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TOP Contents - Tailored for YOU Latest News Headlines…
Nigeria Spends $4bn Annually On Rice Importation Says Alade Nagpur Foodgrain Prices - APMC & Open Market-May 30 TABLE-India Grain Prices - Delhi - May 30 Rice basmati, non-basmati decline on subdued demand Thai govt to accelerate bank borrowing to make rice payments to farmers ASEAN+3 rice council meets in Ha Noi Louisiana Rice Community Named Yellow Rail Capital of the World ME Group/Closing Rough Rice Futures Rice industry caught in flux No Such Thing As GMO Contamination' Rules Australian Court in Landmark Decision, Rebuffing Organic Activists
News Detail… Nigeria Spends $4bn Annually On Rice Importation Says Alade ARTICLE | MAY 30, 2014 - 3:09PM | BY AGENCY REPORTS Dr Sarah Alade, Acting Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, said on Friday that Nigeria spends an average of four billion dollars annually on the importation of rice.Alade stated this at the ongoing Africa Rising Conference on Friday in Maputo, the Mozambique capital.The conference reports that Alade featured as a panelist in a session with the theme: ``Structural Transformation and Private Sector Development in Sub-Saharan Africa‘‘.``Agriculture is key to economic development in Africa; on the average, Nigeria spends about four billion dollars on the importation of rice.
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``We need to improve domestic market to harness the natural resources we have,‘‘ Alade said.Alade said if Africa was able to transform the agricultural sector, it would be able to feed itself and have surplus for others.She said that the Nigerian government was doing everything possible to minimise risks in the sector to enable participation of local investors.She added that the ongoing agricultural transformation programme had equally attracted many foreign investors.In his contribution, Mr Andrew Rugasira, Chief Executive Officer, Good Africa Coffee, Uganda, said mineral resources abound in Africa that could be explored even as transformation in the agricultural sector was been pursued. He noted that developed countries were more interested in the development of agriculture in the continent than Africans who own arable lands.According to him, Nigeria, Cameroon and Cote d'Ivoire which have huge coffee resources export less products compared to Germany.``Germany exports on the average of about 12 million metric tonnes of coffee worth about 9. 3 billion dollars compared to the 10 million metric tonnes with a value of 2.2 billion dollars by countries in Africa.``Germany does not grow coffee but they export more than us; it needs to be changed,‘‘ Rugasira, said. He said that implementation of well thought out policies in African countries remained a major challenge to be tackled.Also, Jingdong Hua, Vice President and Treasurer, International Finance Corporation called for the introduction of technology in trading in Africa.He said that focus should be on improving the agricultural sector through various capital markets, adding that money should be channelled into improving areas that would be of economic value to the countries.This, Jindong said, would help to use agriculture to achieve inclusive economic growth.
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices - APMC & Open Market-May 30 Fri May 30, 2014 3:18pm IST Nagpur, May 30 (Reuters) - Gram and tuar prices in Nagpur Agriculture Produce and Marketing Committee (APMC) firmed up again on renewed demand from local millers amid weak supply from producing regions. Fresh rise on NCDEX, weak overseas arrival and reported demand from South-based millers also helped to push up prices, according to sources. *
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FOODGRAINS & PULSES GRAM * Gram varieties ruled steady in open market here but demand was poor.
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TUAR * Tuar varieties quoted static in open market matching the demand and supply position. * Wheat mill quality recovered smartly in open market on good marriage season demand from local traders amid weak supply from producing regions like Punjab and Haryana. * In Akola, Tuar - 4,100-4,300, Tuar dal - 6,300-6,500, Udid at 6,100-6,500, Udid Mogar (clean) - 7,200-7,700, Moong - 8,200-8,400, Moong Mogar (clean) 9,500-10,200, Gram - 2,400-2,600, Gram Super best bold - 3,300-3,600 for 100 kg. * Other varieties of wheat, rice and other commodities remained steady in open market in thin trading activity, according to sources. Nagpur foodgrains APMC auction/open-market prices in rupees for 100 kg FOODGRAINS Available prices Previous close Gram Auction 2,300-2,460 2,300-2,420 Gram Pink Auction n.a. 2,100-2,600 Tuar Auction 3,900-4,200 3,840-4,290 Moong Auction n.a. 5,200-5,500 Udid Auction n.a. 4,300-4,500 Masoor Auction n.a. 2,600-2,800 Gram Super Best Bold 4,000-4,200 4,000-4,200 Gram Super Best n.a. Gram Medium Best 3,850-3,950 3,850-3,950 Gram Dal Medium n.a. n.a. Gram Mill Quality 3,500-3,600 3,500-3,600 Desi gram Raw 2,850-2,950 2,850-2,950 Gram Filter new 3,200-3,400 3,200-3,400 Gram Kabuli 8,500-10,500 8,500-10,500 Gram Pink 7,700-8,100 7,700-8,100 Tuar Fataka Best 6,500-6,700 6,500-6,700 Tuar Fataka Medium 6,300-6,400 6,300-6,400 Tuar Dal Best Phod 5,800-6,000 5,800-6,000 Tuar Dal Medium phod 5,400-5,700 5,400-5,700 Tuar Gavarani 4,400-4,500 4,400-4,500 Tuar Karnataka 4,350-4,450 4,350-4,450 Tuar Black 7,800-8,000 7,800-8,000 Masoor dal best 6,200-6,400 6,200-6,400 Masoor dal medium 6,000-6,200 6,000-6,200 Masoor n.a. n.a. Moong Mogar bold 9,900-10,500 9,900-10,500 Moong Mogar Medium best 9,200-9,700 9,200-9,700 Moong dal super best 9,200-9,600 9,200-9,600 Moong dal Chilka 9,000-9,400 9,000-9,400
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Moong Mill quality n.a. n.a. Moong Chamki best 8,000-9,100 8,000-9,100 Udid Mogar Super best (100 INR/KG) 8,000-8,200 8,000-8,200 Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG) 6,600-7,400 6,600-7,400 Udid Dal Black (100 INR/KG) 5,500-5,800 5,500-5,800 Batri dal (100 INR/KG) 4,700-6,000 4,700-6,000 Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg) 3,050-3,150 3,050-3,150 Watana Dal (100 INR/KG) 3,300-3,400 3,300-3,400 Watana White (100 INR/KG) 3,500-3,600 3,500-3,600 Watana Green Best (100 INR/KG) 4,800-5,300 4,800-5,300 Wheat 308 (100 INR/KG) 1,200-1,600 1,200-1,600 Wheat Mill quality(100 INR/KG) 1,300-1,600 1,200-1,500 Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG) 1,300-1,500 1,300-1,500 Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG) 2,000-2,150 2,000-2,150 Wheat Lokwan medium (100 INR/KG) 1,700-1,800 1,700-1,800 Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG) n.a. n.a. MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG) 2,800-3,000 2,800-3,000 MP Sharbati Medium (100 INR/KG) 2,200-2,700 2,200-2,700 Wheat 147 (100 INR/KG) 1,100-1,400 1,100-1,400 Wheat Best (100 INR/KG) 1,700-2,000 1,700-2,000 Rice BPT (100 INR/KG) 3,600-4,000 3,600-4,000 Rice Parmal (100 INR/KG) 1,900-2,100 1,900-2,100 Rice Swarna old (100 INR/KG) 3,000-3,200 3,000-3,200 Rice HMT (100 INR/KG) 3,800-4,100 3,800-4,100 Rice HMT Shriram (100 INR/KG) 4,600-5,400 4,600-5,400 Rice Basmati best (100 INR/KG) 10,400-13,900 10,400-13,900 Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG) 7,300-10,000 7,300-10,500 Rice Chinnor (100 INR/KG) 5,500-5,800 5,500-5,800 Jowar Gavarani (100 INR/KG) 1,300-1,500 1,300-1,500 Jowar CH-5 (100 INR/KG) 1,600-1,700 1,600-1,700 WEATHER (NAGPUR) Maximum temp. 45.2 degree Celsius (113.3 degree Fahrenheit), minimum temp. 28.2 degree Celsius (82.7 degree Fahrenheit) Humidity: Highest - n.a., lowest - n.a. Rainfall : 0.0 mm FORECAST: Mainly clear sky. Maximum and Minimum temperature likely to be around 46 and 29 degree Celsius respectively. Note: n.a.--not available (For oils, transport costs are excluded from plant delivery prices, but included in market prices.)
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TABLE-India Grain Prices - Delhi - May 30 Fri May 30, 2014 3:30pm IST Rates by Asian News International, New Delhi Tel: 011 2619 1464 Indicative Grains
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(in rupees per 100 kg unless stated) ---------------------------------------------------------Wheat Desi
2,000-2,600
2,000-2,600.
Wheat Dara
1,600-1,700
1,550-1,650.
Atta Chakki (per 10 Kg) Roller Mill (per bag)
1,600-1,700
Maida (per bag) Sooji (per bag)
1,650-1,800 1,850-2,000
Rice Basmati(Common) Rice Permal Rice Sela I.R.-8 Gram
220-250
220-250. 1,600-1,700. 1,650-1,800. 1,850-2,000.
8,000-9,100
1,800-2,400 1,600-1,700 1,950-2,200 3,000-3,500
8,000-9,100.
1,800-2,400. 1,600-1,700. 1,950-2,200. 3,000-3,500.
Peas Green
3,200-3,300
3,200-3,300.
Peas White
3,150-3,350
3,150-3,350.
Bajra
1,500-1,700
1,450-1,650.
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Jowar white
2,000-3,500
2,000-3,500.
Maize
1,600-1,700
1,600-1,700.
Barley
1,300-1,600
1,300-1,600.
Source: Delhi grain market traders.
Rice basmati, non-basmati decline on subdued demand Press Trust of India | New Delhi May 30, 2014 Last Updated at 14:10 IST In thin trading, prices of rice basmati as well as non-basmati fell up to Rs 200 per quintal on the wholesale grains market today owing to slackened demand against increased supplies. Wheat and other grains, however, continued to be traded at previous levels in the absence of worthwhile activity. Traders said apart from reduced demand from stockists and retailers, increased supplies in the market weighed on rice prices. In the national capital, rice basmati common and Pusa- 1121 variety fell by Rs 200 each to Rs 8,600-9,000 and Rs 7,400-9,100 per quintal, respectively. In the non-basmati section permal raw and permal wand fell by Rs 25 each to Rs 2,150-2,200 and Rs 2,2002,300 per quintal, respectively. Following are today's quotations per quintal: Wheat, MP (deshi) 2,160-2,360, Wheat dara (for mills) 1,525-1,530, Chakki atta (delivery) 1,530-1,535 Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) 220, Shakti bhog (10 kg) 220, Roller flour mill 810-830 (50 kg), Maida 830-850 (50 kg) and Sooji 920-940 (50kg). Basmati rice (Lal Quila) 10,400, Shri Lal Mahal 10,000, Super Basmati Rice, 9,500, Basmati common new 8,600-9,000, Rice Pusa-(1121) new 7,400-9,100, Permal raw 2,150-2,200, Permal wand 2,200-2,300, Sela 2,750-2,850 and Rice IR-8- 1,800-1,850, Bajra 1,315-1,320, Jowar yellow 1,450-1,475, white 2,325-2,525, Maize 1,340-1,345, Barley 1,320-1,330.
Thai govt to accelerate bank borrowing to make rice payments to farmers
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BANGKOK Fri May 30, 2014 5:10am EDT
May 30 (Reuters) - Thailand's finance ministry said on Friday it would invite banks to offer terms for 50 billion baht ($1.5 billion) in loans on June 3, earlier than planned, so it can pay rice farmers who have waited months for money owed under a state buying scheme.The plan has been pushed forward due to faster-than-expected payments to farmers since a military government took power on May 22, Chularat Suteethorn, head of the ministry's public debt management office, told reporters.The ministry had planned to open bidding for a threeyear loan for 30 billion baht on June 6 and for another for the remaining 20 billion baht on June 13. "We will discuss with banks whether they can give us the whole loan on June 6," Chularat said, which would allow three days for the ministry to choose banks and receive the transfers.The loan will help cover total arrears of about 90 billion baht owed to around 800,000 farmers.They were left unpaid for months because a caretaker government did not have the authority to get funds from the budget or from banks.After months of political turmoil, the military overthrew the government and its administration has the power to secure funds. It has made paying the farmers one of its priorities.hularat said the state farm bank that manages the rice scheme was paying out as much as 9 billion baht a day, more than double the 4 billion baht expected. It is using money from its reserves initially. ($1 = 32.77 Thai Baht) (Reporting by Kitiphong Thaichareon; Writing by Orathai Sriring; Editing by Alan Raybould & Kim Coghill)
ASEAN+3 rice council meets in Ha Noi The ASEAN plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) Council convened yesterday (May 29) for its second meeting, focusing on financial management regulations and food security.Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Quoc Doanh spoke highly of APTERR activities, saying the organisation had provided swift relief for countries hit by disasters, such as the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan.Ensuring food security, especially in such emergency circumstances, required timely joint efforts from all regional nations, Doanh said, so the meeting should focus on amendments to the rules and procedures for financial management of APTERR.Participants also discussed co-operation mechanisms between ASEAN and APTERR and their action plan for the 2014-15 period. APTERR was established in 2012 and includes Japan, the Republic of Korea and China in addition to the 10 ASEAN member countries. The organisation aims to deal with food shortages caused by natural disasters
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or man-made calamities through the provision of food assistance and nutrition improvement programmes to people in need.
Vietnam, WB cooperate for better investment climate The Government of Vietnam is willing to closely work with the World Bank (WB) to better the country‘s investment climate and competitiveness. Image: Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung (right); WB Vietnam Country Director Victoria Kwakwa (left) (Photo: VNA)
Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the remarks while receiving the WB Vietnam Country Director Victoria Kwakwa in Hanoi on May 29 to discuss stronger cooperation ties between Vietnam and the bank.The Government leader said Vietnam has been carrying out specific support policies to help foreign-run businesses resume normal operation as soon as possible, following the recent disturbances in some localities sparked by China‘s brazen and illegal placement of its oil rig in Vietnam‘s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone.He highlighted the act as serious infringement of international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982) and direct threat to peace, stability, security and safety of navigation in the East Sea. The Prime Minister said he will attend a dialogue with businesspeople in June.Kwakwa highly valued efforts by the Vietnamese Government to promptly settle the matter in a definitive manner and help damaged businesses stabilise their operations.She said the Government‘s swift reaction to the situation, as well as its support activities, have received the high appreciation from both international investors and organisations.She confirmed that the World Bank will aid Vietnam to support damaged businesses, improve its investment environment and carry out effectively projects through the 17th replenishment of the International Development Assistance (IDA 17). Defence Minister heads to Singapore for 13th Shangri-La Dialogue Politburo member and Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh left Hanoi in the morning of May 30 for Singapore to attend the 13th IISS Asia Security Summit, better known as the Shangri-La Dialogue. Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh. Photo: VNA Hosted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the annual dialogue will take place from May 30 to June 1. The agenda of the five plenary sessions that form the dialogue will focus on the contribution of the US to regional stability, the process of advancing military-to-military cooperation and the handling of tensions and conflict management in the Asia-Pacific. The Shangri-La Dialogue this year will see the participation of many prime ministers, defence chiefs and researchers.
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The dialogue will begin on the evening of May 30 with the keynote speech this year being delivered by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Deputy PM talks bilateral ties with EU High Representative Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and EU High Representative for Foreign Relations and Security Policy Catherine Ashton discussed measures to promote bilateral relations during a phone conversation on May 29.The two sides affirmed to do their best to conclude negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement before the 10 th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM-10) Summit.They also vowed to work closely to ensure the success of the ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting scheduled for July 23 in Brussels.During their conversation, the two officials exchanged views on regional and international issues of common concern, including the current East Sea situation. The EU High Representative expressed her special concern about China‘s recent acts, saying they may affect the regional security environment.Ashton proposed that the parties concerned together seek a peaceful and cooperative solution in line with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to continue ensuring security and freedom of navigation.The EU calls on the parties to apply measures to ease tension and take no unilateral acts that negatively impact on peace and stability in the region, she said. Deputy PM, EU high representative hold phone talks Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton have discussed measures to boost Vietnam-EU ties, including the exchange of high-level delegations in future.During a phone conversation on May 29, the two sides pledged their best efforts to soon finalize the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations before the 10th ASEM summit, and bolster closer coordination to ensure the success of the ASEAN-EU Foreign Ministerial Meeting this July in Brussels. They also compared notes on international issues of mutual concern including the current situation in the East Sea. The EU official expressed her deep concern over China‘s actions that could adversely affect regional security.She suggested related parties should seek a peaceful solution in accordance with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), adding that the EU urged concerned parties to ease tensions and avoid unilateral acts that could harm regional peace and security. NA deputies discuss 2012 State budget balance
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National Assembly (NA) deputies gathered at a plenary session in Hanoi on May 29 to discuss the State budget balance for 2012.During the session, the deputies focused on the process of making State budget estimates, budget collection and spending and the execution of financial principles in budget collection and spending.The impacts of the 2012 fiscal policies on the State budget, the implementation of the State Audit‘s conclusions and proposals, and measures to improve it were also tabled. Earlier, lawmakers discussed in group the draft revised Social Insurance Law and a bill on amendments to some articles of the Law on Vocational Training.On May 30, the NA will hear reports on the revised Law on National Assembly Organisation and the amended Customs Law.Legislators are expected to approve a resolution on the 2015 Law and Ordinance Building Programme, and adjustments to the agenda of the National Assembly in the 13th term and 2014. They will also discuss the draft Law on Environment Protection (revised).
Vietnam calls for effective maritime resources management A Vietnamese representative at the United Nations has called on nations to join hands in building up the effective management of maritime resources, ensuring food security in each country.A Vietnamese representative at the United Nations has called on nations to join hands in building up the effective management of maritime resources, ensuring food security in each country.The head of the Vietnamese delegation to the ongoing UN consultative meeting on oceans and sea law in New York suggested technology transfer in the field of seafood exploitation from developed to developing countries. At the 15th meeting of the UN open-ended informal consultative process on oceans and the law of the sea on May 27-30, the Vietnamese representative highly valued topics for discussions, stressing the important role of seafood to food security, especially for long coastal states with a large population like Vietnam.According to the UN reports, seafood output, including catches and aquaculture, have seen a considerable increase, contributing to ensuring global food security. However, the seafood industry has faced challenges caused by climate change, pollution, population growth and illegal fishing. To minimise negative impact and ensure sustainable growth of seafood output, delegates said that countries should increase connectivity, such as exchanges of information and technology transfer.Also on this occasion, the Vietnamese head delegate made known the latest tensions caused by China in the East Sea which seriously affect legitimate fishing activities of Vietnamese fishermen.Since early May, many Vietnamese fishing boats have been repeatedly attacked and seriously damaged by Chinese vessels. Most recently, on May 26, China‘s vessels rammed and sank a Vietnamese boat, with 10 fishermen on board, while it was operating in its traditional fishing ground.At the beginning of May, China illegally dispatched the Haiyang Shiyou-981 rig, as well as a large fleet of armed vessels, military ships and aircraft, to Vietnam‘s waters and positioned the rig at 15 degrees 29 minutes 58 seconds north latitude and 111 degrees 12 minutes 06 seconds east longitude. The location is 80 miles deep inside Vietnam‘s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone. On May 27, China moved the rig to a new location 23 nautical miles from the old site. With the move, China has kept on violating Vietnam‘s sovereign right and jurisdiction.Chinese ships have repeatedly rammed and
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fired water cannons into Vietnamese coast guard and fisheries surveillance ships which are carrying out their law enforcement missions in the country‘s waters, leaving many Vietnamese ships damaged and many fisheries surveillance officers injured. Public administration academy granted prestigious reward President Truong Tan Sang presented the Ho Chi Minh Order to the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) at its 55th founding anniversary in Hanoi on May 29.The Ho Chi Minh Order, Vietnam‘s second highest honour, is conferred on collectives or individuals who have rendered outstanding services in various domains to the country.As a leading institution in training personnel for the State apparatus, NAPA has educated tens of thousands of officials and public servants for central and local agencies in the past five decades.It has also undertaken numerous pieces of research assisting administrative reform and policy making in Vietnam. The NAPA is a member of the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration, the Eastern Regional Organisation for Public Administration, and the Asian Group for Public Administration.At the ceremony, President Sang said that one major mission set up at the Party‘s 11th Congress in 2011 is accelerating administrative reform and improving the effectiveness of State management.To that end, it is of great importance to have professional and devoted staff, thus the academy plays a major role in performing this mission, he noted.At the event, the State leader also granted the Independence Order (third class) to NAPA Director and Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Nguyen Dang Thanh.
Workshop highlights 60 years of Vietnam-Mongolia diplomatic ties The 60-year-old diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and Mongolia was the main focus of a workshop recently held in Mongolia.Speaking at the May 27 event, Mongolian Deputy Foreign Minister D. Gankhuyag said that Mongolian leaders and people always treasure and wish to further develop the country‘s friendship and cooperation with Vietnam.During the workshop, both sides‘ scholars delivered reports on the bilateral ties over the past 60 years, highlighting achievements as well as limitations in the fields of politics, economics, trade, culture, science and education. One of the presentations stressed the importance of the Vietnam-Mongolia ties in helping Mongolia boost its political and economic integration into the ASEAN and Asian-Pacific region.Regarding the current East Sea issue after China illegally placed its drilling rig deep inside Vietnam‘s waters, delegates agreed that such small countries like Vietnam and Mongolia should unite and cooperate to form collective strength in regional and international issues.Ambassador Phan Dang Duong took this occasion to thank Mongolian people and the Mongolia-Vietnam Friendship Association, together with the international community, for raising their voice backing justice and Vietnam‘s legitimate aspiration to safeguard its sacred sovereignty. East Sea tension affects regional security, say scholars
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The escalating tension in the East Sea, a key navigation route as well as a site believed to habour vast deposits of oil, did and will have considerable implications for regional security, foreign scholars said at a round-table workshop in Singapore on May 28.Discussions at the workshop focused on issues related to the current situation in the East Sea, including legal foundations for parties concerned to claim sovereignty, Indonesia‘s role as a voice of moderation and mediation in the troubled waters, China‘s sea strategy and the United States‘ strategy of pivot to Asia.Increased interests in the East Sea by countries beyond the region, such as India, the Republic of Korea, Australia and New Zealand, and possible scenarios for the East Sea situation were also put on the table. Most speakers expressed concern about China‘s increasingly assertive acts in territorial dispute with its neighbouring countries. They stressed that ASEAN and China should quickly reach a Code of Conduct in the East Sea as soon as possible, as peace, stability and freedom of trade and navigation in the East Sea are the interest of not only ASEAN but also other countries in the world.Talking with Vietnam News Agency correspondents, Dr.LeszekBuszynski from the Australia National University‘s National Security College said there is very little legal basis for China‘s nine-dash line in the East Sea, and the Chinese themselves have great difficulty trying to justify it. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr K.S. Nathan from the National University of Malaysia held that if force is being used to intimidate any of the other claimants, it will invite counterforce. ―That‘s why we see that other external partners are also getting more and more interested in the East Sea dispute because they are interested in the safety of sea lines of communication, the free flow of commerce, free flow of trade on which the prosperity of Southeast Asia and Asia has depended for a long time,‖ he said. Many speakers said besides other challenges such as pirate, terrorism and human trafficking, water territorial disputes are posing the greatest obstacle to efforts to create a good order in ASEAN region. Therefore, Mira Permatasari, a staff of the Office of Private Secretary to Indonesia President said a greater role of ASEAN as a key driver is needed to solve the dispute. At the beginning of May, China illegally dispatched the Haiyang Shiyou-981 rig, as well as a large fleet of armed vessels, military ships and aircraft, to Vietnam‘s waters and positioned the rig at 15 degrees 29 minutes 58 seconds north latitude and 111 degrees 12 minutes 06 seconds east longitude. The location is 80 miles deep inside Vietnam‘s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone. On May 27, China moved the rig to 15 degrees 33 minutes 22 seconds north latitude and 111 degrees 34 minutes 36 seconds east longitude. The new location is 25 nautical miles from Tri Ton Island in Vietnam‘s Hoang Sa archipelago and 23 nautical miles east-northeast from the old location, still completely within Vietnam‘s continental shelf. With the move, China has kept on violating Vietnam‘s sovereign right and jurisdiction.Chinese ships have repeatedly rammed and fired water cannons into Vietnamese coast guard and fisheries surveillance ships which are carrying out their law enforcement missions in the country‘s waters, leaving many Vietnamese ships damaged and many fisheries surveillance officers injured. Azerbaijan aspires to strong ties with Vietnam
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Azerbaijan attaches great importance to developing ties with Vietnam, Ambassador Anar Imanov said at a function in Hanoi on May 28, marking Azerbaijan‘s 96th National Day.The opening of the Azerbaijan embassy in Hanoi in 2013 is part of the country‘s foreign policy of strengthening comprehensive cooperation with Vietnam, he said.The diplomat recalled reciprocal high-level visits between Vietnam and Azerbaijan and noted the two countries have great potential for boosting long-term and comprehensive cooperation in all realms, from politics to economics, tourism, science-technology, culture and social affairs. For her part, Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Phuong Nga said the relationship between Vietnam and Azerbaijan has stood the test of time and developed considerably in recent times.Vietnamese people bear in their heart and mind the whole-hearted support and valuable assistance given by Azerbaijan people during the former‘s past struggle for national liberation and defence, Nga said.She also thanked Azerbaijan for having trained generations of Vietnamese students and experts over the years.After gaining independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has carried out economic reform and made important achievements. It is now a regional powerhouse in energy, trade and transportation. Australia supports Vietnam’s East Sea peace efforts Australia supports Vietnam‘s efforts to deescalate and defuse tensions in the East Sea through diplomatic and legal channels, Professor Robert Hill, former Australian Minister for Defence has said.Professor Hill made the statement during a working session with a delegation from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam in Sydney on May 28.The discussion, initiated by the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney and the Lowy Institute for International Policy, examined developments in the East Sea with China given its consequential impact threatening peace and stability in the Southeast Asian region.Hill stated unequivocally that the provocative actions of China by illegally placing the Haiyang Shiyou 981 drilling oil rig and deploying armed ships and escorting planes to Vietnam‘s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are irrefutably and unnecessarily increasing tensions in the East Sea. Echoing Hill‘s statements, Hoang Anh Tuan, Director-General of the Institute for Foreign Policy and Strategic Studies at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam asserted that China‘s actions are a serious violation of Vietnam‘s sovereignty and jurisdiction.They are egregious transgressions of the United Nations Charter and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), and belie agreements reached by the two countries‘ leaders, Tuan said. China‘s provocation threatens peace and stability, and security, safety and freedom of navigation in the region, and damage friendly relations between the two peoples, he saidAustralian scholars and experts discussed China‘s motive behind its deployment of the oil rig, ASEAN‘s role in settling the dispute, the US‘s ‗pivot‘ policy, and Vietnam‘s solutions. Vietnam treasures fraternal solidarity with Cuba
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Vietnam always attaches importance to the fraternal solidarity, traditional friendship and close cooperation with Cuba, a Vietnamese official has said.Tran Quoc Vuong, Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee and Chief of its Office, made the affirmation in Hanoi on May 29 while receiving a delegation from the Cuban Communist Youth League Central Committee led by its member Yuniasky Crespo Baquero.He praised the youth unions and young generations of the two countries for their great role and responsibility in inheriting and promoting the bilateral ties over the past time.
Vuong expressed his belief that they will continuously improve the quality of ongoing joint programmes as well as seek to expand cooperation to new areas.Also at the reception, Vuong informed his guests of China‘s illegal placement of its oil rig Haiyang Shiyou-981 in Vietnam‘s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, which violated Vietnam‘s sovereignty, sovereign right and jurisdiction.Vietnam‘s consistent policy is to resolve the issue by peaceful means on the basis of international law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in particular, he said, adding the country seeks Cuba‘s support for its just struggle. For his part, Yuniasky Crespo Baquero affirmed the Cuban Communist Youth League always values the friendship and cooperation between the two Parties, two States and their people.She said she hopes that the two Parties and States will continue creating favourable conditions for both sides‘ youth unions to enhance their exchange activities, contributing to fostering the fraternal solidarity and traditional friendship between Vietnam and Cuba.
President meets needy youth to mark International Children's Day President Truong Tan Sang yesterday (May 29) met 55 children from disadvantaged backgrounds. They were chosen from 11 provinces and cities to mark International Children's Day.
President Truong Tan Sang meets with disadvantaged children yesterday ahead of International Children's Day on June 1.
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The event has been held at the Presidential Palace in Ha Noi annually since 2008.Many of the children were from ethnic minorities and all are outstanding students.President Sang told the children that the Government and Party paid special attention to the young generation, especially those from disadvantaged families. He called on them to study well, pursue their dreams and contribute to society.He thanked individuals, organisations and charities that, for the past 22 years, had provided more than VND4 trillion (US$188 million) to the Viet Nam Fund for Children. This had helped more than 28 million children over the years.He asked all localities to increase their support for children and education and to connect donors with children and encourage the private sector to join in. Timing and solutions to sue China in int’l court Vietnam is considering various legal options available in crafting its response to the blatant illegal placement by China of its oil rig Haiyang Shiyou-981 inside Vietnam‘s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.Minister and Government Office Chairman Nguyen Van Nien shared this view at a regular cabinet meeting on May 29 in Hanoi while responding to questions raised by two major international media agencies AP and Reuters about Vietnam‘s possible use of legal means in the Chinese situation.In regard to Vietnam‘s preparations for a lawsuit against China, Minister Nien said when bringing the lawsuit to the International Court of Justice or the International Court of Arbitration, legal documents and timing are important considerations, but there are still other ramifications that must be taken into account. "We are calculating and strategizing and it is impossible to give an answer at this time as to how exactly the legal process will play out" said Minister Nen. Regarding questions from the two foreign news agencies about PM Nguyen Tan Dung‘s recent working visit to the Philippines, Minister Nen once again confirmed, ― When the country needs, all Vietnamese people show their patriotism and leaders express their capacity anytime and anywhere. As the head of the Government, PM Dung demonstrated his attitude and contributed his voice to make the whole world understand the country‘s consistent stance and spirit.‖During the two trips to Myanmar and the Philippines, all members of the Vietnamese delegation led by PM Nguyen Tan Dung are the ones capable of exchanging with international friends to help them gain a better understanding about Vietnam‘s stance and resolute struggle.Over the recent time, to express their indignation over China‘s infringement on sea and island sovereignty, the Vietnamese people have gathered and rallied to hold marches to express their attitude.
Expressing patriotism and love for the homeland is legitimate and must be respected. However, if the expression is beyond control leading to inconsiderate actions is not acceptable. So, in this situation, under the direction of the Politburo and the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Public Security has rapidly directed local police to prevent and arrest extremists and law-breakers.The security sector has prosecuted over 100 cases in three provinces (Binh Duong, Dong Nai and Ha Tinh) and while handling this problem, the sector ensure no violation of human rights and the right person and true crime to handle according to law, Nen said.
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About the question that the Government will consider setting up a Ministry responsible for long-term struggle with China to defend the country‘s sea and island sovereignty, Minister Nen said, ―Vietnam has long since prepared for struggle at sea. The government has also assigned a specialized section of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work, study and invite foreign experts to consult and perform this task. "Concerning the worst case that from now until August 15, China will not withdraw its oil rig, Minister Nen quoted PM Nguyen Tan Dung as saying; ―First, we continue to struggle by peaceful means and show our goodwill on diplomatic forums. Second, we continue calling on China to move its oil rig and escort ships out of the Vietnamese waters. This must be done increasingly stronger while preventing instigators‘ provocation.The PM has suggested disseminating information abroad aiming to convey all the facts, and current developments through images or languages to enlist the support of the international community.―We believe that a big country like China, if it wants to survive as a superpower in the true sense, it must abide by the law‖ Nen concluded.
VNN/VOV/VNS/VNA Tags:APTERR activities,natural disasters,investment climate,outstanding students,
Louisiana Rice Community Named Yellow Rail Capital of the World THORNWELL, LA - The unique and positive relationship between birds and working rice lands has received a great deal of media and government attention recently thanks to the efforts of the USA Rice Federation, other industry groups, and conservation partners like Ducks Unlimited (see USA Rice Daily May 6 and May 27, 2014). Now another aspect of the relationship is cemented with the naming of Thornwell, Louisiana as the Yellow Rail Capital of the World, thanks to the passage of Louisiana House of Representatives Concurrent Resolution 42, authored by Representative John E. Guinn of Jennings. For the past six years, the community of about 250 residents has hosted the annual Yellow Rails and Rice Festival, which brings birders from around the world together with rice farmers to highlight the role of Louisiana's working wetlands in providing critical habitat to wetland-dependent wildlife, while providing participants a unique venue to view the elusive Yellow Rail. "The designation will have an impact on our local economy. Every festival brings thousands of dollars back into Jeff Davis and surrounding parishes," said Louisiana Rice Promotion Board Chairman Kevin Berken. Berken, one of the festival's founders, worked closely with Representative Guinn to secure the legislative designation.According to the resolution, Thornwell represents the epicenter of yellow rail distribution in the southwestern rice fields and the Yellow Rails and Rice Festival brings birdwatchers and rice farmers together during Louisiana's late rice harvest, giving individuals an opportunity to witness rice harvesting operations and to see the elusive bird.
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"It think it's fantastic that Thornwell is being recognized, and I look forward to announcing it to all the people who have participated in the festival in the past and shown such interest," festival organizer Donna Dittman said. "It will be a good draw to people to come to Louisiana," This year's festival is October 29-November 2, and Berken hopes to have the community's landmark blue water tower painted to depict its new title in time for the festival.USA Rice Federation is an annual sponsor of the event. Contact: Randy Jemison (337) 515-7250
ME Group/Closing Rough Rice Futures CME Group (Prelim): Closing Rough Rice Futures for May 30
Month
Price
Net Change
July 2014
$14.985
- $0.040
September 2014
$14.375
- $0.015
November 2014
$14.485
- $0.025
January 2015
$14.620
- $0.040
March 2015
$14.800
- $0.035
May 2015
$14.800
- $0.035
July 2015
$14.800
- $0.035
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Rice industry caught in flux Chan Muyhong The rice industry's quest for greater quality at lower cost reached a dead end yesterday at a conference in Phnom Penh, with exporters and farmers polarised on how to achieve greater returns for the industry.The workshop, titled "Improving Rice Value Chain and Enhancing Farmers‘ Livelihoods", was attended by more than 70 farmer representatives, businesses and government officials. On one side exporters want farmers to provide a better-quality rice grain, but on the other, farmers cannot afford the premium to pay for the higher-quality seed.Hun Lak, president of rice exporter Mekong Oryaza Trade, urged farmers to be more selective when choosing their seeds to produce better-quality rice.―Good-quality rice can be sold at a higher price,‖ he said. ―Quality rice can also help [rice exporters] to find markets easier and also help us to compete in the market.‖Fellow exporters and rice millers supported Lak‘s view, including Vong Bunheng, president of Heng Heng Rice Miller, who said millers cannot continue to pay farmers for poor-quality rice.―Buyers only want the long and less chalky rice. Currently only 30 per cent of stock is salable as premium grade. Where can I sell the remaining 60 per cent?‖ he said. Kan Vesna, a farmers representative from Battambang province, rebutted the millers concerns, saying millers systematically reducing prices across the industry created little incentive for farmers to improve their crops.―Using quality seed and proper farming techniques means higher production costs, and if they are going to sell their paddy at the same price as other farmers, why should they do it?‖ he argued.Ly Eng, another farmers representative from Battambang, said a lack of funds to afford good seeds meant standards would remain the same.―Good selection seeds are expensive, and most of the farmers‘ knowledge with farming technique is still very limited,‖ he said.Eng called on rice millers to lift their buying price.―When you give higher prices, farmers can use the money to improve their farming.
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Farmers will be able to cease practising outdated, traditional farming techniques,‖ he added.Hean Vanhorn, the deputy director for the General Department of Agriculture, said the farming community should come together and stock quality seed for future harvests.―It starts with a strong rice-farmer community. [The government] will be able to provide help to train farmers on farming techniques,‖ he said, adding that the government wouldn‘t subsidise seed.―I have listened to the comments of the speakers here. They are all very good, but to answer our question on how to get farmers to use quality seed – after the discussion this morning, it is not still answered yet,‖ said farmers representative Eng at the close of the debate.
Image: Labourers pour rice onto a mat for drying at a farm in Kandal‘s Muk Kampoul district in March. Hong Menea
No Such Thing As GMO Contamination' Rules Australian Court in Landmark Decision, Rebuffing Organic Activists As the Genetic Literacy Project reports, in an endorsement of the co-existence of genetically modified and organic farming, the Western Australian Supreme Court today rejected claims by a farmer who contended that his organic certified farm was ―contaminated‖ by a neighboring farmer growing GM canola.―I am not satisfied that in 2010 Mr. Baxter breached any (lesser) duty of reasonable care,‖ Justice Kenneth Martin wrote in his judgment. Organic farmer Steve Marsh had sued his neighbor and former friend, Michael Baxter, claiming that GM canola from Baxter‘s land had drifted onto his organic oats, rye and sheep farm in Kojonup, Western Australia. The National Association of Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA) temporarily suspended Marsh‘s organic certification on about 70 percent of his property in late 2010. Marsh sought financial compensation of $85,000 (AU) from Baxter, as well as a permanent court injunction banning Baxter from planting GM crops.
Unlike the United States, the European Union and Japan, which allow trace amounts of GMO crops in
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organic foods in acknowledgement of cross pollination by wind or pollen transfer, Australia maintains a zero threshold.Anti-GMO groups have gotten a lot of traction by branding cross pollination as ―contamination.‖ Cross pollination occurs naturally but is considered unacceptable to organic purists, who want organic crops to be completely free of pollen from GM crops and want those demands incorporated into legislation.Recently, voters in two southern Oregon counties approved measures to ban the cultivation of GM crops based on ―contamination‖ concerns. The Marsh versus Baxter case has attracted global attention as it sheds light on how ―contamination‖ claims by organic farmers might be received in other courts. In the 150-page judgment summary, Justice Martin wrote there had been no unreasonable interference with Marsh‘s crops. He found that the decision to withdraw organic certification was made by the Australian organic certifying bodies NASAA/NCO and it was that decision and not natural cross pollination that cost Marsh about $85,000 (AU) in reduced income.―Mr. Baxter was not to be held responsible as a broadacre farmer merely for growing a lawful GM crop and choosing to adopt a harvest methodology (swathing), which was entirely orthodox in its implementation,‖ he wrote.
―Nor could Mr. Baxter be held responsible, in law, for the reactions to the incursion of the Marshes‘ organic certification body, NCO, which in the circumstances presented to be an unjustifiable reaction to what occurred.‖ Martin added there was ―a very strong body of evidence in this trial to suggest that there was no legitimate contractual basis for NCO to decertify‖ Marsh‘s farm.During the 11-day hearing in February, scientists also testified that Roundup Ready canola swathes were harmless to animals, people and land even if consumed. Organic tolerance standards challenged .The court case has highlighted contradictions in current Australian farming and organic certifying regulations. Professor Rick Roush from Melbourne University‘s School of Land and Environment said he believes the case is unique to Australia, because the Australian organics industry has a zero tolerance to the presence of any GM material in certified organic products. ―In other countries, there is a tolerance for very small levels of legally approved seeds, or pollen, or whatever, to be found in a crop, even in organics,‖ he said. ―In the United States, for example, there are broad-scale examples of GM and organic crops being grown in close proximity. In fact, in some farming operations in the United States the same farmer will be using both GM and organic production.‖The Australian court ruling has no direct impact upon U.S. law. While similar concerns and fears of ―GMO contamination‖ are also widespread among organic farmers in the US, there has been no case in which an organic farmer has lost organic certification because of cross pollination. However, conventional growers have had grain rejected for shipment because of the presence of GMO seeds. The US Department of Agriculture says there is no threshold for the amount of acceptable cross pollination, and handles the concern as such:Unlike many pesticides, there aren‘t specific tolerance levels in the USDA organic regulations for GMOs. As such, National Organic Program policy states that trace amounts of GMOs don‘t automatically mean the farm is in violation of the USDA organic regulations. In these cases, the certifying agent will investigate how the inadvertent presence occurred and recommend how it can be
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better prevented in the future.During a major review in 2011-12, the USDA Advisory Committee on Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture (AC21) endorsed coexistence between farmers growing conventional, organic and genetically modified crops and rejected calls by organic activists for ―zero tolerance‖:Many commenters suggested that we establish a ―threshold‖ for the unintended or adventitious presence of products of excluded methods in organic products. Some commenters argued that a threshold is necessary because, without the mandatory labeling of biotechnology-derived products, organic operations and certifying agents could not be assured that products of excluded methods were not being used. Others argued that, without an established threshold, the regulations would constitute a ―zero tolerance‖ for products of excluded methods, which would be impossible to achieve.We do not believe there is sufficient consensus upon which to establish such a standard at this time. Much of the basic, baseline information about the prevalence of genetically engineered products in the conventional agricultural marketplace that would be necessary to set such a threshold-e.g., the effects of pollen drift where it may be a factor, the extent of mixing at various points throughout the marketing chain, the adventitious presence of genetically engineered seed in nonengineered seed lots-is still largely unknown. Our understanding of how the use of biotechnology in conventional agricultural production might affect organic crop production is even less well developed.Also, as was pointed out in some comments, the testing methodology for the presence of products of excluded methods has not yet been fully validated. Testing methods for some biotechnology traits in some commodities are becoming commercially available. Without recognized methods of testing for and quantifying of all traits in a wide range of food products, however, it would be very difficult to establish a reliable numerical tolerance. That‘s similar to the policy adopted by the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movement (IFOAM):Organic certification shall not imply it is a ‗GE-free‘ certification. Rather it shall be presented as guaranteeing ‗production without GE/GMOs‘. As there is no guarantee that organic products are 100% free … Organic producers and associations shall actively inform the consumers of this fact to insure fair marketing claims and to avoid future debates about consumer deception.Ben Copeman, general manager with Australian organic certifying organization NASAA, said his organization is working with farmer groups to figure out how different types of farming, including GM and organic farming, can co-exist in harmony going forward. He added that he is not opposed to a review of organic standards, including the zero tolerance on GM organisms, provided it takes into consideration what organic consumers want.Anti-GM campaigners reacted in outrage, claiming that the verdict sets a dangerous precedent because it leaves the use of GM crops largely unrestricted. Scott Kinnear, director of the Safe Food Foundation which funded Marsh‘s campaign, said he is very disappointed and gravely concerned for the farmer, his family and farm, and for the future of organic and non-GM food in Australia remaining GM-free. Marsh said that he is considering an appeal.John Snooke, director of Pastoral and Graziers Association in Western Australia, welcomed the court‘s decision, as there were more than 1,000 GM farmers in the region. He added that Marsh should have pursued the organic certification process, and not his neighbor.―What it means is the grains industry has certainty, that the protocols and the regulations we operate under cater for
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every type of farming in Australia,‖ he said. ―The court has vindicated all farmers who choose to grow GM canola.‖NOTE: XiaoZhi Lim, agricultural editor of the Genetic Literacy Project, co-authored this report More on biotechnology, genetics and science literacy at the Genetic Literacy Project.Jon Entine, executive director of the Genetic Literacy Project, is a senior fellow at the Center for Health & Risk Communication and STATS (Statistical Assessment Service) at George Mason University.Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Updated Forecast for U.S. Agricultural Exports USDA Office of Communications sent this bulletin at 05/29/2014 04:09 PM EDT Contact:Office of Communications (202)720-4623
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Updated Forecast for U.S. Agricultural Exports WASHINGTON, May 29, 2014 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture today released its Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade report. USDA projects that Fiscal Year 2014 agricultural exports will reach $149.5 billion, an estimated $6.9 billion higher than previous estimates and, if realized, a new record for American agricultural exports. Today's report indicates that the record growth is due not just to rising prices, which have driven export numbers in the past, but also to an increase in the volume of U.S. agricultural exports, which is projected to increase by 31 percent between Fiscal Years 2013 and 2014.Last Fiscal Year, agricultural exports reached $140.9 billion and supported nearly one million jobs here at home. Fiscal Years 2009 to 2013 represent the strongest five years in history for agricultural trade, with U.S. agricultural product exports totaling $619 billion over those five years.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the following statement on this report:"American farmers and ranchers are on track for another year of record exports, which builds on the past five years of the strongest agricultural trade in our history. This report indicates that the volume of U.S. agricultural exports has increased, which demonstrates an increasing global appetite for high-quality, American-grown products."USDA will continue to focus its efforts on tapping into new markets for what is grown and made in rural America. Today, only one percent of U.S. companies export, and yet 95 percent of the world's consumers live outside the borders of the United States, creating significant opportunities for U.S. food and agriculture.Thanks to resources in the 2014 Farm Bill, USDA is able to continue support for trade promotion and market expansion for U.S. agricultural products overseas—programs that return $35 in economic benefits for every dollar invested. In addition, the Administration's Made in Rural America initiative, launched by President Obama at the 2014 Farm Bill signing, will further these efforts by helping rural businesses and leaders access federal resources to help them connect with new customers and markets abroad."Collectively, these efforts will ensure that America's farmers and ranchers are well positioned to capitalize on emerging export markets and continue to drive economic growth in rural America."USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).
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