would be viable.

However, she went on: ―Once we leave, there will be very little we can do to support Indian farmers and ensure this is done properly‖ The Indian High Commission in London did not respond for a comment as Eastern Eye went to press.

Muneer Ahmad, first secretary from the Pakistan High Commission, confirmed to Eastern Eye that Pakistan exports of basmati rice are expected to increase in the EU markets.

Alex Waugh, the association secretary for UK Rice Association, said the issue has been under discussion for ―quite a long time‖. ―The government in India has been working hard to educate farmers and there has been quite a discussion over here on how to manage things,‖ he said.

A spokesperson at Indo European Foods Ltd confirmed that the company is taking necessary steps to ensure the product – Kohinoor basmati – they offer is ―compliant‖ with EU standards. ―The issue will not affect our company adversely,‖ the spokesperson said. ―We have always sourced basmati from both India and Pakistan and offer different products under different brands/labels in our portfolio. This strategy will continue.‖

Surya Foods managing director Harry Dulai said the news was ―great‖ as it ensured more diligence and care within the supply chain, as well as commenting consumers would not be subjected to high levels of pesticides.

Dulai also confirmed the pending EU regulation changes would have no bearing on the food chain. ―We fully endorse these changes for improvement on farming methods and a credible sustainability path across the supply chain for the safety of our customers,‖ he added.

In the summer, Indian grain exporters had previously raised concerns about the EU regulations and said the trade could shift to Pakistan.

Earlier this year, Gurnam Arora, Kohinoor Foods Joint managing director, was quoted in Indian media reports as saying that the EU norms are ―unjust, one-sided and not in the interest of farmers,‖ and raised concerns the trade would shift over to Pakistan, which does not use the pesticide on its rice supplies.

A joint statement from the European Commission following the 14th India-EU Summit in New Delhi on October 6 said: ―With regard to import tolerance level of tricyclazole in rice (Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/983) the relevant plant protection companies will be invited to present new scientific data in order for the European Food Safety Authority to carry out an additional risk assessment without delay. ―On this basis, the European Commission would expeditiously consider whether to review the above mentioned regulation.‖

Kamall said: ―Like most Brits I love a curry – and I like it with basmati rice. Nothing else is as aromatic and tasty. I don’t really think we need the EU banning imports because of scientific measurements rather than any overnight health concerns.‖

https://www.easterneye.eu/eu-set-ban-indianbasmati/LT Foods sets up ready-

to-heat organic rice plant in US LT Foods’ initial capex investment on the plant is $5 million and is expected to generate revenue of $21 million in the next 5 years PTI

The products would be launched under the company’s organic foods brand EcoLife. Photo: Pradeep Gaur/Mint

Mumbai: Leading basmati rice firm LT Foods on Wednesday said it has set up a ready-to-heat organic rice plant in US with an investment of $5 million.

“The initial capex investment on the plant is $5 million and expected to generate revenue of $21 million in next 5 years,” the company said in a statement. The products would be launched under the company‟s organic foods brand EcoLife.

The company, which sells basmati rice under the Daawat brand, added that the new plant would manufacture 20 million pouches of ready to heat organic rice pouches in the initial phase and expand it to 70 million pouches by 2018.

It expects to capture a market share of 8% in initial phase and increase to 1215% over the next 5 years.

The market size for ready to heat rice products in US currently stand at approximately $265 million and it is growing at 14% on year. The company‟s basmati rice brand „Royal‟ is already the largest brand in US with a market share of more than 40%.

“We already have a strong presence in US through our Basmati rice brand Royal and we will be leveraging our strong presence and experience to grow our US market even further,” LT Foods chief executive officer and managing director Ashwani Arora said.

“Convenient, ready to heat rice options appeal to millennials, who are more likely to eat away from home or to snack rather than have a sit-down meals.

We always closely observe changing consumer behaviour and we will keep launching new innovative products in line with consumer needs and preferences,” he added.

http://www.livemint.com/Industry/bWFumE S2vOiEm4UT5v8iaN/LT-Foods-sets-upreadytoheat-organic-rice-plant-in-

US.htmlRiceBran Technologies Set To Turn Lowly Rice Bran Into High Tech Growth Sector

Bruce Rogers , FORBES STAFF I'm Forbes' Chief Insights Officer & write about thought leadership.

RiceBran Technologies

Robert Smith, CEO, RiceBran Technologies A Series of Profiles of Thought Leaders Changing the Business Landscape: Robert Smith, CEO, RiceBran Technologies To understand what Robert Smith is up to at RiceBran Technologies, one must know a bit about rice bran. The world will produce about 480 million metric tons of rice in 2017. Much of this rice will be milled to remove the outer bran layers from the whole grain to produce white rice, which is

how most of the world consumes rice. In all, some 40 million metric tons of bran is produced as a byproduct. Much of it is sold as a low value animal feed or discarded, despite the fact that rice bran is high in protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber and vitamins. RiceBran Technologies wants to change that.

“Today, less than one percent of the rice bran produced globally is marketed as a food ingredient. At RiceBran Technologies, we aim to increase that percentage significantly by marketing the nutritional, functional and health benefits of stabilized rice bran,” says RiceBran Technologies CEO Robert Smith.

“The outside layers of brown rice represent only about 10 percent by weight of a grain of brown rice but contain much of the nutritional value.

However, because the bran turns rancid within hours of being milled, due to oil degrading enzymes that occur naturally in the grain, the bran is unpalatable and not suitable for manufacturing food products that require longer shelf-lives. Our Company uses its proprietary technology to stabilize the bran within minutes after it is milled. It’s then sold as a value-added, nutritious, clean-label ingredient for the food, companion pet and animal nutrition markets. This also benefits rice mills by providing additional outlets and premium value for their co-product.”

ADVERTISING inRead invented by Teads “RiceBran Technologies has opened up a large opportunity to transform a commodity co-product into a value added ingredient for food companies that are seeking to adopt novel ingredients to address consumer demands for minimally processed and “better-for-you” foods.

Considered a clean-label ingredient—non-GMO and free of all major allergens — stabilized rice bran offers food companies a naturally abundant and wholesome ingredient that can help reduce highly processed or synthetic ingredients.”

Part of RiceBran Technologies’ challenge is not only solving that technological barrier, but also educating consumers and food companies about rice bran’s availability and nutritional benefits. That’s where Smith’s science background has proved valuable. He is a scientist by training with a Ph.D. in molecular genetics and cell biology. “I'm not your traditional CEO,” says Smith with a laugh. “And I certainly did not approach it from the business world. I came at it from science and from overseeing operations. I'm really more of an ag/biotech person, more academic in that sense than a business-track CEO.” Recommended by Forbes

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“I learned about the opportunities at RiceBran Technologies about five years ago and was intrigued that this milling co-product was underappreciated. I came on board initially to provide technical support for Sales and Marketing and to oversee the development of new products.

From there, I transitioned into operations. And then, just over a year ago, I was elevated to the CEO role,” says Smith.

“To be fully adopted, stabilized rice bran will require some level of explanation to consumers and food companies — its origin, its benefits and its application in various products. My science background helps me articulate how companies can leverage the value of this ingredient to grow their business while delivering better-for-you products to their customer base is exciting and worth pursuing.”

His path to the company leadership wasn’t typical. A Midwesterner by birth, he lived outside the U.S. until he came back for college. “My childhood was a little different. My father worked for International Harvester, selling tractors and trucks for farming and construction. I grew up mostly in Europe and in South and Central America, and was always interested in biology.”

He studied biology at the University of Chicago as an undergrad, then stayed on to get his Ph.D. in molecular genetics and cell biology. From there, he did a post-doc in plant molecular biology at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. He then went to Rutgers University as an assistant research professor working on plant biology.

There he was recruited to join DeKalb Genetics, a major seed company where he led several research and development projects in major crops.

He then directed research and development programs at PhycoGen Inc. and Global Protein Products Inc. before joining Herbal Science Group, a leader in the development of evidence-based functional ingredients from botanicals, as head of Business Development.

“I was initially intrigued with the business potential of rice bran when I was overseeing a research project for NutraCea, which was the former name of RiceBran Technologies. Not only did I come to realize that rice bran was mostly unrecognized by food companies as a key nutritional ingredient but learned the overall benefits of this co-product in

supporting healthy nutrition. There is an abundance of valuable nutrients in rice bran. In addition to stabilizing the bran, we employ a patented process that combines the use of enzymes and separation technologies to produce value-added ingredients that command significant premiums because of their evidence-based health functionalities,” says Smith.

Prior to Smith taking the CEO reins, the company had raised a lot of capital that funded a number of acquisitions and investments that, in retrospect, were not core to what the company is about today. “Going forward, we’re refocused on stabilizing rice bran and making value added premium ingredients from rice bran,” says Smith. “We are divesting noncore assets, consolidating core operations in rice-growing regions of the country, and cutting out significant costs in the process. And in doing so, we are repairing our balance sheet and positioning our company for growth by securing additional bran supplies on the west coast and in the mid-south.”

The RiceBran team is looking to expand their presence in premium equine feed and companion pet markets, as food ingredients for major CPG companies for cereals, pastas, snacks, baked goods, and meats, and in premium ingredients in several health and wellness markets.

“Looking forward, we’re focused on delivering on executing our business plan. Our goal is to become the leading provider of rice bran ingredients to the food and animal nutrition markets and to keep developing the future generation of rice bran ingredients that ultimately provide the nutritional and health benefits consumers are seeking. We’re optimistic about our growth potential over the coming two or three years — it’s really just a matter of everybody being on the same page and pulling together to execute the plan,” says Smith.

Bruce H. Rogers is the co-author of the recently published book Profitable Brilliance: How Professional Service Firms Become Thought Leaders

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucerogers/2017/10/12/ricebran-technologies-set-to-turn-lowlyrice-bran-into-high-tech-growth-sector/#4a2c11426cd8Vietnam masters rice-seed

production technology VietNamNet Bridge - Vietnam can control up to 70.5 percent of seed production technology, with 90 percent for purebred rice and 66 percent for hybrid rice.

The figures were released by Pham Ngoc Ly, deputy general director of Vinaseed (Vietnam National Seed Corporation), who presided over the research project which assessed the current situation, technological capability and demand for technology renovation in hybrid rice breeding in the north and central coastal areas.

The project is part of the national program on technology renovation by 2020, one of the science & technology programs implemented by the Ministry of Science & Technology (MST). “Vietnam can master the rice seed production technology. However, while the production of purebred seeds can satisfy domestic demand, the production of hybrid seeds can meet only 33 percent of the demand. The other 67 percent must be fed by imports from China and India,� Ly said.

A survey of 17 companies in the north and the central coastal provinces found that only Vinaseed and Thai Binh Seed have modern drying, processing and packaging systems. Vinaseed can produce 30,000 tons of rice seeds a year, while Thai Binh Seeds 15,000 tons.

The high quality machines are imported from Germany and Denmark.

Vietnam can control up to 70.5 percent of seed production technology,

with 90 percent for purebred rice and 66 percent for hybrid rice.

The majority of other companies run with simple drying, processing and packaging system, churning out 5,000-7,000 tons a year.

At the meeting with agricultural scientists held recently by the Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development (MARD), Prof Tran Dinh Long, chair of the Vietnam Seed Association, said Vietnamese are proud to be a big exporter of 12 farm produce items. However, Vietnamese can only pocket a modest amount of money.

“The export turnover is about $3 billion a year, while the cost is up to $2.9 billion,” he said, adding that the money is spent on pesticides, fertilizers and seeds.

Scientists have urged acceleration of the protection of plant varieties, considering this an important solution to help develop new varieties.

According to MARD, vegetable & fruit exports brought $1.7 billion in the first six months of 2017, making up 18.6 percent of total value of major farm export items, surpassing rice to become the second largest farm export item, just behind coffee.

However, according to the Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO), in 2004-2016, the number of applications for plant protection titles in the sector just accounted for 13.7 percent of total applications, including the applications from foreign subjects.

The same situation can be seen in the coffee industry.

PVPO said there have been only 15 applications for protection for plant varieties which do not belong to the group including rice, maize, short-term industrial crops, vegetables, flowers and fruit.

1.

INDYEATS

HOW TO MAKE MUSHROOM PILAU RICE MasterChef winner's alternative to mushroom risotto 

a day ago 1 CLICK TO FOLLOW INDY/LIFE

"The first time I made this was for a vegetarian friend who complained that every time she went to a dinner party she was given mushroom risotto, said MasterChef 2010 winner Dhruv Baker.

"I am delighted to say that she loved the flavours of the earthy mushrooms along with the wonderful spices – as far from an average mushroom risotto as you could imagine," he added.

How to make Mushroom pilau rice Ingredients             

250g basmati rice 6 tbsp vegetable oil 6 green cardamom pods 2 cinnamon sticks 10 cloves 2 bay leaves 1 onion, thinly sliced 125g white mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped ½ tbsp. salt 500ml water Small pinch of saffron 2-3 tbsp flaked almonds (optional)

Method Start by rinsing the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside in a sieve to allow as much water as possible to drain off.

Heat half the oil in a large pan and add the cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, cloves and bay leaves; stir for 1 minute. Add half the sliced onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the mushrooms and garlic and fry for another 10 minutes.

Add the rice and salt and stir until the rice is well coated in the oil. Add the water and bring to the boil.

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After about 4-5 minutes much of the water will have evaporated. Stir in the saffron strands, cover and reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a pan and fry the remaining onion slices until golden brown. Remove from the pan and drain on kitchen paper.

To serve, scatter the fried onion over the top of the pilau along with the flaked almonds, if using.

Tilda is once again partnering with the World Food Programme and donating a meal for every bag of Pure Basmati Dry (5kg, 1kg) and TSB sold in the UK to new and expectant mums in Bangladesh.

To support the campaign, a host of personalities have donated recipes to create the Mums Helping Mums cookbook, which can be downloaded http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/how-to-make-mushroom-pilau-ricea8006856.htmlRice

basmati rises on festive demand

New Delhi, Oct 18 PTI) Rice basmati prices advanced by another Rs 100 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today on the back of rising demand from retailers. However, other grains held steady in a thin trade.

Traders said besides surging demand from retailers, short supplies kept rice basmati prices higher. Rice basmati common and Pusa -1121 variety advanced by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,300-7,400 and Rs 6,000-6,100 per quintal respectively. Following are today's quotations (in Rs per quintal): Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,100-2,350, Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,785-1,790, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,795-1,800, Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour mill Rs 960-970 (50 kg), Maida Rs 990-1,000 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080 (50 kg). Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs 10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common new Rs 7,300-7,400, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,000-6,100, Permal raw Rs 2,200-2,225, Permal wand Rs 2,250-2,275, Sela Rs 2,300-2,400 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,850-1,875, Bajra Rs 1,180-1,185, Jowar yellow Rs 1,400-1,450, white Rs 2,800-2,900, Maize Rs 1,280- 1,285, Barley Rs 1,435-1,445.

Author Name: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/rice-basmati-rises-on-festive-demand/1170129 Date: 18-Oct-2017

Rice basmati rises on festive demand New Delhi, Oct 18 PTI) Rice basmati prices advanced by another Rs 100 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today on the back of rising demand from retailers. However, other grains held steady in a thin trade.

Traders said besides surging demand from retailers, short supplies kept rice basmati prices higher. Rice basmati common and Pusa -1121 variety advanced by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,300-7,400 and Rs 6,000-6,100 per

quintal respectively. Following are today's quotations (in Rs per quintal): Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,100-2,350, Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,785-1,790, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,795-1,800, Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour mill Rs 960-970 (50 kg), Maida Rs 990-1,000 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080 (50 kg). Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs 10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common new Rs 7,300-7,400, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,000-6,100, Permal raw Rs 2,200-2,225, Permal wand Rs 2,250-2,275, Sela Rs 2,300-2,400 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,850-1,875, Bajra Rs 1,180-1,185, Jowar yellow Rs 1,400-1,450, white Rs 2,800-2,900, Maize Rs 1,280- 1,285, Barley Rs 1,435-1,445.

Author Name: https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/rice-basmati-rises-on-festive-demand/1170129 Date: 18-Oct-2017

Rice output likely grew 13.9 percent in Q3–PSA By Jasper Y. Arcalas October 18, 2017

 

Philippine palay production in the third quarter likely rose by 13.9 percent to 3.38 million metric tons (MMT), from last year’s 2.97 MMT, according to the latest report of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA’s latest palay output forecast for the July-to-September period was slightly higher than the 3.36 MMT it projected in August.

Data from the PSA showed that harvest area in the third quarter likely expanded by 14.31 percent to 851,758 hectares, from the 745,140 hectares recorded last year.

However, the PSA’s report, titled “Updates on July-September 2017 Palay and Corn” and published on October 18, showed that its latest forecast was lower than the 3.39 MMT it projected in July.

“The probable reduction in palay production may be attributed to rat infestation in Davao Sur and Cotabato; incidence of rice black bugs in Batangas, Davao Sur and Sultan Kudarat,” the report read.

The PSA added that it revised its forecast following reports that there were lodging of palay in Isabela caused by Typhoon Jolina and flash floods in Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and North Cotabato.

The report noted that about 297,190 hectares, or 34.19 percent, of the standing crop for the July-to-September period have been harvested.

It added that around 1.602 million hectares, or 87.1 percent, of the farmers’ planting intentions for the fourth quarter have materialized.

“Of the [2.157 million] hectares standing palay crop, 26.1 percent were at vegetative stage; 55.5 percent at reproductive stage and 18.4 percent at maturing stage,” the PSA said.

The expected increase in the country’s paddy-rice output this year prompted the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) to revise downward its projection for Philippine rice imports to 1.1 MMT, from 1.6 MMT. In its earlier Global Agriculture Information Network report, FAS said Philippine rice harvest area in marketing year 2016-2017 could expand to 4.705 million hectares, 2.28 percent bigger than the FAS’s previous forecast of 4.6 million hectares. https://businessmirror.com.ph/rice-output-likely-grew-13-9-percent-in-q3-psa/

Vietnam rice industry should focus on quality: experts Wednesday, 10/18/2017, 16:32 Vietnamese rice producers and exporters should focus on quality and supplying products that are in demand to sustain the production and export of the grain and add value to the grain, heard a meeting in Ho Chi Minh City on October 17.

Speaking at the meeting held to discuss Vietnam’s Rice Market Development Strategy from 2017 to 2020, Phan Van Chinh, head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s import-export department, said the global rice market had seen changes, with major importing countries increasing domestic production.

“Free trade agreements theoretically create opportunities for Vietnam to boost exports to these markets, but to do so Vietnamese rice must meet the quality standards set by these markets.”

To achieve sustainable production and export, the Government has approved a strategy for the 2017–20 period.

Tran Xuan Long of the import-export department said one of the goals of the strategy was to gradually reduce rice export volume but increase value.

Between 2021 and 2030 the annual volume is expected to be around four million tonnes, earning US$2.3 billion - 2.5 billion. The make-up of the exports would also be restructured then, with a focus on increasing the export of fragrant, speciality, japonica and high-grade white rice, he said.

Vietnam would focus on Asian and African markets, with China, Bangladesh and ASEAN members such as the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia remaining key markets.

Huynh Minh Hue, general secretary of the Vietnam Food Association, said the main varieties of rice traded in global markets are basmati, parboil, fragrant, white broken rice, sticky rice, japonica, and white long-grain rice.

Vietnam is well placed in terms of sticky rice, fragrant, white broken rice, and white long-grain rice, he said.

He said rice traders should “capitalise on their advantages to develop nearby and traditional markets whose demands dovetail with Vietnam’s conditions.�

To improve the competitiveness of rice traders, which is one of the measures in the strategy, businesses should focus on improving quality and marketing and cut costs, he said.

Rice traders and exporters should establish links with farmers to ensure supply meets market demand and efficiency, he said.

Pham Thai Binh, general director of Trung An Hi-tech Farming JSC, said rice traders who have contracted farmers that use safe production processes have bagged export orders from the beginning.

The country should have zoning plans for each variety of rice based on soil conditions in different areas and use technology to improve the quality and value, he said.

Delegates at the meeting called on the Government to speed up negotiations and sign agreements on hygiene and food safety standards with importing countries.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development should decide on and apprise exporters about the process of quality inspection and hygiene and food safety regulations in line with those agreements, they said.

Relevant agencies should review seaport planning and speed up loading and unloading of goods at ports to reduce logistics costs, they said.

They called for cooperation among traders in promoting exports.

According to the VFA, Vietnam is expected to export 5.6 million tones of rice this year.

http://english.vov.vn/economy/vietnam-rice-industry-should-focus-on-quality-experts360605.vov

Vietnam targets US$2.5 billion in rice export revenues by 2030 Tuesday, 2017-10-17 10:19:03 Font Size: | Print

Font Size:

|

NDO - The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) has set the target of raising Vietnam’s rice export revenues to between US$2.3 and 2.5 billion by 2030.

The target was announced at a conference on realising Vietnam’s rice export strategy during the 2017-2020 period, with a view towards 2030.

Under the strategy, Vietnam will gradually reduce its rice export volumes whilst increasing the proportion of high-earning varieties, with the annual volume for the 2017-2020 period targeted at 4.5-5 million tonnes and shrinking to 4 million tonnes by 2030.

Specifically, low and medium-quality white rice will not exceed 20% of the total export volume by 2020, while high-quality white rice accounts for approximately 25%, fragrant, speciality and Japonica rice around 30% and glutinous rice 20%.

By 2030, fragrant, speciality and Japonica rice will make up 40% of Vietnam’s rice export volume,

with

glutinous

rice

at

25%

and

other

nutritious

rice

at

over

10%.

According to the delegates at the conference, in order to achieve this target, Vietnam needs to deal with a number of issues that are currently plaguing Vietnam’s rice industry.

At present, Vietnam’s rice export growth is heavily skewed towards volume growth, rice farming is not linked to the market demand and exports are highly dependent on a number of markets.

In addition, Vietnam’s rice exporters have not been able to build well-known brands or meet the market’s diverse demands.

At the conference, the delegates discussed a number of solutions, such as re-organising production and post-harvest processing and storage, building national rice brands, strengthening international cooperation and enhancing the capacity of domestic rice traders.

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Most Recent Newshttp://en.nhandan.com.vn/business/item/5575002vietnam-targets-us$2-5-billion-in-rice-export-revenues-by2030.html

October 18, 2017

Rice exports remain strong Chea Vannak / Khmer Times Share:

Cambodia’s fragant rice is considered one of the best in the world. KT/Chor Sokunthea

The country’s main association of rice producers recently announced new limits on the use of the fungicide Tricyclazole – which came into effect late September – and which have had virtually no effect on the country’s rice exports, arguing awareness campaigns aimed at farmers have been highly effective.

Hun Lak, the vice-president of the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF), said the new directive regarding the use of Tricyclazole is already in effect and that stakeholders in the rice sector have done a good job of spreading the word among the nation’s farmers about the new limitations on the use of the chemical. ―It hasn’t been a problem to limit the use of the fungicide because we have educated farmers on the use of the chemical,‖ Mr Lak said. ―Anyway, it wasn’t a big issue because Cambodia was never too reliant on chemical fertilizers,‖ he added.

The European Union said in March that Cambodia must eradicate the use of the fungicide on its milled rice it exports to the European market. The new EU directive demands milled rice does not contain more than 0.01 milligram of the chemical per kilogram of grain.

Hean Vanhan, the director-general of the general directorate of agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture, told Khmer Times in October that efforts to increase awareness on the new limits on the use of Tricyclazole have been highly successful. ―The farmers now understood the ban, and as we are complying with EU regulations, we don’t face any problems in this regard,‖ Mr Vanhan said.

Meanwhile, according to Mr Lak, the EU has encouraged Cambodia to increase its exports of milled fragrant rice to the European market. ―Although exports of milled rice to the EU have remained almost unchanged for the first nine months of the year compared to last year, we hope that exports will accelerate by the end of the year and for the years to come,‖ Mr Lak said. ―The EU wants Cambodia to export fragrant rice because demand for this product is high and doesn’t compete with varieties grown locally in countries like Spain and Italy.‖ As of September this year, Cambodia exported some 422,000 tonnes of milled rice to international markets, a 16.7 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Of this, 209,000 tonnes was shipped to the EU, nearly a 50 percent increase over the same period last year.

http://www.khmertimeskh.com/5086691/riceexports-remain-strong/100,000 tons of

parboiled rice to come from India in January  

Asif Showkat Kallol Published at 11:26 PM October 17, 2017

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Last updated at 12:32 AM October 19, 2017

The total amount of rice will be imported at a cost of Tk 377.65 crore – each ton costing $455 or Tk37,487       

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68SHARES

The government has decided to import 100,000 tons of parboiled rice from India to meet the growing domestic demand created by crop losses in recent floods.

The cabinet committee on public purchase approved the purchase on Wednesday A Food Ministry official said Bangladesh will buy that total amount of rice at a cost of Tk 377.65 crore – each ton costing $455 or Tk37,487. The rice will be imported under government-to-government (G2G) basis.

The rice will be supplied by Project and Equipment Corporation of India Ltd, under the Indian Commerce Ministry.

After the meeting , Additional Secretary of Cabinet Division Md Mostafizur Rahman told reporters the rice would be purchased for $455 dollar per ton and the total cost will stand at Tk377.65cr.

―We hope that the rice will reach Bangladesh within January next year,‖ he said.

The Food Ministry official said that this price is Tk823 higher than the rice imported from Myanmar.

The 100,000 tons rice import will be the first of its kind arrangement between Bangladesh and India in recent years. India on September 3 had decided to export around 500,000 tons of parboiled rice to create a buffer stock.

According to the Food Ministry proposal, the India government’s authorised agro cooperative National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) will export the rice to Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is currently facing a shortfall of 1.5 million tons of rice due to heavy crop losses during the recent flooding in different districts across the country. After the floods, around 150,000 tons of rice has been exported to Bangladesh by private traders from India until now.

Amid strained relations with Myanmar over the Rohingya refugee crisis, last week the cabinet committee on public purchase had also approved the Food Ministry’s deal on procuring of 100,000 tons of rice – each ton costing $442 or Tk36,416 – from Myanmar in a bid to bring down the prices in local markets.

http://www.dhakatribune.com/business/commerce/2017/10/17/bangladesh-import-100000-tonsboiled-rice-india/THE

NEWS SCROLL18 OCTOBER 2017 Last Updated at 2:57 PM

Rice basmati rises on festive demand New Delhi, Oct 18 PTI) Rice basmati prices advanced by another Rs 100 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today on the back of rising demand from retailers.

However, other grains held steady in a thin trade.

Traders said besides surging demand from retailers, short supplies kept rice basmati prices higher.

Rice basmati common and Pusa -1121 variety advanced by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,3007,400 and Rs 6,000-6,100 per quintal respectively.

Following are today's quotations (in Rs per quintal): Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,100-2,350, Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,785-1,790, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,795-1,800, Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour mill Rs 960-970 (50 kg), Maida Rs 990-1,000 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080 (50 kg).

Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs 10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common new Rs 7,300-7,400, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,000-6,100, Permal raw Rs 2,200-2,225, Permal wand Rs 2,250-2,275, Sela Rs 2,300-2,400 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,850-1,875, Bajra Rs 1,180-1,185, Jowar yellow Rs 1,400-1,450, white Rs 2,800-2,900, Maize Rs 1,280- 1,285, Barley Rs 1,435-1,445 https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/rice-basmati-rises-on-festive-demand/1170129The

Rain Impact

The Rain Impact A late-season surge in monsoon rain may help rabi crops, but the real impact on farmers will depend on remunerative pricing.

In a country like India that depends heavily on rain-fed irrigation, the southwest monsoon has always been critical for the agriculture sector. Conditions were relatively favourable this year (June-September 2017), leading to a cumulative rainfall that was only 5 per cent below the long-period average or LPA. Most parts of the country received normal-to-surplus rainfall while the regions with deficient monsoon rain - Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Madhya Pradesh (MP) - could fall back on the irrigation network. However, excess rain over the period and consequently, floods, led to huge crop loss in several states, including Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan. There came a hint of the possible outcome on September 25 when the Ministry of Agriculture released the first advance estimates of major kharif crop harvest. According to government estimates, total foodgrain output in the 2017/18 kharif season is likely to reach 134.67 million tonnes compared to last year's 138.52 million tonnes, a dip of 2.8 per cent. Rice production is likely to fall by 1.91 million tonnes; production of maize may go down by 0.52 million tonnes; oilseed production could be lower by 1.72 million tonnes, a 7.7 per cent drop from last year's 22.40 million tonnes, and pulses may fall by 0.72 million tonnes. So far, sugarcane is the only crop likely to witness a significant growth - an estimated 337.69 million tonnes against last year's 306.72 million tonnes.

Former agriculture secretary Siraj Hussain is hopeful, though. According to him, the late revival of monsoon rain in the southern states is good news for farmers as better residual moisture will help them at the time of sowing rabi crops. "As for Punjab, Haryana and Western UP, the rainfall had been lower than average.

So the residual moisture would also be lower for the rabi season. These regions have adequate irrigation facilities, but it also means farmers will have to spend more to avail those.

Although the rabi crops may do well, income could be adversely affected depending on total production," he adds. Hussain says (better) production makes more sense when seen in connection with the overall impact it will have on consumer-end prices, leading to higher price realisation. While it is too early to predict retail prices, higher production does not necessarily ensure proportionate benefits for Indian farmers. "I have just been to Kota mandi (wholesale market for agro products) and found that soybean production is higher than last year. But prices continue to be lower than the minimum support price fixed by the government and no procurement has started," he says. The bottom line: Governments cannot do much to control monsoons or natural disasters. But they can play a key role to make sure the prices farmers get would keep them in business in the long run. The real challenge here is to ascertain how farmers may get remunerative pricing.

Author Name: http://www.businesstoday.in/magazine/focus/the-rain-impact/story/262126.html

Date: 18-Oct-2017

Thailand: Thai rice price up 15% this year on high demand The Thai Rice Exporters Association has indicated a 15 percent increase in the average price of Thai rice this year due mainly to high demand among importers. Pol Lt Charoen Laothamatas, President of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, reported that the Kingdom has exported more than 8.2 million tons of rice since the beginning of this year. Given the export volume during the last three months is projected to be around 900,000 tons monthly, the president said the association has set the yearly export target at 10.8 million tons, which is close to the Commerce Ministry's figure of 11 million. Mr Charoen added that most mill houses currently do not have any grains left in stock, resulting in a surge in demand overseas as well as the price of Thai rice. Compared to last year, the price has gone up by 15 percent; however, it is still on par with the rates of competitors. Although some rice plantations in Thailand have been damaged by recent floods, the high precipitation this year is expected to help boost the country's rice output by about 10 percent.

Author Name: http://www.blackseagrain.net/novosti/thailand-thai-rice-price-up-15-this-year-on-highdemand

Rice exports remain strong The country’s main association of rice producers recently announced new limits on the use of the fungicide Tricyclazole – which came into effect late September – and which have had virtually no effect on the country’s rice exports, arguing awareness campaigns aimed at farmers have been highly effective.

Hun Lak, the vice-president of the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF), said the new directive regarding the use of Tricyclazole is already in effect and that stakeholders in the rice sector have done a good job of spreading the word among the nation’s farmers about the new limitations on the use of the chemical.

“It hasn’t been a problem to limit the use of the fungicide because we have educated farmers on the use of the chemical,” Mr Lak said.

“Anyway, it wasn’t a big issue because Cambodia was never too reliant on chemical fertilizers,” he added.

The European Union said in March that Cambodia must eradicate the use of the fungicide on its milled rice it exports to the European market. The new EU directive demands milled rice does not contain more than 0.01 milligram of the chemical per kilogram of grain.

Hean Vanhan, the director-general of the general directorate of agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture, told Khmer Times in October that efforts to increase awareness on the new limits on the use of Tricyclazole have been highly successful.

“The farmers now understood the ban, and as we are complying with EU regulations, we don’t face any problems in this regard,” Mr Vanhan said.

Meanwhile, according to Mr Lak, the EU has encouraged Cambodia to increase its exports of milled fragrant rice to the European market.

“Although exports of milled rice to the EU have remained almost unchanged for the first nine months of the year compared to last year, we hope that exports will accelerate by the end of the year and for the years to come,” Mr Lak said.

“The EU wants Cambodia to export fragrant rice because demand for this product is high and doesn’t compete with varieties grown locally in countries like Spain and Italy.”

As of September this year, Cambodia exported some 422,000 tonnes of milled rice to international markets, a 16.7 percent increase compared with the same period last year. Of this, 209,000 tonnes was shipped to the EU, nearly a 50 percent increase over the same period last year.

Author Name: http://www.khmertimeskh.com/5086691/rice-exports-remain-strong/ Date: 18-Oct-2017

Inflation creeps up on rice price hike Inflation accelerated for the second consecutive month in September thanks to the rise in food prices backed by the staple rice. Last month, inflation stood at 6.12 percent, up 23 basis points from August, according to data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. Planning Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal yesterday released the inflation data of the last two months but did not give a breakdown of food and non-food inflation -- both of which were departures from previous practice. On May 16, Kamal had announced that the government will make public the Consumer Price Index data on a quarterly basis instead of the global standard practice of monthly reporting -- a move that gave rise to an air of suspense surrounding the release of inflation statistics.

True to his word, his next release of inflation data, which came in July, was on a quarterly basis -- for the April-June quarter -- but he went back to monthly reporting the following month, disclosing the figure for July.

Inflation declined for the first time in eight months in July: it stood at 5.57 percent, 0.3 percentage point lower than the previous month. In September, there was radio silence from both the planning minister and the BBS on inflation figures. Yesterday, he disclosed two months' numbers at once. Kamal said inflation will come down gradually from next month. “Inflation rose slightly as rice production was hampered due to heavy rainfall and floods. People had apprehended that there would be a price spiral but that did not happen.” By the end of the year, inflation will get back to within the target, he added. Many analysts said the chaotic inflation reporting comes from the government's wish to mask the rising prices of rice, a staple food item in Bangladesh and thereby plays an important role in determining inflation. In recent months, rice prices rose to record highs, reflecting the dwindling supplies following flood-induced losses to the main boro crop in 2017

coupled with reduced production and imports in 2016. About 20 lakh tonnes of boro crop have been damaged, according to the food ministry. Yesterday, coarse rice price went up 24.32 percent from a year earlier to Tk 44-48 a kg, according to data from the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh, which tracks the prices of several items in Dhaka city. The prices of all other varieties of the staple went up between 22 percent and 29 percent in the last one year. In the latest monetary policy unveiled in July, the central bank said the food price uptrend caused by the flash flood in the last quarter of fiscal 2016-17 in the haor regions poses risks of inflation. The fiscal 2017-18's monetary programme of the central bank seeks to set a prudent, flexible course towards containing the 12-month average CPI inflation within 5.5 percent. Inflation is expected to be above 6 percent in June 2018, according to the BB's latest inflation expectation survey. The central bank's projection shows the average annual inflation for the first half of the fiscal year would be 5.55.9 percent. “Looking ahead, given the domestic inflation dynamics, food price developments and tapering base effects, some price pressures may emerge during fiscal 2017-18 and will need to be monitored and contained carefully,� said the monetary policy statement of the BB. Author Name: http://www.thedailystar.net/business/inflation-creeps-rice-price-hike-1477918 Date: 18-Oct-2017