21st march, 2018 daily global regional local rice e newsletter by DAILY RICE NEWS LETTER

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News Detail… Bennigan’s Signs Multi-Location Agreement To Expand Into The Islamic Republic Of Pakistan March 19, 2018 ·

Master franchising agreement is latest bold move in brand’s global expansion Dallas, TX (RestaurantNews.com) Bennigan‘s has long been one of the most popular American restaurant brands across the globe. Its focus on chef-driven food, innovative drinks and friendly Irish hospitality has helped it stand apart from other concepts that have come and gone over the years. On St. Patrick‘s Day, Bennigan‘s – the largest Irish-themed casual dining brand in the U.S. – executed a Master Franchise Agreement with Baila Group of Companies to open four locations in all the major cities of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The first of these locations is expected to open within a year‘s time in Punjab, Pakistan.

The current plan is to expand into the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, but the Baila Group of Companies is also looking into the growth and demand of bringing Bennigan‘s into other central Asian markets. ―We are confident that Bennigan‘s will be enthusiastically embraced in Pakistan,‖ said Junaid Parvez, Deputy Managing Director of Baila Group of Companies. ―We chose to franchise with Bennigan‘s for a variety of reasons. Bennigan‘s has an impressive history of success internationally thanks to its distinct atmosphere, architecture, and the food is truly phenomenal. The brand has a very compelling ROI and offers a world class level of support and training. Possibly the biggest reason for why we chose Bennigan‘s was because of the heartwarming memories that I cherish from frequently visiting Bennigan‘s when I was a child. We want to share those memorable experiences with everyone in Pakistan.‖ The Baila Group of Companies is based in Sialkot, Pakistan. Its main business includes agriculture, rice processing and export, and ceremonial halls. The owners of the Baila Group also have a prominent presence in the construction industry of the state of Qatar. ―The Pakistani market is limitless,‖ said Parvez Iqbal, Managing Director of Baila Group of Companies. ―And all of us Pakistani‘s that are oversees have an obligation to show the Pakistani people what the world has to offer.‖ The menu in the new restaurants will be strict to Pakistani culture and religion. The entire menu will be Halal; pork and alcohol will not be offered. ―We simply couldn‘t ask for a better franchise partner than Junaid to introduce our brand to Pakistan,‖ said Paul Mangiamele, Bennigan‘s President & CEO. ―Bennigan‘s is one of the few American brands that is just as popular overseas as it is at home. That‘s because of extraordinary franchisees like Junaid who have a passion for ‗bleeding green‘ and understands the importance of delivering memorable dining experiences to every guest, every meal, every day.‖ The chef-driven neighborhood restaurant chain renowned for its generous portions and Irish hospitality is redefining casual dining across the United States and in locations throughout Mexico, Central America, Asia and the Middle East. Since the end of 2012, the company has opened new franchise locations in Clarksburg and Frederick, Md.; Sacramento, Calif.; Melbourne, Fla., Lexington, Ky.; Veracruz, Mexico; Larnaca, Cyprus; Obarrio, Panama; Doha, Qatar; Dubai, UAE; and a corporate location in Panama City, Fla. Additional restaurants are planned for Florida, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina; and internationally in Mexico, Central America, Bahrain, Australia and India. For your nearest location, menu, hours and additional information, visit Bennigans.com. You’re with friends at Bennigan’s. The American Legend! About Bennigan’s

Bennigan‘s is a high-energy neighborhood restaurant and tavern that is redefining casual dining. With chef-driven food and warm, friendly Irish Hospitality, this Legendary brand delivers memorable dining experiences to every guest, every meal, every day. Every member of the team ―bleeds green‖ and demonstrates a 25/8 focus to support its franchise community. Bennigan‘s focus on reinvention, flexible prototypes, innovative food, Legendary service and other salesgenerating initiatives has resulted in explosive growth both domestically and internationally. For more information, visit www.bennigans.com or call 855-GOT-BENN. Contact: Ladd Biro Champion Management 972-930-9933 lbiro@championmgt.com www.championmgt.com http://www.restaurantnews.com/bennigans-signs-multi-location-agreement-to-expand-into-theislamic-republic-of-pakistan-031918/

Cambodia thanks Australia for agriculture support Sok Chan / Khmer Times

Local farmer working in a lettuce garden. KT/Mai Vireak

Cambodia reiterated the important role Australia plays in the development of its agriculture sector and urged leaders of the Commonwealth nation to support the modernisation of the industry through investments in modern factories and machinery. Speaking at the Asean-Australia Business Summit last week in Sydney, Cambodian Commerce Minister Pan Sorasak praised Australia‘s agricultural prowess and acknowledged their support in helping Cambodia‘s agriculture industry develop. He said the Cambodian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Cardi) is an Australian initiative that has been pivotal in creating the high-quality, award-winning rice Cambodia is now able to produce. ―Other areas that Australia could help us in the future include the modernisation of our agriculture sector by investing in modern rice milling facilities, processing factories and equipment,‖ Mr Sorasak said. Ouk Makara, director of Cardi, said Australia continues to support his institution through research programmes. He said there are now 15 projects that receive funding from Australia, most of them focusing on research on different varieties of rice, agricultural techniques, as well as land preparation, management and mapping. ―Australia supports both development and agricultural research,‖ Mr Makara said. ―For research programmes, they also support and fund us through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. ―Our cooperation with Australia in agriculture is strong. They support us in human capital development and through research programmes,‖ he said. Jayant Menon, lead economist at the Asian Development Bank, told Khmer Times that Australia has one of the most efficient agricultural sectors in the world; one that thrives with minimal government support, unlike in the European Union or the US. ―There is a lot that Cambodian agriculture can learn through greater cooperation with Australia. This comes at a time where Australia is looking to further strengthen ties with Cambodia, having just hosted the special summit in Sydney over the weekend,‖ Mr Menon said. He added that Australia is a vast country, subject to frequent droughts, and has expertise in areas such as irrigation that it could share with Cambodia. He said the Australian government is already doing this through various programmes, but more support will be required in the future as extreme weather conditions become more common. ―Australia is also supporting the United Nation‘ multi-donor initiative on de-mining, which would eventually reduce a serious risk factor in the rural sector, and increase land available for agriculture,‖ he added.

The Australian government last week agreed to give Cambodia nearly $68 million in development grants. Around the same time, Prime Minister Hun Sen spoke in Sydney in front of a crow made up of members of the Cambodia diaspora and thanked the Australian government for their continuing support to the development of the kingdom.

Health Canada gives all clear for Golden Rice By AGDAILY Reporters Published: March 19, 2018 Follow AGDAILY After a thorough scientific assessment, the Canadian government has ruled that Golden Rice poses no greater risk to human health than rice varieties currently available on the Canadian market. Golden Rice is the name of a rice that has been genetically modified to produce beta-carotene, which the body can convert into vitamin A. This beta-carotene gives the rice grains the yellowish color that has inspired its name. In 2017, Health Canada received a submission to allow the sale of Golden Rice, aka Provitamin A Biofortified Rice Event GR2E. In order to determine whether this rice variety could be sold in Canada as food, the scientists at Health Canada conducted a scientific assessment that ensured that GR2E rice is safe for consumption, that the increased provitamin A levels posed no risk to Canadian consumers, and that it still had all its nutritional value. Scientists with expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, toxicology, chemistry, and nutrition conducted a thorough analysis of the data and the protocols provided by the applicant to ensure the validity of the results. Following this assessment, it was determined that the changes made in this rice variety did not pose a greater risk to human health than rice varieties currently available on the Canadian market. In addition, Health Canada also concluded that GR2E would have no impact on allergies, and that there were no differences in the nutritional value of GR2E compared to other traditional rice varieties available for consumption except for increased levels of provitamin A. While this news is a positive step forward for Golden Rice, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has indicated that this product is not intended to be sold in Canada at this time https://www.agdaily.com/news/health-canada-golden-rice/.

Rice a valuable commodity for Arkansas and you March 20th, 2018by Carla Haley Hadley Arkansas is home to more than 2,500 rice farms and is the top producer of rice in the United States. Arkansas' rice farmers plant an average of 1.3 million acres of rice and harvest over 200 million bushels yielding roughly 9 million pounds of rice each year. Rice is the state's second-highest-value commodity and its top agricultural export. According to the 2017 Arkansas Agricultural Statistics Service, rice farmers harvested over 1 million acres and yielded 7,490 pounds per acre. That made the value of production or sales at $950,406,000. That significantly benefits our economy, contributing billions to the state's economy. Rice is the primary dietary staple for more than half the world's population. This grain is nutrient-rich, supplying energy, complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, beneficial antioxidants and more than 15 vitamins and minerals including folic acid, potassium, magnesium, B vitamins, selenium, fiber, iron and zinc. It is also a "free" food being naturally free of sodium, cholesterol and gluten. Packed with whole grain goodness, one cup of brown, wild, red or black rice provides two of the three recommended daily servings of whole grains. Long grain white rice provides 205 calories, 0 total fat, 4 g protein, 45 g total carbohydrates, less than 1 mg dietary fiber and 2 mg of sodium. Long grain brown rice contains 216 calories, 1.8 g total fat, 5 g protein, 45 g total carbohydrates, 3.5 g dietary fiber, 10 mg sodium. The fiber is naturally higher in the long grain brown rice. Brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it contains all parts of the grain, including the fibrous bran, the nutritious germ and the carb-rich endosperm. Whereas white rice has had the bran and germ removed, which are the most nutritious parts of the grain. Cooking rice is easy, but does take time. Start by rinsing the rice until the water runs clear. For every cup of rice you are cooking, add one and one-half cups water. Bring the rice to a boil, uncovered, at medium heat. When boiling, turn the heat down to medium low. Place the lid on the pot, keeping it tilted to allow steam to escape. When you can see holes or craters in

the rice, put the lid on tight. Turn the heat to low and simmer for another 15 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve. For best results, use long grain rice. If you want your rice extra fluffy, try soaking it in cold water for about 30 to 60 minutes prior to cooking. Be sure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear so that the rice will not be sticky because of too much starch. Always choose a saucepan with a very heavy bottom. Adding broth instead of all or part of the water will add flavor to the rice, while lemon slices, ginger slices, herbs or spices will add variety. Remember that older rice can lose some of its moisture, requiring more water and a longer cooking time than fresh rice. Pay attention to how long you keep rice in the cupboard. Cook extra rice for other meals in the week. For more information, contact the Miller County Extension Office, 870-779-3609 or visit us in room 215 at the Miller County Courthouse. We're online at chadley@uaex.edu, on Facebook at UAEXMillerCountyFCS/CarlaDue, on Twitter @MillerCountyFCS or on the web at uaex.edu/Miller. This stir fry recipe can be made with any cut of meat and is quick and easy. The meal is great as leftovers, so is good for meal planning for the week.

STIR FRY 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 pound lean beef, pork or chicken cut into thin strips 1 small onion, cut into strips 1 green pepper, cut into strips 2 cups fresh or frozen cut vegetables (such as carrots, cauliflower, snap peas, broccoli) 6 cups cooked rice, hot

STIR-FRY SAUCE 2 tablespoons cornstarch Dash black pepper 1 1/2 cups cool water 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce

Directions for stir fry sauce: Combine cornstarch and cool water. Mix well with a whisk or fork. Stir in remaining ingredients. The cornstarch will settle to the bottom, so stir again before adding sauce to stir fry. To make stir-fry: Place stir-fry pan, wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When oil and pan are hot, add the meat; cook until the meat is thoroughly browned. Remove meat from the pan. Add fresh vegetables and continue to stir until vegetables are tender. Add the cooked beef back to the pan. Pour sauce into skillet with stir fry. Cook until sauce bubbles. Spoon stir-fry mixture over cooked rice. Nutrition Information per serving (Makes 6 servings) Information figured on using top sirloin steak. Calories 410, Total Fat 8 g, Saturated Fat 2 g, Protein 19 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Fiber 6 g,| Sodium 120 mg Carla Haley Hadley is a county extension agent, family and consumer sciences, with the Miller County Extension Service, part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/features/story/2018/mar/20/rice-valuable-commodity-arkansasand-you/718362/

Wheat imports rising in the Philippines March 20, 2018 - by Arvin Donley

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Demand for milling and feed wheat in the Philippines is expected to increase in 2018-19 due to considerable investments in the domestic flour and feed milling industries, according to a March 19 Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.The report said wheat imports are expected to increase 550,000 tonnes to 5.75 million tonnes, driven mainly by growing feed demand. This growing demand also is expected to increase corn imports by 200,000 tonnes to 700,000 tonnes. Rice imports are likely to decline 300,000 tonnes to 1 million tonnes in 2018-19 due to increasing production and shifting dietary preferences toward wheat and protein, the report said. There is no commercial wheat production in the Philippines, but there are 20 flour mills in the country with an aggregate milling capacity of over 5 million tonnes, the GAIN report said. ―Milling wheat demand is poised to increase modestly in 2018-19 due to economic growth and the increasing Philippine population,‖ the report said. It added that ―feed wheat consumption is expected to increase 2.5 million tonnes in 2018-19 due to firm animal feed demand from an expanding livestock sector and a lower price relative to feed corn.‖As of December 2016, there were 486 feed mills registered with the Philippine Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) with a total capacity over 27,000 tonnes per eight-hour shift, the report said, quoting industry sources. About 60% of the registered feed mills in 2016 were classified as small-scale producers (less than 25 tonnes per eight-hour shift). Only 15% produced more than 100 tonnes per eight-hour shift, according to the report. The most recent Alltech Global Feed Survey estimates annual feed production in the country at more than 17 million tonnes. http://www.worldgrain.com/articles/news_home/World_Grain_News/2018/03/Wheat_imports_rising_in_the_Ph.aspx?ID= {ECEDD528-DBC7-4A31-BEE7-607322CEAD2C}

Pakistan to export 100 tons hybrid rice seeds for first time in April

LAHORE: Pakistan is all set to export the first ever consignment of 100 tons heat-tolerant rice seeds to the Philippines next month, a senior industry official said – a shipment that is longawaited since the country begun experimenting hybrid technology over a decade back.―The first ever consignment of 100 tons high-yielding hybrid rice seed is expected to be exported to the Philippines in April, which will be sufficient to cultivate about 15,000 acres of land,‖ Shahzad Ali Malik, chief executive officer (CEO) of hybrid seed company Guard Agricultural Research and Services told journalists early this week.

The success of Pakistani scientists in developing prime rice seed varieties was a result of partnership with Chinese researchers, led by Yuan Longping, in 2004 after development of hybrid seed breeding technique across the coastal belt of Sindh. The country was expecting to ship the maiden consignment of hybrid rice seeds last year, but it was delayed because officials said it takes a long process from harvesting and grading to regulatory procedures before such seed gets ready for the plantation. Malik said as the hybrid seed is produced in harsh weather of coastal belt it is suitable for plantation in changing climate of China and other Far Eastern countries of Asia, offering lucrative exports market. ―India can also take huge benefits from this seed technology.‖ Guard Agricultural Research‘s chief, while talking about climate change and its impact on agroecosystems, said the need to develop heat-tolerant and drought-resistant hybrid rice seed varieties becomes immensely important due to climate change. Production of premium quality seed by the private sector is a big achievement as public sector institutions or multinationals monopolise the seed development. Malik said his company also carried out hybrid rice trials for seed multiplication in South-Central districts of Punjab. ―The step would prove very beneficial in increasing area of hybrid rice in Punjab by offering low cost of production to growers,‖ he added. ―Consequently, production of hybrid rice varieties would lead to opening of more export avenues, a win-win situation for researchers, farmers and the economy.‖ Hybrid seed varieties, being cultivated in Sindh coastal belt, have a very healthy production capacity of seven to eight tons/hectare. One of the varieties has strong roots and stem systems, enhancing its endurance against high winds. Chinese researchers are also helping their Pakistan counterparts to introduce super-hi hybrid variety of rice with 18 tons/hectare yield potential. Philippines, one of the world‘s biggest rice producers and importers, is facing invariable import supplies, keeping the country at the risk of food shortages. Introduction of hybrid seed on vast

scale is seen as a solution to the problem. The south east Asian nation‘s rice crop season would start during the next month. It wants to increase area under hybrid rice cultivation to 30 percent. Only high-yielding hybrid rice varieties could help in tremendously increasing yields without increasing acreage, achieving vertical growth potential. In the recent years, even Thailand and some other major producers had to import rice to meet its demand mainly due to inconsistent performance of agriculture due to multiple factors. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/294944-pakistan-to-export-100-tons-hybrid-rice-seeds-for-first-timein-april

More evidence to support whole grain-rich diet from new research Wednesday March 21, 2018 08:52 AM GMT+8

Eating a diet rich in whole grains can bring multiple health benefits according to new research. — id-art/Istock.com pic via AFP

BOSTON, March 21 — New US research adds to the growing body of evidence that a diet rich in whole grains can have a beneficial effect on health, finding that the grains can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce blood sugar levels, and increase calorie (energy) use. Carried out by scientists from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA), jointly run by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, the study looked at 81 participants over an eight-week period to compare the effect of a diet free from whole grains to one rich in whole grains. The researchers measured the weights and calorie (energy) intake needs of the participants, who were all healthy, non-smoking men and women ages 40 to 65, and put everyone on a whole grain-free diet. In week two of the study some participants were switched onto a diet that included the daily recommended allowance of whole grains — a minimum of three ounces for women and four ounces for men.

During the eight weeks the researchers recorded the participants' insulin and blood sugar levels, resting metabolic rates (energy expenditures while sedentary), and how well they stuck to either diet. The results showed that participants in the whole-grain group lost around 100 more calories per day than those in the group eating refined grains â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the equivalent of walking briskly for 30minutes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; possibly due to whole grains increasing metabolic rate and increasing energy loss through faeces. In a tandem study carried out by HNRCA's Nutritional Immunology Lab, researchers also found that a whole grain rich diet had a beneficial effect on gut microbiota, inflammation, and immune defence. The team pointed out that the whole grain diet followed in the study included products made from whole grain flour and only one type of grain and that consuming intact whole grain kernels rather than flour, or a mixture of grains, may bring even greater benefits.

Whole-grain foods include whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, barley, rye, and brown or wild rice. Unlike refined grains such as white rice and white flour, whole grains do not have their nutrients stripped away through processing and are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbohydrates, and phytonutrients. The findings can be found published online in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; AFP-Relaxnews http://www.themalaymailonline.com/features/article/more-evidence-to-support-whole-grain-rich-dietfrom-new-research

Overseas USA Rice Partners with Importers to Boost Sales, Foster Relationships By Eszter Somogyi

HAMBURG, GERMANY -- USA Rice conducts more than 2,700 promotional activities in almost 25 countries each year to support the sales of U.S. rice abroad. Rice industry funds help augment the money received from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program to conduct these activities, and an excellent indicator of the activities' effectiveness is the willingness of local brands to also contribute their own funds to the efforts. USA Rice works closely with the U.S. rice importers in key markets, such as the UK, Turkey, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, to develop promotional plans that support the sales of all locally available U.S. rice brands. All U.S. rice brands available in the market are welcome to participate, and many do. "USA Rice's third party 'buy in' program generated an additional $368,911 in 2017 from all importers participating in our different promotional activities in these four countries," said Terry Harris, chairman of the USA Rice International Promotion Committee. "These additional funds not only extend the reach of the combined FMD and MAP 2017 budgets by 33 percent but also attest to the value these importers place in our marketing efforts." Harris said the program creates valuable partnerships as the local importers now have "skin in the game" that motivates them to continue sourcing and identifying

U.S. rice on a long-term basis; it encourages new companies to begin importing U.S. rice to be able to get in on the program; and the real-time market feedback helps ensure USA Rice promotions are on message and on trend. The local U.S. rice importers also benefit from USA Rice expertise in creating promotional materials and programs, and with the additional backing of the MAP and FMD funds, they can afford to have stronger promotional support for their U.S. rice brands that ultimately increase sales and U.S. rice exports.

"We absolutely see higher sales in these markets, and are fostering sourcing loyalty to U.S. origin," concluded Harris.

Rice Webinar: Thursday March 22

Tune in Thursday, March 22 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time, for a new rice webinar hosted by Dr. Bobby Coats, with the Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness at the University of Arkansas. USDA's Nathan Childs will present both the domestic and global 10-year baseline forecasts for rice. For the U.S., he will focus on area, yield, production, trade, use, stocks, and prices for all rice and by class, explaining economic factors driving the forecasts. For the global all-rice market, emphasis will be on major importers and exports as well as overall trade levels. Go here to register for the webinar.

Big boost to rice farmers: Basmati exports may cross Rs 26,000 cr mark this fiscal The strong demand revival, especially from Iran, may help Basmati rice exports to close the year with a 20 per cent growth at Rs 26,000 crore. By: PTI | Mumbai | Published: March 20, 2018 6:27 PMSHARE

Basmati export has witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22 per cent growth in value in the first nine months, after having been on the downward trajectory between FY15 and FY17. (IE) The strong demand revival, especially from Iran, may help Basmati rice exports to close the year with a 20 per cent growth at Rs 26,000 crore. It is estimated that basmati exports may cross Rs

26,000 crore in FY18, clipping at 20 per cent over the past fiscal year and at Rs 28,000 crore in FY19, Icra said in a report today. The report however noted that export volume has largely remained stagnant, which though is in line with the past few years. Basmati export has witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22 per cent growth in value in the first nine months, after having been on the downward trajectory between FY15 and FY17. â&#x20AC;&#x2022;This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18 as against Rs 53,985 per tonne a year ago. Historically Saudi Arabia and Iran have been the largest importers from India, accounting for 4045 per cent share. However, Saudiâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s share has declined in recent years -it stood at 14 per cent so far in FY18. But this was largely absorbed by Iran, whose share has surged to 28 per cent. Iran had imposed a temporary ban on imports around August 2017 which was lifted in January 2018. While this development is likely to support the industry growth in the last quarter of the current fiscal, greater dependence on Iran as a major export destination could spell volatility. For the second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 20-25 per cent in 2017 procurement season, largely due to 10-15 per cent lower paddy sowing after a moderate monsoon; and improved demand for Basmati rice in international markets. This increase in paddy price is likely to provide a fillip to Basmati prices in FY19. http://www.financialexpress.com/market/commodities/big-boost-to-rice-farmers-basmati-exports-maycross-rs-26000-cr-mark-this-fiscal/1105326/

Navy arrests three, seizes foreign rice worth N16m March 21, 2018 Some of the seized bags of foreign rice Etim Ekpimah, Uyo The Nigerian Navy, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, has arrested three suspected smugglers, Effiong Bassey, Wisdom Okon, and Nkporo Morris, over alleged illegal importation of rice into the country.

It was learnt that the navy, during the operation, seized 1,050 bags of rice worth N16m. The Commander of the NNS Jubilee, Commodore Ayerinade Akinwale, said the seized bags of rice were imported into the country to sabotage Nigeria‘s economy recovery. Akinwale said this during the handing over of the rice to the Nigeria Customs Service in Ikot Abasi on Tuesday. ―In the early hours of yesterday, personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship, Jubilee, went on patrol and intercepted bags of rice smuggled in from a neighbouring country. ―We are here to hand over the consignment to the customs for further investigation. Three suspects were apprehended and we are handing over all of them,‖ he said. Receiving the trucks of rice, the Assistant Comptroller of the Nigeria Cust oms Service, Babatunde Olomu, said a thorough investigation would be carried out to get to the root of the smuggling. He expressed delight at the synergy between the navy and the customs. Olomu said, ―We will do a thorough investigation into the matter. I want to commend the navy for the synergy with the customs.‖ Meanwhile, the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Matthew Emuekpere, has urged members of the public to supply the security agency with useful information to curb criminal activities. Emuekpere stated this at the NNS Jubilee base in Ikot Abasi during his first visit to the naval base.

He promised the NNS Jubilee commander that the logistics needed to run the base would be supplied. The FOC commended Olomu for the efficient management of the base and encouraged him to improve on other areas where improvement was required. ―The only thing that I want to implore the public to do, which will be their own contribution, is to ensure that they provide the needed information to further enhance the job of the base. ―As the Flag Officer Commanding, I will ensure that I facilitate the provision of the necessary logistics and other logistics we need to adopt,‖ Emuekpere said.

Etela’s birthday celebrated in Karimnagar Members of rice millers association organised annadanam programme at venkateshwara temple, market road in Karimnagar town. AddThis Sharing Buttons By AuthorTelanganaToday | Published: 20th Mar 2018 6:57 pm Updated: 20th Mar 2018 7:02 pm

MLA Gangula Kamalakar and TRS leaders celebrating Minister Etela Rajender's birthday in Karimnagar

Karimnagar: Birthday of Finance and Civil Supplies Minister Etela Rajender was celebrated across the district on Tuesday. Telangna Rastra Samithi workers celebrated the day by cutting cakes and distributing sweets. Zilla Parishad Chairperson Tula Uma participated in the celebrations held at Telangana chowk by TRSV. Meanwhile, local MLA Gangula Kamalakar celebrated the birthday at his residence. The 30th division corporator Choppari Jayasri celebrated the event by cutting cake in her division. Rajender‘s birthday was also celebrated in Peddapalli market yard under the aegis of market committee chairman Gundeti Illaiah.

Members of rice millers association organised annadanam programme at venkateshwara temple, market road in Karimnagar town. http://telanganatoday.com/etelas-birthday-celebrated-karimnagar

Pakistan hopes to sign FTA-II with China in April March 20, 2018

Imran Ali Kundi March 20, 2018

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Monday hoped to sign Free Trade Agreement (FTA) phase II with China in next month (April) during the visit of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to China that would increase the bilateral trade. Secretary Commerce Mohammad Younus Dagha Monday expressed satisfaction over the progress on the FTA phase II.

"I hoped that both sides can meet at an early date for the 10th rounds to finalize the remaining issues so that a formal announcement can be made during the prime minister's visit to China in April, 2018," the secretary said in a meeting with China's Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing. He briefed the ambassador on the status of negotiations of second phase of FTA. He thanked the Chinese government on accommodating the concerns of Pakistan's local industry and agreeing to provide a competitive edge to Pakistanis exports in Chinese market.

The Chinese ambassador reaffirmed Chine's commitment to address any apprehensions of Pakistan's local industry. He also agreed on the need to finalise the negotiations before PM Abbasi's visit to China. He assured to coordinate early dates for the next round with the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. Sources in the commerce ministry informed The Nation that government is already completing its homework before next round on FTA. The ministry and textile sector has recently called a meeting of all key chambers and associations to finalize sensitive list of items to be placed before Chinese officials during 10th round of FTAII, the sources said. They said that government wanted to take viewpoint of business community on revised trade agreement with China before its finalization. In February this year, China had agreed to revise whole Free Trade Agreement (FTA) under which Beijing will provide tariff concessions for increasing exports of Pakistan. Pakistan had suggested incorporating clauses for safeguarding the industries and the economy from any undue pressure on the balance of payments position. Dagha had presented the demands of Pakistani exporters and industries for accommodating in the final draft of the FTA. The demands included those from exporters to provide tariff concessions equivalent to Asean countries. Chinese side also agreed on Electronic Data Exchange which would help reducing the chances of under-invoicing, another major concern of Pakistani industry. It may be mentioned that these negotiations had started in 2012 to finalise the revised version of the FTA. Under the first phase of FTA, Pakistan's trade balance with China had worsened, and it had registered $12 billion mark in last financial year 2016-17.

Pakistan's major exports to China are, cotton yarn, chemical material, crude vegetable material, rice, raw hides and skins, fish and fish preparations. On the other hand, the major imports of Pakistan from China are machinery and its spare parts, manufactured fertilizer ,chemical elements, yarn and thread of synthetic fibre, iron and steel, chemical materials and products, vegetable and synthetic textile fibre, road vehicles and their parts, non-ferrous metals, tyres and tubes of rubber etc. https://nation.com.pk/20-Mar-2018/pakistan-hopes-to-sign-fta-ii-with-china-in-april

Basmati rice exports may cross Rs 26,000-cr-mark this fiscal Mar 20, 2018 05:51 PM IST | Source: PTI

It is estimated that basmati exports may cross Rs 26,000 crore in FY18, clipping at 20 per cent over the past fiscal year and at Rs 28,000 crore in FY19, Icra said in a report today.

PTI@moneycontrolcom The strong demand revival, especially from Iran, may help Basmati rice exports to close the year with a 20 per cent growth at Rs 26,000 crore.It is estimated that basmati exports may cross

Rs 26,000 crore in FY18, clipping at 20 per cent over the past fiscal year and at Rs 28,000 crore in FY19, Icra said in a report today. The report however noted that export volume has largely remained stagnant, which though is in line with the past few years. Basmati export has witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22 per cent growth in value in the first nine months, after having been on the downward trajectory between FY15 and FY17."This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18 as against Rs 53,985 per tonne a year ago. Historically Saudi Arabia and Iran have been the largest importers from India, accounting for 4045 per cent share. However, Saudi's share has declined in recent years - it stood at 14 per cent so far in FY18. But this was largely absorbed by Iran, whose share has surged to 28 per cent.Iran had imposed a temporary ban on imports around August 2017 which was lifted in January 2018. While this development is likely to support the industry growth in the last quarter of the current fiscal, greater dependence on Iran as a major export destination could spell volatility. For the second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 20-25 per cent in 2017 procurement season, largely due to 10-15 per cent lower paddy sowing after a moderate monsoon; and improved demand for Basmati rice in international markets. This increase in paddy price is likely to provide a fillip to Basmati prices in FY19. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/economy/basmati-rice-exports-may-cross-rs26000-cr-mark-this-fiscal-2532553.html

Rice basmati slides on weak demand Rice basmati prices drifted lower by Rs 100 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today owing to slackened demand. However, other grains remained steady in thin trade. Traders

attributed the fall in rice basmati prices to easing demand against adequate stocks position. In the national capital, rice basmati common and Pusa-1121 variety were down by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,600-7,700 and Rs 6,700-6,800 per quintal respectively. Following are today's quotations (in Rs per quintal): Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,080-2,280, Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,770-1,775 Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,780-1,785, Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour mill Rs 960-970 (50 kg), Maida Rs 980-990 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,040-1,050 (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 7,600-7,700, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,700-6,800, Permal raw Rs 2,325-2375, Permal wand Rs 2,375-2,425, Sela Rs 2,900-3,100 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,975-2,025, Bajra Rs 1,200-1,205, Jowar yellow Rs 1,400-1,450, white Rs 2,800-2,900, Maize Rs 1,4401,445, Barley Rs 1,490-1,500. http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/rice-basmati-slides-on-weak-demand118032100474_1.html

Rice Prices as on : 21-03-2018 12:16:16 PM Arrivals in tonnes;prices in Rs/quintal in domestic market. Arrivals Current

Price % change

Season cumulative

Modal

Prev. Modal

Prev.Yr %change

Rice Nalbari(ASM)

1122.00

-31.38

10789.00

2450

2500

16.67

Bahraich(UP)

227.50

-10.15

2521.60

2200

2250

-0.90

Karimganj(ASM)

70.00

450.00

2350

2.17

Kopaganj(UP)

45.00

991.00

2160

2155

Hapur(UP)

40.00

1130.00

2750

2680

19.57

Sahiyapur(UP)

32.00

-1.54

1138.50

2145

2135

Lakhimpur(UP)

30.00

805.00

2170

2180

-0.46

Naugarh(UP)

26.00

-2.62

139.40

2050

2040

Dibrugarh(ASM)

10.00

122.22

290.90

2400

6.67

Mirzapur(UP)

9.00

5.88

247.50

2135

2130

Khurja(UP)

8.00

-27.27

376.00

2615

2585

Ranaghat(WB)

6.31

-4.39

152.80

3920

3900

70.43

Chhibramau(Kannuj)(UP)

5.00

174.50

2240

2250

0.45

Bonai(Bonai)(Ori)

2.50

150

62.90

3000

2500

20.00

Jahangirabad(UP)

2.00

-20

58.50

2575

2570

11.96

Silapathar(ASM)

1.90

-78.65

53.10

2600

-13.33

Billsadda(UP)

0.80

-93.33

107.80

2230

2245

Kasipur(WB)

0.52

-21.21

2.93

2610

2620

13.48

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/rice-prices/article23309567.ece

NFA gives go signal to import 5M sacks of rice by UNTV | Posted on Tuesday, March 20th, 2018 FILE PHOTO: Thousand sacks of rice stored in a warehouse.

MANILA, Philippines â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The National Food Authority (NFA) Council has tasked the National

Food Authority to start the process of procuring 250,000 metric tons or 5 million sacks of rice through importation. This will serve as a buffer stock of the agency.Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said that President Rodrigo Duterte presided the council meeting on Monday and directed it to ensure that rice crisis in 2008 will not happen again.Piñol said that this is the right time to import rice because farmers have already finished their harvest. The Secretary added that the imported rice will arrive in 45 days.Meanwhile, the President has ordered the council to set a meeting between him and the rice traders to discuss the rice supply in the country. — UNTV News & Rescue https://www.untvweb.com/news/nfa-gives-go-signal-to-import-5m-sacks-of-rice/

BRIEF-Indonesia's Bulog extends timeframe for importing 500,000 T of rice Reuters Staff March 20 (Reuters) -* Indonesia‘s state food procurement agency, Bulog, will extend the timeframe for its plan to import 500,000 tonnes rice to June from February, chief executive Djarot Kusumayakti said. * Bulog will open a tender on Wednesday to procure 80,000 tonnes of 5-15 percent broken rice from South Asian countries for May-June arrival.

* Bulog said it expects 420,000 tonnes of rice from Thailand, Vietnam and India to arrive by the end of March.

* Current rice stocks at Bulog are around 600,000 tonnes, the CEO said. (Reporting by Bernadette Christina Munthe; Writing by Fransiska Nangoy)

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-blast/suicide-bomber-kills-at-least-26-near-shrinein-afghan-capital

Indonesia strives to stabilise domestic rice prices VNA TUESDAY, MARCH 20, 2018 - 20:33:00

Workers unload Vietnamese rice at Tenau Port in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (Source:http://www.thejakartapost.com)

Jakarta (VNA) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Darmin Nasution has called on the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) to distribute imported rice that is currently stored at its warehouses to push rice prices down. Earlier, Bulog planned to distribute 400,000 tonnes of subsidised rice in March in an effort to stabilise rice prices.Besides, an additional 150,000 tonnes of rice will be brought to the market this month in stead of next month as originally scheduled. Darmin said the move was crucial because the harvest season would reach its peak in April, when rice prices are expected to increase.In January, the Indonesian Government decided to import 500,000 tonnes of rice due to increasing prices in the market. By doing so, it aimed to stabilise prices and provide Bulog with sufficient stock of the commodity. However, Bulog procurement director Andrianto Wahyu Adi said later that the agency was only able to import 346,000 tonnes of rice, equivalent to almost 70 percent of the planned amount, due to time constraints.Darmin stressed the need to do everything to push rice prices down prior to the start of the fasting month, which will last from May 15 to June 15 this year.-VNA https://en.vietnamplus.vn/indonesia-strives-to-stabilise-domestic-rice-prices/128195.vnp

Talks on with Sri Lanka to export more rice: Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy DECCAN CHRONICLE. PublishedMar 20, 2018, 7:37 am IST UpdatedMar 20, 2018, 7:37 am IST

Colombo has already agreed to import 1 lakh tonne.

Agriculture minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy with MLC Beeda Ravichandra, former minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, APIIC chairman Dr P. Krishnaiah and joint collector A.MD. Imtiaz in Nellore on Monday. (Photo: DC) Nellore: Agriculture Minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy said the authorities were trying to secure order for export of an additional 1 lakh tonnes of rice to Sri Lanka while pointing that the paddy production in SPSR Nellore district during the current harvesting season has been very good. During a review with officials from various departments including agriculture and revenue, he said Sri Lanka had placed order for 1 lakh metric tonnes of rice. Efforts are in progress, however, to secure order for another 1 lakh MTs. He asked officials to pay Rs 630 in addition to the MSP of Rs 1590 per putti (850 kg) of paddy (NLR 34449 variety; Nellore masoori). He warned the millers against colleting one and half kg

of paddy additionally for every bag. He said government will bear any loss that the millers may incur while referring to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's directions on the issue. Pointing to the 28 lakh puttis of paddy harvested so far, he said 6 lakh puttis had already reached the paddy procurement centres. He found fault with YSRC leaders for blaming him over the irregularities on part of rice millers. He assured the procurement of paddy damaged by rain, he slammed YSRC leaders for politicising the issue. Speaking on the occasion, Joint Collector A. Md. Imtiaz said they have established 168 paddy purchase centres with 94 of them being active. He added that the collection is at a brisk pace at Kottavellanti, Kovur, Atmakur, AS Peta, Mahimalur, Sangam, Duvvur, Dama Nellore and Nayudupeta among other centres. https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/200318/talks-on-with-sri-lanka-toexport-more-rice-somireddy-chandramohan-re.html

Pakistan hopes to sign FTA-II with China in April March 20, 2018

Imran Ali Kundi March 20, 2018 ISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Monday hoped to sign Free Trade Agreement (FTA) phase II with China in next month (April) during the visit of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to China that would increase the bilateral trade.

Secretary Commerce Mohammad Younus Dagha Monday expressed satisfaction over the progress on the FTA phase II. "I hoped that both sides can meet at an early date for the 10th rounds to finalize the remaining issues so that a formal announcement can be made during the prime minister's visit to China in April, 2018," the secretary said in a meeting with China's Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing. He briefed the ambassador on the status of negotiations of second phase of FTA. He thanked the Chinese government on accommodating the concerns of Pakistan's local industry and agreeing to provide a competitive edge to Pakistanis exports in Chinese market. The Chinese ambassador reaffirmed Chine's commitment to address any apprehensions of Pakistan's local industry.He also agreed on the need to finalise the negotiations before PM Abbasi's visit to China. He assured to coordinate early dates for the next round with the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. Sources in the commerce ministry informed The Nation that government is already completing its homework before next round on FTA. The ministry and textile sector has recently called a meeting of all key chambers and associations to finalize sensitive list of items to be placed before Chinese officials during 10th round of FTAII, the sources said. They said that government wanted to take viewpoint of business community on revised trade agreement with China before its finalization. In February this year, China had agreed to revise whole Free Trade Agreement (FTA) under which Beijing will provide tariff concessions for increasing exports of Pakistan. Pakistan had suggested incorporating clauses for safeguarding the industries and the economy from any undue pressure on the balance of payments position. Dagha had presented the demands of Pakistani exporters and industries for accommodating in the final draft of the FTA.

The demands included those from exporters to provide tariff concessions equivalent to Asean countries. Chinese side also agreed on Electronic Data Exchange which would help reducing the chances of under-invoicing, another major concern of Pakistani industry. It may be mentioned that these negotiations had started in 2012 to finalise the revised version of the FTA. Under the first phase of FTA, Pakistan's trade balance with China had worsened, and it had registered $12 billion mark in last financial year 2016-17. Pakistan's major exports to China are, cotton yarn, chemical material, crude vegetable material, rice, raw hides and skins, fish and fish preparations. On the other hand, the major imports of Pakistan from China are machinery and its spare parts, manufactured fertilizer ,chemical elements, yarn and thread of synthetic fibre, iron and steel, chemical materials and products, vegetable and synthetic textile fibre, road vehicles and their parts, non-ferrous metals, tyres and tubes of rubber etc.

Anchor Borrowers Programme: Rice Farmers Commend Nigerian Govt FILE PHOTO: Rice farm in Nigeria.Rice farmers in Mani Local Government Area of Katsina State have commended the Federal Government for its agricultural initiatives, especially the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP). Jamilu Ibrahim-Boyi, the Chairman of Rice Farmers Association in Nigeria (RIFAN) in Mani Local Government Area (LGA), conveyed the commendation in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Mani on Tuesday. He said that under the programme, many farmers in the rural areas were able to access farm inputs easily, adding that the feat had led to an increase in rice production in the council area. He described the ABP as a life-saving programme, considering the millions of farmers who were participating in the programme nationwide.

Ibrahim-Boyi noted that the programme had created some wealthy farmers, adding that rice farmers would continue to support the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s efforts to make Nigeria to attain food security. He said that more than 1,000 farmers in Mani LGA had benefited from the supply of agricultural inputs under the programme. He said that each farmer was provided with bags of fertilisers as well as insecticides, herbicides, sprayers, seedlings and water pumping machines. Ibrahim-Boyi said that 295 rice farmers were registered under the first phase of the programme in the last dry season farming, stressing that loan repayment had reached 40 per cent. He added that the association had received 350 bags of paddy rice as loan repayment. He said that 115 farmers were registered during the last wet season farming and the beneficiaries

were given assorted agricultural inputs. Ibrahim-Boyi said that the association then received 120 bags of paddy from the registered farmers as loan repayment.

He pledged that the association would continue to monitor the implementation of the ABP, saying: â&#x20AC;&#x2022;We would not hesitate to confiscate the implements of any erring farmer and sanction him.â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2018/03/20/anchor-borrowers-programme-rice-farmers-commendnigerian-govt/

Basmati rice exports may cross Rs 26,000-cr-mark this fiscal PTI|Updated: Mar 20, 2018, 05.57 PM IST

This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18.MUMBAI: The strong demand revival, especially from Iran, may help Basmati rice exports to close the year with a 20 per cent growth at Rs 26,000 crore. It is estimated that basmati exports may cross Rs 26,000 crore in FY18, clipping at 20 per cent over the past fiscal year and at Rs 28,000 crore in FY19, ICRA said in a report today. The report however noted that export volume has largely remained stagnant, which though is in line with the past few years. Basmati export has witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22 per cent growth in value in the first nine months, after having been on the downward trajectory between FY15 and FY17. This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18 as against Rs 53,985 per tonne a year ago. Historically Saudi Arabia and Iran have been the largest importers from India, accounting for 4045 per cent share. However, Saudi's share has declined in recent years - it stood at 14 per cent so far in FY18. But this was largely absorbed by Iran, whose share has surged to 28 per cent. Iran had imposed a temporary ban on imports around August 2017 which was lifted in January 2018. While this development is likely to support the industry growth in the last quarter of the current fiscal, greater dependence on Iran as a major export destination could spell volatility. For the second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 20-25 per cent in 2017 procurement season, largely due to 10-15 per cent lower paddy sowing after a moderate monsoon; and improved demand for Basmati rice in international markets. This increase in paddy price is likely to provide a fillip to Basmati prices in FY19. www.economic times.indiatimes.com

Basmati rice exports to grow strong in FY2018 : ICRA By

Sutanuka Ghosal, ET Bureau|

Mar 20, 2018, 04.01 PM IST

For second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 2025% in the procurement season of 2017.KOLKATA: Indian basmati rice exports are expected to post strong growth in FY2018 and FY2019 on the back of improved demand in the international market, especially from Iran and and transference of higher paddy prices over the last two procurement seasons, said ICRA on Tuesday. According to an ICRA note, Indian basmati rice exports have witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22% growth in value in first nine months of FY2018 over the previous fiscal, after having been on the downward trajectory over FY2015 to FY2017. This buoyant exports growth has been fuelled by 23% surge in average realisations (Rs 64,594/MT in 9M FY2018 as against Rs. 53,985/MT in FY2017) and it is estimated that basmati rice exports may cross Rs. 26,000 crore for FY2018 (growth of 20% over last fiscal) and Rs. 28,000 crore for FY2019. The concern however is that the export volumes have largely remained stagnant, in line with last few years. Says Mr. Deepak Jotwani, Assistant Vice President, ICRA , ―Historically Saudi Arabia and Iran have remained the largest importers of Basmati rice from India, accounting for 40-45% share. However, after having remained consistent for many years, Saudi Arabia‘s share of Basmati rice imports from India has declined in recent years – it stood at ~14% in 7M FY2018. This has been largely absorbed by Iran, whose share has surged to 28% in 7M FY2018 (as against 18% in FY2017), fuelling the industry growth in the current fiscal. Iran had imposed a temporary ban on imports around August 2017 which has been removed in January 2018. While this development is likely to support the industry growth in the last quarter of the current fiscal, greater dependence on Iran as a major export destination could spell volatility for the industry.‖ For second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 20-25% in the procurement season of 2017. This price rice is largely attributable to lower (by 10-15%) paddy sowing on the back of a moderate monsoon; and improved demand for Basmati rice in the international market. This increase in paddy price is likely to provide a fillip to Basmati rice prices in FY2019. However, sustained uptick in paddy prices over the past two procurement seasons could adversely impact the profitability of industry players in FY2019, especially in case of volatility in international demand. Mr. Deepak Jotwani concludes: ―In the current fiscal, average export realisations have firmed up considerably in 9M FY2018 over FY2017. Improvement in demand on the back of recent

resumption of imports by Iran, along with the higher paddy prices in the recently concluded procurement season, is likely to sustain the average realisations in Q4 FY2018 as well. As a result, the export value is estimated to grow to around Rs. 26,000 crore in FY2018, a growth of 20% over FY2017. The momentum percolating to the next fiscal is likely to fuel the industry growth in FY2019 as well, wherein ICRA estimates the export value to stand at Rs. 28,000 crore.â&#x20AC;&#x2013; https://economictimes.indiatimes.com

Basmati rice exports may cross Rs 26,000-cr-mark this fiscal PTI|Updated: Mar 20, 2018, 05.57 PM IST This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18.MUMBAI: The strong demand revival, especially from Iran, may help Basmati rice exports to close the year with a 20 per cent growth at Rs 26,000 crore. It is estimated that basmati exports may cross Rs 26,000 crore in FY18, clipping at 20 per cent over the past fiscal year and at Rs 28,000 crore in FY19, ICRA said in a report today. The report however noted that export volume has largely remained stagnant, which though is in line with the past few years. Basmati export has witnessed strong revival in the current fiscal with 22 per cent growth in value in the first nine months, after having been on the downward trajectory between FY15 and FY17. This buoyant export growth has been fuelled by a 23 per cent surge in average realisation of Rs 64,594 per tonne in the first nine months of FY18 as against Rs 53,985 per tonne a year ago. Historically Saudi Arabia and Iran have been the largest importers from India, accounting for 4045 per cent share. However, Saudi's share has declined in recent years - it stood at 14 per cent so far in FY18. But this was largely absorbed by Iran, whose share has surged to 28 per cent. Iran had imposed a temporary ban on imports around August 2017 which was lifted in January 2018. While this development is likely to support the industry growth in the last quarter of the current fiscal, greater dependence on Iran as a major export destination could spell volatility. For the second year in a row, paddy prices have firmed up by 20-25 per cent in 2017 procurement season, largely due to 10-15 per cent lower paddy sowing after a moderate monsoon; and improved demand for Basmati rice in international markets.

This increase in paddy price is likely to provide a fillip to Basmati prices in FY19 https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/basmati-rice-exports-may-cross-rs26000-cr-mark-this-fiscal/articleshow/63383128.cms

Brunei, Indonesia work on new hybrid paddy varieties Achong Tanjong Borneo Bulletin/ANN Bandar Seri Begawan | Tue, March 20, 2018 | 07:29 pm Green haven: The natural beauty of Bali offers a supportive environment for visitors seeking drug or alcohol rehabilitation. (Shutterstock/File) A Research collaboration project on hybrid paddy varieties between the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood and PT Biogene Plantation from Indonesia has been going on for three planting seasons from 2016 to 2018. The research is being conducted at the Wasan Agricultural Development Area, Mukim Pengkalan Batu. The project aims to find out whether the hybrid paddy varieties developed by PT Biogene Plantation are capable of producing high yields (over 8.5 metric tons per hectare per season) consistently in the irrigated areas of Brunei Darussalam. The research project is one of several research collaboration projects undertaken by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) through the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood together with foreign institutions in its efforts to raise local rice production beyond the benchmark set by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood and increase the country‘s rice self-sufficiency levels. According to the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, from the research conducted, two hybrid paddy varieties – Sembada B9 and Sembada 188 – have been identified as potential strains suitable to be planted in Brunei to help boost domestic rice production. Under preliminary trials, the selection of these hybrid varieties for the purpose of studying their production capability in this country is based on their high yield potential of 12 metric tons per hectare per season in some parts of Indonesia such as Java.

During the first (May â&#x20AC;&#x201C; August 2016) and second (May â&#x20AC;&#x201C; August 2017) planting seasons, both paddy varieties were able to consistently produce 5-6 metric tons per hectare per season. Harvesting for the third season has already begun and both varieties are expected to achieve a yield of around 6 metric tons per hectare. The prime reason for lower yields in Brunei compared to Indonesia is down to soil issues â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the soil in Brunei is generally of the acid sulphate type and acidic, which is not optimum for maximum output for this paddy variety. Nevertheless, the yield for both Sembada B9 and Sembada 188 are still higher compared to the average yield of the Laila variety which is 3 metric tons per hectare per season. This is significant as it means that the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood has successfully identified varieties capable of producing twice the average yield of Laila paddy. Apart from this research collaboration with PT Biogene Plantation, the MPRT has also established research collaborations in hybrid paddy varieties with Yuan Longping High-Tech Agriculture Co Ltd from China. Meanwhile, cooperation on the production of hybrid rice is currently in the seed supply phase, with seeds being provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation of Myanmar.

In addition, the MPRT is continuously working on improving the skills and expertise of its officers and staff as well as farmers and preparing them for the upcoming large-scale hybrid paddy planting by having them undergo training courses on hybrid rice technology. This large-scale paddy planting is scheduled to be carried out in a few stages in the irrigated areas of the country beginning in May. Present to witness the paddy harvesting at the Wasan Agricultural Development Area recently were I Indiarto, a senior advisor at PT Biogene Plantation, Indonesia and his delegation. http://www.thejakartapost.com/seasia/2018/03/20/brunei-higher-yield-from-new-hybrid-paddyvarieties.html

Basmati Rice Market Research including Growth Factors, Development Trends and Types & Application by Regions 2022 March 20, 2018 - by mangesh

Basmati Rice Market Report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the Basmati Rice Industry for 2018-2022. Basmati Rice Market report analyses the industry potential for each geographical region based on the growth rate, macroeconomic parameters, consumer buying patterns, market demand and supply scenarios. Basmati Rice Market analysis reports provide a valuable source of insightful data for business strategists and competitive analysis. It provides the overview with growth analysis and futuristic cost, revenue, demand and supply data. The research analysts provide an elaborate description of the value chain and its distributor analysis. This Basmati Rice market study provides comprehensive data which enhances the understanding, scope and application of this report. Global Basmati Rice Market competition by top Manufacturers, with sales volume, Price (USD/Unit), revenue (Million USD) and market share for each Manufacturer; the top Manufacturers including KRBL Limited, Amira Nature Foods, LT Foods, Best Foods, Kohinoor Rice, Aeroplane Rice, Tilda Basmati Rice, Matco Foods, Amar Singh Chawal Wala, Hanuman Rice Mills, Adani Wilmar, HAS Rice Pakistan, Galaxy Rice Mill, Dunar Foods, Sungold and Many others. The report split global into several key Regions, with sales (Units), revenue (Million USD), market share and growth rate of Basmati Rice for these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering United States, China, Europe, Japan, Southeast Asia and India. Request for Sample of Report@ https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/requestsample/11168349

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Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders: Marketing Channel (Direct & Indirect Marketing), Marketing Channel Development Trend, Market Positioning (Pricing Strategy, Brand Strategy, Target Client), Distributors/Traders List Inquire for further detailed information about Basmati Rice Market @ https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/11168349 Reasons for Buying Basmati Rice Market Report: It provides a forward-looking perspective on different driving factors or restraining market growth. Basmati Rice market report provides a six-year forecast assessed based on how the market is predicted to grow. It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors. Basmati Rice market report helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segments.

Basmati Rice Market Research including Growth Factors, Development Trends and Types & Application by Regions 2022 March 20, 2018 - by mangesh

Request for Sample of Report@ https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/requestsample/11168349 Basmati Rice Market Report provides comprehensive analysis of key market segments and subsegments with evolving market trends and dynamics, changing supply and demand scenarios by quantifying market opportunities through market sizing and market forecasting, Tracking current trends, challenges, and Competitive insights. Opportunity mapping in terms of technological breakthroughs for business development. In this Basmati Rice Market analysis, traders and distributors analysis is given along with contact details. For material and equipment suppliers also, contact details are given. New investment feasibility analysis is included in the report. Basmati Rice Market report provides the main region, market conditions with the product price, profit, capacity, production, supply, demand and market growth rate and forecast etc. the Basmati Rice Market report makes some important proposals for a new project of Basmati Rice Industry before evaluating its feasibility. Purchase Basmati Rice Market Research Report @ https://www.360marketupdates.com/purchase/11168349 Some of major points covered in TOC: Market Overview: Scope & Product Overview, Classification of Basmati Rice by Product Category (Market Size (Sales), Market Share Comparison by Type (Product Category)), Basmati Rice Market by Application/End Users (Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Application), Market by Region (Market Size (Value) Comparison by Region, Status and Prospect (2012-2022)). Basmati Rice Market by Competition by Players/Suppliers, Type and Application: Competition by Players/Suppliers, Region, Types & Applications (Sales and Market Share, Revenue and Share Volume and Value) Basmati Rice Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data: Company, Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors, Product Category, Application and Specification with Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin, Main Business/Business Overview. Basmati Rice Market by Manufacturing Cost Analysis: Key Raw Materials Analysis, Price Trend of Key Raw Materials, Key Suppliers of Raw Materials, Market Concentration Rate of Raw Materials, Proportion of Manufacturing Cost Structure (Raw Materials, Labour Cost), Manufacturing Process Analysis

Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers: Industrial Chain Analysis, Upstream Raw Materials Sourcing, Raw Materials Sources, Downstream Buyers Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders: Marketing Channel (Direct & Indirect Marketing), Marketing Channel Development Trend, Market Positioning (Pricing Strategy, Brand Strategy, Target Client), Distributors/Traders List Inquire for further detailed information about Basmati Rice Market @ https://www.360marketupdates.com/enquiry/pre-order-enquiry/11168349 Reasons for Buying Basmati Rice Market Report: It provides a forward-looking perspective on different driving factors or restraining market growth. Basmati Rice market report provides a six-year forecast assessed based on how the market is predicted to grow. It provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitors. Basmati Rice market report helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segments.

Higher yield from new hybrid paddy varieties March 20, 2018

Achong Tanjong

|A RESEARCH collaboration project on hybrid paddy varieties between the

Department of Agriculture and Agrifood and PT Biogene Plantation from the Republic of Indonesia has been going on for three planting seasons from 2016 to 2018. The research is being conducted at the Wasan Agricultural Development Area, Mukim Pengkalan Batu.The project aims to find out whether the hybrid paddy varieties developed by PT Biogene Plantation are capable of producing high yields (over 8.5 metric tonnes per hectare (mt/ha) per season) consistently in the irrigated areas of Brunei Darussalam.The research project is one of several research collaboration projects undertaken by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) through the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood together with foreign institutions in its efforts to raise local rice production beyond the benchmark set by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood – ie 8.5mt/ha/season – and increase the country‘s rice self-sufficiency levels.

According to the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, from the research conducted, two hybrid paddy varieties – Sembada B9 and Sembada 188 – have been identified as potential strains suitable to be planted in Brunei Darussalam to help boost domestic rice production. Dr Ir I Indiarto, Senior Advisor at PT Biogene Plantation, Indonesia and delegation with officers from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood during the harvesting session recently. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

Two hybrid varieties, Sembada B9 and Sembada 188, have potential to be planted in Brunei Under preliminary trials, the selection of these hybrid varieties for the purpose of studying their production capability in this country is based on their high yield potential, ie 12mt/ha/season in some parts of Indonesia such as Java.During the first (May – August 2016) and second (May – August 2017) planting seasons, both paddy varieties were able to consistently produce 5-6mt/ha/season. Harvesting for the third season has already begun and both varieties are expected to achieve a yield of around 6mt/ha/season.

The prime reason for lower yields in Brunei Darussalam compared to Indonesia is down to soil issues

– the soil here is generally of the acid sulphate type and acidic, which is not optimum for maximum output for this paddy variety. Nevertheless, the yield for both Sembada B9 and Sembada 188 are still higher compared to the average yield of the Laila variety which is 3mt/ha/season. This is significant as it means that the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood has successfully identified varieties capable of producing twice the average yield of Laila paddy. Apart from this research collaboration with PT Biogene Plantation, the MPRT has also established research collaborations in hybrid paddy varieties with Yuan Longping High-Tech Agriculture Co Ltd from the People‘s Republic of China. Meanwhile, co-operation on the production of hybrid rice (titih) is currently in the seed supply phase, with seeds being provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. In addition, the MPRT is continuously working on improving the skills and expertise of its officers and staff as well as farmers and preparing them for the upcoming large-scale hybrid paddy planting by having them undergo training courses on hybrid rice technology. This large-scale paddy planting is scheduled to be carried out in a few stages in the irrigated areas of the country beginning in May. Present to witness the paddy harvesting at the Wasan Agricultural Development Area recently were Dr Ir I Indiarto, a senior advisor at PT Biogene Plantation, Indonesia and his delegation. https://borneobulletin.com.bn/higher-yield-from-new-hybrid-paddy-

varieties/

Golden Rice receives food safety approval from Canada March 20, 2018 - by Holly Demaree-Saddler

Photo courtesy of IRRI. LOS BAÑOS, THE PHILIPPINES — Health Canada has notified the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) that it has no objection to the food use of Provitamin A Biofortifi... [read more]

http://www.worldgrain.com/articles/news_home/World_Grain_News/2018/03/Golden_Rice_receives_food_safe.aspx?ID= {E8CE0F03-D54B-4F0F-90D0-855864D8258F}

STEM in focus: First female plant pathologist at UOG "I think it is important for students to consider the balance between family life and professional life, to think about where the two meet for long-term happiness." – Andrea L. Blas, plant pathologist, UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences Careers in fields under the umbrella called STEM – short for science, technology, engineering and math – traditionally have been held by men. In 2014, only 26 percent of STEM workers in the nation were women. In recent years, the College of Natural and Applied Sciences at the University of Guam has hired a number of qualified women and minorities to fill faculty positions. The dean of the college, Lee Yudin, understands that after receiving an education, people who are often underrepresented in the world of science and academia need opportunities to apply what they have learned. Andrea L. Blas is the first female plant pathologist to be hired at the college. After receiving a bachelor of science in environmental biology from Humboldt State University in California, Blas was looking for an opportunity to work in a laboratory with plants. She applied where she knew she could get the training in molecular biology she needed, and was hired by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Center in Arkansas. It was there – as she was walking down the hall with rice plants she was preparing to infect with fungus – that she realized her calling: plant pathology. After four years working with the USDA in Arkansas and Washington, D.C., Blas decided to pursue graduate studies in Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She eventually completed her dissertation on the "Molecular Genetics of

Papaya Fruit Traits" in 2008. After graduation, she took a three-year post-doctoral position in Barcelona, Spain, at the Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics. There, she conducted plant genetics research on peaches, nectarines and strawberries, which was a great experience for her personal life and career. Finding the right balance "Many of my life career choices were based on where I wanted to end up living," Blas said. "My parents returned to Guam after 27 years on the mainland with the U.S. military, and I wanted to be there to take care of them in their retirement age, so for years I had been actively pursuing the career experiences needed to apply for a position at UOG. I think it is important for students to consider the balance between family life and professional life, to think about where the two meet for long-term happiness." As a plant pathologist with CNAS, Blas is conducting research on the Tinangaja disease of coconuts and the application of native mycorrhizal fungi to enhance plants' resistance to disease, as well as teaching. She encourages students to think about which aspect of science work they enjoy and then decide what level of education they need to work in that field. Eager to make a difference "I believe the primary goal of a university is educating the whole person," Blas said. "I am very supportive of undergraduate education and enjoy giving students the opportunity to get hands-on experience in the lab to help them move up and out into the world."Her educational experiences have taken her around the world, and now Blas is eager to make a difference for the plants and people of her cultural home Editor's note: This is the second in a series in the coming months featuring education careers in science, technology, engineering and math. If you have suggestions for individuals to feature, email editor@postguam.com.