Saturday, July 25, 2020

25th July,2020 Daily Global Regional Local Rice E-Newsletter

akistan must retain same level of market access with UK after BREXIT: FPCCI

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Description: Pakistan must retain same level of market access with UK after BREXIT: FPCCI

 

Online

8:18 PM | July 24, 2020

Pakistan must have same level of market access with UK after BREXIT which Pakistan is enjoying with EU, this was stated by Sheikh Sultan Rehman Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI).

He was speaking to a webinar on “Impact of BREXIT on Trade and Economy of Pakistan” organised by FPCCI Head Office Karachi, Regional Office Lahore and Capital Office Islamabad via Zoom Video Conference.

Sheikh Sultan Rehman stated that there was a historical referendum in UK in 2016 wherein the people of UK voted against remaining in EU which created a wave of shock and caused loss of US$ 2 trillion in a day.

He added that UK plays a key role in economic and social development of Pakistan. At present, the balance of trade between Pakistan and UK is in favor of Pakistan. Pakistan’s exports to UK stood at US$ 1.7 billion and Pakistan is mainly exporting textiles cotton fabrics, knitwear, readymade garments, bed wear and rice to UK.

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He stated that currently the trade between Pakistan and UK is going on under EU GSP Plus scheme which will end for UK from January 01, 2021. He also urged Pakistani Government to sign Bilateral Investment Treaty with UK.

TDAP GSP Plus Advisor Kamal Shahryar stated that the negotiation between Pakistan and UK is continuing for getting the similar facility which Pakistan is enjoying under EU GSP Plus. He stated that UK has not shared conditionality’s’ of new trade agreement but in principle agreed for similar level of facilities. He added that after BREXIT the border trade with EU will not take place for moving goods in EU member countries. UK has started revision of its MFN tariff for all countries which will also benefit Pakistan.

Zakaria Usman, Former President FPCCI emphasized to finalize the agreement with UK as Pakistani exporters have made huge investment in textile sector in accordance to EU GSP plus requirements which should not be affected with BREXIT.

More review petitions filed regarding verdict in Justice Qazi Faez Isa case

 

Asim Yousuf, Vice President Pakistan UK Chamber of Commerce and Industry added that there are huge opportunities for Pakistan’s export in agriculture, textile and food items to UK. In this context, there is a need of early formulation of Pakistan’s trade delegation to UK for getting new orders from UK. Moreover, Pakistani community in UK also plays a crucial role in Pak-UK Trade and at present, 80% of our trade with UK is conducted by Pakistani companies.

Sheikh Muhammad Tariq, Chairman Pakistan UK Business Council of FPCCI informed about the registration of his company for filing of custom declaration service from January 2021. After completion of BREXIT transition period, additional more than 250 million custom declarations will be filed and processed.

He also urged Pakistan to comply with standards and SPS measures as UK is importing 1.2 million ton of meat. He also underlined the need of developing Pakistani business center in UK as UK is establishing business hub wherein all the countries are establishing their offices.

IHC detests CDA officials non-appearance in Aleem Khan's housing society

 

Shariq Vohra underscored the need of research for enhancing exports to potentials market as our Pakistan export is stagnant for 10 years.

Qaisra Sheikh Coordination Women Enterpreneurs emphasized on the development of mechanism for transformation of informal trade into formal trade as most of the women are exporting to UK informally. She also suggested expanding the list of product mix for enhancement of exports.

The participants also stated that SBP should sign agreement with central bank of England for trading in property of UK on collateral basis as like India has signed. This agreement will also facilitate transfer of remittances from UK to Pakistan. Moreover UK should also follow REX system after BREXIT which is convenient to Pakistani exporters.

https://nation.com.pk/24-Jul-2020/pakistan-must-have-same-level-of-market-access-with-uk-after-brexit-speakers

 

Saudi Arabia building first grain terminal at Yanbu Commercial Port

BY STAFF WRITER

 24 JUL 2020

NEWS

SALAAM GATEWAY


Saudi Arabia is building its first grain terminal at the port of Yanbu.

The Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) and the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) will develop the 313,000 square-metre terminal, state news agency SPA reported on Thursday (July 23).

“The Yanbu grain project aims to build the first regional centre and logistic platform for importing, processing and exporting grains in KSA,” said MAWANI chairperson and Saudi minister of transport, Saleh bin Nasser Al Jasser.

The terminal will have a capacity of 5 million tons annually.

SALIC is owned by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund. Details of the investment were not disclosed.

SALIC chairperson Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Mohsen Al Fadhli said the company relies on the geographical location of the Kingdom and the port infrastructure for overall food distribution solutions in the region by linking Saudi Arabia to global grain sources, especially countries where SALIC is currently investing.

Yanbu Commercial Port lies on the Red Sea coast, facing the northeastern and eastern coasts of Africa. It is considered the nearest major Saudi port to Europe and North America.

SALIC’s priority investment destinations for key grains are: rice - Pakistan and Australia; corn - Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, USA, and Romania; and for barley - Canada, Australia France, the Black Sea region and the Balkans, it says on its website.

Saudi Arabia imported $2.81 billion in grains in 2019, according to data from the United Nations’ ITC Trade Map. Most of these were rice ($1.415 billion), maize or corn ($715,322), and barley ($541,762).

Its top trading partner for rice was India, followed by Pakistan, USA, Thailand, and Australia. Its maize or corn mainly came from Argentina, Brazil, USA, Paraguay, and Yemen, and it imported most of its barley from Argentina, the Russian Federation, Ukraine, Estonia, and Romania.

Yanbu Commercial Port currently handles imports that include general cargo, containers, bulk and bagged fertilisers, bulk feed, and petroleum coal, according to its website. It houses two silos for bulk material storage with a capacity of 20,000 tons per unit.

Saudi Arabia’s total 2019-20 grains imports is estimated at 14.2 million tons, up from 13.5 million tons the year before, according to the International Grains Council. The IGC forecasts the same level of imports for 2020-21. Its data point to 14.8 million tons in grain consumption in the Kingdom in 2019-20 and it sees this number rising to 15.2 million tons for 2020-21.

© SalaamGateway.com 2020 All Rights Reserved

https://www.salaamgateway.com/story/saudi-arabia-building-first-grain-terminal-at-yanbu-commercial-port

Aquaculture and agriculture: Sustaining Goa’s promise for fish, curry and rice

 

Lands under estuarine agricultural system, called Khazan farming, are in state of decay 

 

By Aaron Savio Lobo

Last Updated: Friday 24 July 2020

 An aerial view of mangroves reclaiming khazan lands because of breaching bunds. Photo: Jason Taylor

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is Goa’s smallest protected area — it comprises barely two square kilometres of lush mangrove forests. The sanctuary is located on Chorão, one of Goa’s estuarine islands in the Mandovi river approximately five kilometres from capital Panaji. This little gem of a mangrove park receives its fair share of visitors, primarily birds.

But this ecosystem supports much more. The sanctuary and its surrounds is home to marsh crocodiles, smooth-coated otter, the unique glossy-marsh snake that feeds on crabs, mud lobsters, sap-sucking sea slugs, among others.

A walk on its nature trail will take one through an almost meditative patch of Indian mangroves (Avicennia officinalis) characterised by their thick, white trunks. All one hears is the clicking sounds of the pistol shrimp and the hum of the ferry boats that bring passengers to Chorão, and whose raucous jetty is near the sanctuary’s entrance.

It may come as a bit of surprise to know that the sanctuary’s “primeval” forest until the 1970s was still largely privately owned rice fields. The sanctuary represents a conservation success in many ways, demonstrating that even degraded spaces (in ecological terms), if given sufficient time, can restore themselves to their former glory.

In fact, the sanctuary, like most other low-lying floodplains of Goa, was characterised by an estuarine agricultural system called Khazan farming. This system is a carefully designed topo-hydro-engineered agro-aquacultural ecosystem mainly based on the regulation salinity and tides.

Centuries ago, people in this region reclaimed low-lying brackish coastal floodplains and mangrove forests. They constructed bunds using locally available material to prevent the ingress of salt water, which killed the halophilic mangroves.

To control the flow of tidal waters, they built openings in bunds fitted with sluice gates. These gates acted as one way valves, allowing water from the main backwaters to enter the specially dug channels (poiems) around the fields. These channels would fill in with the oncoming tide and bring with them fish, crab and shrimp, and the gates would automatically shut when the water level was equal on both sides.

This prevented the water from overflowing into the fields used to grow paddy and which has a low tolerance to salt. When the tide receded, the sluice gates would open outwards automatically, allowing the water from the poiems to drain out. During this time, a bag net was set at the sluice gate to catch fish that had entered in earlier.

Everything has a place in the system — while well-managed khazan lands would not have mangroves growing within them, they were allowed to continue to flourish along the outer banks of the bund and the banks of the backwater or the estuary, because their significance for artisanal fisheries as fish nurseries was well understood.

Every bit of space was precious and used efficiently — the bunds were used to grow a variety of vegetables. The Khazan system allowed for the farmer and the fisher to harmoniously coexist and was the key to sustaining what is considered Goa’s staple — fish, curry and rice.

Today, for various reasons, but primarily due to post-independence agrarian reforms of 1961, these lands largely lie fallow and are in a state of decay. Lack of cultivation and maintenance of the bunds and sluice gates is leading to their breaching and the natural reclamation of these fallow lands by mangroves.

While several regions around the world have witnessed precipitous decline in their mangroves, their decline is witnessing an increase in Goa, according to data published by the Forest Survey of India.

Moreover, mangroves are protected by law and it is illegal to cut them. Areas that have these trees growing on them also come under the purview of coastal regulation zone (CRZ); according to the 2011 notification, the mangrove areas are classified as CRZ I and cannot be developed upon.

Many of Goa’s communities look at this as a threat to the future of food production. This has led to the illegal and, often unnecessary, destruction of mangroves, with patched often being cleared under the metaphorical cover of darkness.

In a bid to restore Goa’s agriculture, the water resource department took up the job of repairing the breached embankments. A far cry from the indigenous materials and methods employed, the previous mud-laterite-straw bunds were replaced by concrete ones, building them much higher and wider than they were earlier. 

However, it is the failure to understand that it is not new technology, rather well-organised communities that keep this system thriving, has not resulted in any change in the status quo. While these concrete bunds were successful in preventing salt ingress and killing the mangroves, many fields that were intended to be restored continue to remain inundated with dead and leafless mangrove stumps.

Lack of community land use and bund maintenance has led to these concrete bunds being misused. Built to withstand the test of time, they are now falling apart in many areas and the mangroves are making inroads into the fields once again.

The fields, which once fed entire communities, are languishing as salty waste lands. The concrete bunds lying in a state of misuse have led to a whole range of other collateral impacts.  Many of them are broad enough for vehicles to drive on them, allowing anglers and revellers access pristine spots they could not access earlier. 

Many of these areas are now littered with beers bottles and garbage that is usually a sad by-product of the modern consumer. Another issue is that the fields have been lying fallow for too long, and are being treated as waste lands.

Some recommendations include converting Khazans to other forms of land use, bringing them under more profitable intensive aquaculture that threatened these lands in the 80’s and 90’s, but was later brought under some control. Some Khazan areas are being filled with earth and concrete debris illegally in a bid to prep them up for construction works.

With the ongoing novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, Goa is witnessing a spate of community-led farming initiatives. People who have never farmed before are getting their hands and feet dirty and many fallow lands are being cultivated.

It would make sense acquainting ourselves with this unique system developed and fine-tuned over the centuries by our ancestors through continuous tinkering. We really have a whole wealth of knowledge to fall back on. Building up from here rather than reinventing the wheel would be the way to go

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/wildlife-biodiversity/aquaculture-and-agriculture-sustaining-goa-s-promise-for-fish-curry-and-rice-72460

Indonesia wheat imports slip

Photo: Adobe stock

07.24.2020

By Holly Demaree-Saddler

JAKARTA, INDONESIA — Lowered demand and coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions decrease Indonesia’s wheat and rice imports, according to a Global Agricultural Information Network report from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Following the COVID-19 outbreak in March, Indonesia implemented social distancing measures. It affected restaurants, hotels and the foodservice sector across the country, slowing overall consumption, including wheat flour.

The USDA estimates Indonesia’s 2019-20 marketing year wheat imports to fall to 10.6 million tonnes and wheat for feed use to decrease to 1.8 million tonnes. Imports are expected to recover in the 2020-21 marketing year.

A prolonged dry season delayed Indonesia from planting rice but the dryness has led to less pest and disease issues boosting production. Rice production for the country is projected to jump to 34 million tonnes in the 2019-20 marketing year while imports lowered due to increased domestic corn production.

Indonesian corn yields are rebounding after recovering from the Fall Army Worm. The USDA forecasts 2019-20 marketing year corn production to increase to 12 million tonnes. The country’s corn production has almost doubled since 2010 as feed mills raise demand and better pest and disease management has improved yields.

Follow our breaking news coverage of the coronavirus/COVID-19 situation.

https://www.world-grain.com/articles/14003-indonesia-wheat-imports-slip

 

CHINA’S H1 GRAIN IMPORTS SPIKE, ON PATH TO USE UP ANNUAL QUOTAS

 

7/24/2020

By Hallie Gu and Tony Munroe

BEIJING, July 24 (Reuters) - China has accelerated grains buying from abroad in the first half of 2020 and may fully use up its annual quotas for corn and wheat imports for the first time ever, traders and analysts said this week. China, the world’s top agricultural market, imported 3.66 million tonnes of corn from January to June, 51% of its annual quota for the grain set at 7.2 million tonnes, according to customs data released on Thursday. Wheat imports came at 3.35 million tonnes, 35% of its yearly quota at 9.64 million tonnes, the data showed.

Last year, China only used 67% of its annual quota for corn and one-third of its yearly wheat quota.

The import surge has increased expectations that China will fully use up its corn and wheat quotas for the year for the first time, said a source with knowledge of China’s agricultural buying.

“The market is expecting China to import close to 10 million tonnes of corn this calendar year,” said the source, who declined to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter. “Mainly to fulfil the phase 1 trade deal with U.S.”

China has stepped up purchases of U.S. farm goods in recent weeks, including booking record volumes of corn, for delivery in both the 2019/20 and 2020/21 crop year.

The move also follows gains in Chinese corn prices because of tightening domestic supplies and falling stockpiles.

“Not all of that (U.S. corn) necessarily will get shipped in 2020, but given the volumes, it seems like China can fill the tariff quota for corn,” said Darin Friedrichs, senior analyst at StoneX.

Importers have also been actively buying wheat from U.S. and Australia lately, said two Chinese grain traders.

“Chances are high that China will be close to using up all the annual TRQs for wheat this year,” said one of the traders, based at a state-owned firm.

China allows a certain volume of imports of rice, corn, and wheat through a tariff rate quota (TRQ) system, under which importers can buy specified volumes with duties as low as 1%, compared with 65% without the quotas.

(Reporting by Hallie Gu and Tony Munroe. Editing by Shivani Singh and Christian Schmollinger.)

© Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020. Click For Restrictions - http://about.reuters.com/fulllegal.asp

https://www.agriculture.com/markets/newswire/chinas-h1-grain-imports-spike-on-path-to-use-up-annual-quotas

Invasive species of snail adversely affecting crawfish, rice crops in Louisiana

Description: Invasive species of snail adversely affecting crawfish, rice crops in Louisiana

Crawfish pond (Source: WAFB)

By Rachael Thomas and Matt Houston | July 22, 2020 at 2:47 PM CDT - Updated July 23 at 7:12 PM

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - A foreign, invasive species of snail has infested a handful of fields in southwestern Louisiana, forcing some farmers to reseed entire rice crops and scale back crawfish production.

The Apple Snail eats at young rice plants and thrives in moist environments. Farmers say the snails are clogging their crawfish traps, forcing workers to sort through their catches so snails are not sold with the mudbugs.

“They’ve cost us quite a bit of money and a lot of extra effort over time,” Kaplan farmer Christian Richard said. “Our guys do a good job. It just takes them twice as long to run traps. So if a guy is half is productive, that definitely affects the bottom line as well.”

In just two days, Snails decimated a 100-acre crop of rice on Richard’s farm. He had to start the crop over, reseeding at roughly $150 per acre.

“There’s not much of a way to combat them that doesn’t adversely affect the crop that we’re growing,” Richard said. “They seem to love water and if you’re growing rice and you’re growing crawfish - these fields are flooded.”

The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) says the apple snail first appeared in a bayou in Gretna in 2006 and quickly infested ponds, bayous, and streams in about 30 parishes across the state. The LSU AgCenter says the snail has impacted crawfish farms in Vermilion, Acadia, and Jefferson Davis parishes.

“People would buy these snails for their fish tanks and once they got too big, they would dump them in a local body of water where they’d become established and spread,” LSU AgCenter pest researcher Blake Wilson said.

Wilson said 2016 floodwaters probably carried the snails to farms from the infested Vermillion River.

A single female apple snail can produce up to 10,000 offspring each year. They lay their eggs in bright pink clusters on the stalks of the rice plants they eat.

“The eggs are laid at night so you can knock them all off and come back in the morning and there will be more eggs to replace,” Wilson said.

The eggs contain a neurotoxin that irritates the eyes and skin. The snails host the Rat Lungworm parasite that can inflame the tissue around the human brain if consumed.

Farmers can take precautionary measures to prevent infestation by using a dry seeding method. Experts are also checking irrigation systems that farmers often share to ensure the mollusks are not sprayed into new fields during watering.

Once the snails infest a farm, they’re almost impossible to get rid of. Pesticides that kill the snails would also kill the crawfish.

“From what I can see, where they’ve already become established, it’s not going to be a problem that can be eliminated,” Wilson said. “These farmers are going to have to learn to live with it. But we want to limit the number of farms and acres in the state that are impacted.”

LDAF says back in March, the snails reportedly wiped out a 50-acre field of rice, marking the first reported case of the species damaging the crop in Louisiana.

“It is imperative that each of us works diligently to protect Louisiana from these pests. Pests often find their way into the ecosystem by people releasing aquatic animals and ornamental plants in areas they should not,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, DVM. “I urge everyone to be mindful of the damage that can be done when non-native pests and plants are introduced into the environment. Take the giant salvinia, for example. It is an exotic fern from South America that is fast-growing and has wreaked havoc on lakes and ponds by destroying native plants that provide food for animals and also clogs the waterways.”

For more information about invasive species, click here, or call 225-952-8100.

Click here to report a typo.

Copyright 2020 WAFB. All rights reserved.

https://www.kplctv.com/2020/07/23/invasive-species-snail-adversely-affecting-crawfish-rice-crops-louisiana/#:~:text=(WAFB)%20%2D%20A%20foreign%2C,and%20thrives%20in%20moist%20environments.

 

Rice tariff collections exceed P10-B target

July 24, 2020 | 5:59 pm

Description: Bureau of Customs (BoC)BW FILE PHOTO

The Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it breached its annual P10-billion rice tariff collection target seven months into the year despite weak imports.

In a statement Friday, the BoC reported rice tariff collections of P10.728 billion between January and July 17, exceeding its annual goal for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which supports governmen efforts to make rice farmers more competitive.

The total exceeds the P9.936 billion collected a year earlier. It noted that the collections were accompanied by lower rice import volumes, which fell 24.6% year-on-year to 1,651.267 metric tons (MT).

“The BoC consistently conducts close monitoring of the declared value on rice importations in view of its strict adherence to global published prices for rice which serve as a guide when the veracity of the declared values is under dispute,” it said in the statement.

In 2019, the BoC collected P12.3 billion from 2.03 million MT of rice imports.

Signed into law in February 2019, Republic Act (RA) No. 11203 or the Rice Import Tariffication Law allowed unrestricted imports by private parties, who need to pay 35% tariffs on Southast Asian grain. The tariffs fund the RCEF budget of P10 billion a year.

The BoC has an overall collection target of P541.7billion this year, reduced from the P730-billion set earlier due to the weak outlook for the economy. — Beatrice M. Laforga

https://www.bworldonline.com/rice-tariff-collections-exceed-p10-b-target/

 

Black Rice vs. Brown Rice: Is One Superior Overall?

Black and brown rice are a common carb source but does one offer an advantage in any way? The short answer is yes, so keeping reading to learn more.

Description: Ash by Ash

 July 24, 2020

in Nutrition

Description: Black Rice Vs. Brown Rice

Black Rice Vs. Brown Rice

Rice is a staple in the diets of fitness-minded (and non-fitness-minded) individuals all over the world. Why? It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and an amazing source of carbohydrates. Whether you’re about to nail an intense workout and need enough energy to sustain your efforts or if you just need an easy nutrition source that’s even easier to prepare, you can’t go wrong with rice.

It can be prepared a million different ways and different countries have historically added their own twist on how they make it. Well today, we’re going to discuss black rice vs. brown rice, which are two popular variations of this cereal grain. 

You’ll be surprised to know that each one provides health benefits but not entirely in the same way.

Here’s some information we think you’d find useful when considering which rice to include in your diet…

https://fitnessvolt.com/black-rice-vs-brown-rice/

Create jobs at source to prevent distress migration, say researchers

STAFF REPORTER

BHUBANESWAR, JULY 25, 2020 06:14 IST

UPDATED: JULY 25, 2020 00:37 IST

Think tank emphasises on State’s role in post-production processing and marketing intervention in the farm sector.

Development Research Institute (DRI), the research wing of the Odisha Gabeshana Chakra, a think tank, has urged the State government to work on employment creation in villages to check distress migration.

In its study, ‘Rights of migrant workers in pandemic context and building a post-COVID economy in Odisha’, the DRI said the problem with out-migration from Odisha is that much of it is distress-induced. Public policy should work towards reducing the vulnerability of migrants who migrate under duress. The best guarantee against such distress migration is employment creation at the origin, it said.

It emphasized on the State’s role in post-production processing and marketing intervention in the farm sector.

“Farmers typically face difficulties in getting remunerative prices for their products. The paddy procurement process should be expanded. Cotton should also be procured and processed by the State agencies. For vegetables, a localised value chain approach linking farmers to markets should be designed and implemented,” it recommended.

Advocating inclusion of tenant farmers in the State-supported programmes, the think-tank said a flexible approach towards the identification of such farmers, such as self-certification, rather than a written contract or consent from the landowner should be followed to include tenant farmers.

The DRI warned that land alienation is likely to increase during the pandemic because of loss of income, rise in the catastrophic health expenditure, deaths and lack of employment.

“Specific measures to redistribute land and safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups, such as Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and women, over land and forests will help reduce the livelihood shock induced by the pandemic,” it said.

Emphasising on the need to organise migrant workers and other vulnerable workers to strengthen their workplace and citizenship rights, the DRI said there should be coordination between trade unions, peasants organisations, and civil society organisations. The pandemic should not be used as an opportunity to dilute labour rights and democratic rights of the citizens, it said.

As part of immediate measures suggested by the DRI, a universal public distribution system with a minimum of 10 kg wheat or rice per person per month and other essential food items, such as pulses, oil, soaps and sugar should be provided to avoid food insecurity.

Before addressing the issues of migrant labourers, the State should focus on collecting, processing and analysing disaggregated information on migrant workers, the DRI said.

The government should considering setting up a special centre for migration research to develop an adequate policy response to the problems faced by migrant workers. Universities should also be encouraged and funded, researchers said.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/create-jobs-at-source-to-prevent-distress-migration-say-researchers/article32187249.ece

 

Rice tariff collections exceed P10-B target

July 24, 2020 | 5:59 pm

Description: Bureau of Customs (BoC)BW FILE PHOTO

The Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it breached its annual P10-billion rice tariff collection target seven months into the year despite weak imports.

In a statement Friday, the BoC reported rice tariff collections of P10.728 billion between January and July 17, exceeding its annual goal for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which supports governmen efforts to make rice farmers more competitive.

The total exceeds the P9.936 billion collected a year earlier. It noted that the collections were accompanied by lower rice import volumes, which fell 24.6% year-on-year to 1,651.267 metric tons (MT).

“The BoC consistently conducts close monitoring of the declared value on rice importations in view of its strict adherence to global published prices for rice which serve as a guide when the veracity of the declared values is under dispute,” it said in the statement.

In 2019, the BoC collected P12.3 billion from 2.03 million MT of rice imports.

Signed into law in February 2019, Republic Act (RA) No. 11203 or the Rice Import Tariffication Law allowed unrestricted imports by private parties, who need to pay 35% tariffs on Southast Asian grain. The tariffs fund the RCEF budget of P10 billion a year.

The BoC has an overall collection target of P541.7billion this year, reduced from the P730-billion set earlier due to the weak outlook for the economy. — Beatrice M. Laforga

https://www.bworldonline.com/rice-tariff-collections-exceed-p10-b-target/

Rs 38-cr paddy missing from millsPosted: Jul 25, 2020 06:52 AM (IST)

Description: Rs 38-cr paddy missing from mills

State agencies procure more paddy than what is produced by farmers.

Bhartesh Singh Thakur
Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, July 24

The physical verification of rice mills in Haryana has detected a shortfall of 18,883.90 MT paddy worth around Rs 38 crore, drawing attention once again to ghost purchase in the state.

As many as 208 rice mills in the state delivered less than 90 per cent custom milled rice (CMR). This week, physical verification was completed in these mills, and 98 mills were found to have paddy shortfall.

Ghost purchase

·         State agencies procure more paddy than what is produced by farmers

·         It is purchased only on paper in connivance with millers, arhtiyas and govt agencies.

·         Millers cover shortfall of custom milled rice by taking PDS rice from other states

In Kurukshetra, 11,960 MT paddy was found short in 39 mills, while the shortfall was 4,046 MT in 47 Karnal mills and 2,863 MT in seven Kaithal mills. In three mills of Ambala, 8.65 MT paddy was found short, while it was 6.25 MT in two mills of Yamunanagar.

Earlier, close to 42,589 MT was found short during physical verification in December-January and a penalty of Rs 80-85 crore was collected from rice millers.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/rs-38-cr-paddy-missing-from-mills-117592

Rice millers need not visit any office for online registration: Ashu

Online registration has been facilitated on anaajkharid.in to avert the possibility of spread of covid 19, says Punjab minister

CITIES Updated: Jul 24, 2020 20:32 IST

 

HT Correspondent

Hindustan Times, Chandigarh

Chandigarh Punjab food and civil supplies minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu on Friday appealed all rice millers of the state not to visit any district and field office for any work related with registration.

He added elaborate arrangement had been made for online registration of rice mills on https://anaajkharid.in to avert the possibility of spread of covid 19 and to bring about transparency. He added no office was to be visited for works regarding Registration of New Rice Mills; Capacity Enhancement of existing Rice Mills; De novo Registration in case of change of Partnership/Constitution of Rice Mills; Registration of Lessee Rice Mills; Submission of CMR Security; Submission of Levy Security; Application to issue Release Order and Online deposit of Non-refundable RO fee, and others.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/rice-millers-need-not-visit-any-office-for-online-registration-ashu/story-dmGGgV4ydW3CUAFJM6mtRI.html

 

 

Middlemen earn crores by diverting PDS rice PV Satyanarayana Hans News Service |

 24 July 2020 11:00 PM IST x PDS rice seized by Task Force police in Khammam (File Photo)  HIGHLIGHTS Public Distribution System (PDS) rice, meant to be distributed to the people living below poverty line, is taking sidetrack and earning crores of rupees for middlemen Khammam: Public Distribution System (PDS) rice, meant to be distributed to the people living below poverty line, is taking sidetrack and earning crores of rupees for middlemen. Thanks to the officials, who supposed to prevent the illegal transportation of PDS rice, are turning a blind eye to these illegal activities. It is learnt that middlemen are transporting the PDS rice to rice millers and to some beer manufacturing units and earning huge profits. A middleman, who don't want to disclose his name, said that they purchase rice from ration shop dealers and beneficiaries for Rs 5 per kg and sell the same for Rs 14 to Rs 15 per kg. The middlemen have been transporting the rice to Andhra Pradesh through vehicles and some rice is being shifted to port in Kakinada of Andhra Pradesh. Illegal transportation of PDS rice to other States became a big business and more middle people are entering into this trade, which is giving huge profits. Of late, illegal rice transportation was slowed down due to police checking, but earlier it was a very profitable business. It was said that middlemen will visit colonies and small hamlets and collect rice from poor people by paying Rs 3 to Rs 5 per kg and shift the rice to a stock point. Later, this rice will be transported to another State in bulk quantities. The illegal business is rampant during ration distribution period. A Raju, resident of Khammam, said that PDS rice is not edible, which is thick, hence they will sell it to middlemen, who come to their doorsteps to purchase. "We will buy fine rice in the market to consume," he added. It's learnt most of the people, who are getting PDS rice, are not eating it and prefer to sell it to either ration shop dealers or middlemen. The State government had introduced a biometric system to control bogus cards but ration shop dealers are taking fingerprints of the beneficiaries by paying Rs 3 to Rs 5 per kg and selling it to middlemen for Rs 7 to Rs 10 per kg. Police task force registered as many as 37 cases and seized PDS rice worth Rs 42 lakh in recent days. Task Force Assistant Commissioner of Police Ganta Venkata Rao said, "We are keeping an eye on middlemen and nabbing them while shifting the rice". We will increase vigil on illegal rice transportation and nab the culprits, he added.

https://www.thehansindia.com/telangana/khammam-middlemen-earn-crores-by-diverting-pds-rice-635404

 

Nigeria: Rice Farmers Begin Sale of Paddy to Kano Millers

 

24 JULY 2020

Daily Trust (Abuja)

 

By Ibrahim Musa Giginyu

Kano — The Kano chapter of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) on Thursday commenced the sale of paddy rice funded under the federal government's agricultural intervention Anchor Borrower Programme (ABP) at a price lower to Kano rice millers.

Speaking during the sale, the RIFAN Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Haruna Aliyu, disclosed that the association had, under its recovery processes of the anchor borrower programme in the state recovered over 60, 000 bags of paddy adding that, the association has since commenced sales of the paddy to rice mills across the state.

"Today we are witnessing sales of the recovered paddy to small and medium scale rice mills in the state. The good news here is that, this is coming at a point when the federal government under the CBN has issued guidelines on non-interest loans to SMEs and this will enable the rice mills to strengthen their capacity as we are selling the paddy below the open market price," said the chairman.

According to him, the process will be an ongoing proceeding as the association keeps making recovery.

He charged beneficiaries of the ABP in the state that have not started making repayment to do so with immediate effect as the association has begun prosecuting defaulters.

https://allafrica.com/stories/202007240054.html

 

___

Govt to procure more goods from local producers – Ofori-Atta

Ken Ofori-Atta, Finance Minister


Click to read all about coronavirus →

The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta has told Parliament on Thursday July 23 that the government will expand procurement from local producers for its goods and services. Description: Ken Ofori-Atta, Finance Minister

Presenting the mid year budget statement to the House, he said : “Government will inject liquidity into the system to ease cash flow difficulties of businesses and protect workers by honouring obligations to contractors and suppliers in a timely manner.

“Building on recent good experience of sourcing from the pharmaceuticals and textile & garment sectors, Government will expand procurement from local producers for its goods and services.”

Government will intensify support for farmers through the Planting for Food and Jobs and Rearing for Food and Jobs programmes,

He further stated that : “We will aggressively facilitate access to financing for rice millers to enable them to purchase paddy from rice farmers.

“In addition, we will provide financial support to the National Buffer Stock Company and Ghana Commodity Exchange to enable them store and trade stocks as needed to smoothen out supplies on the market.”

https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Govt-to-procure-more-goods-from-local-producers-Ofori-Atta-1015789

 

The South and South-East Asia seeds market is projected to register a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period 2020-2025

 

ReportLinker

GlobeNewswireJuly 24, 2020

Several factors such as improvements in the agricultural sector, seed production, trade, and international agreements, along with the developments in seed technology that have increased the momentum of the industry’s growth.

New York, July 23, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "South and South-East Asia Seed Market - Growth, Forecasts and Trends (2020 - 2025)" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934744/?utm_source=GNW
Six countries, namely India, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Bangladesh are considered as the seed hubs, based on the concentration of production, breeding and processing activities by index companies in these countries, among the Southeast Asian region. The Non-GM/Hybrid Seeds? segment has been witnessed to dominate the market owing to the increased demand for food over the past years. To meet this growing demand, the enhancement of crop yield has become a necessity.

The major players in the market are Bayer Crop Science SE, Syngenta International AG, Corteva AgriScience, BASF SE, and Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd among others.

Key Market Trends
Increasing Adoption of Hybrid Seed and Government Support

The willingness and interest to grow hybrid crops are, to a large extent, governed by government legislation and policy in many of the countries studied. Pakistan is both a producer and importer of hybrid crops and products. The Pakistani seed sector is dependent on two key regulations, the Seed Amendment Act 2015 and the Plant Breeders Rights Act 2018. In 2016, the Pakistan National Assembly adopted a Plant Breeders’ Rights Act to encourage the development of new plant varieties and to protect the rights of breeders of such varieties. The Act provides protection for new plant varieties while at the same time respecting the right of farmers to save, use, exchange, and sell farm-saved seeds. This ensures farmers get access to high-quality hybrid seeds alongside being able to use ingeniously produced ones. The rising import of hybrid seeds is a direct impact of these measures. The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Food Security and Research banned the import of genetically modified (GM) seeds of maize, owing to health and environmental issues, in 2019. This may act as a driver for the use of hybrid seeds as an alternative to these GM seeds for keeping the yield constant.

The Non-GM/Hybrid Seeds? Segment Dominate the Market

In the South and Southeast Asian region, the demand for food has increased exponentially over the past years. For the purpose of meeting this demand, enhancement of crop yield has become a necessity by maintaining the safety standards by governments. The Philippines is home to the International Rice Research Institute and is one the most prolific users of hybrid rice seed in the region to meet rising demands. Green Revolution in India has promoted the use of hybrid seeds in India. The fast-growing population in the country has increased the demand for domestically produced hybrid seeds compatible with the climate conditions.

Hybrid rice seeds imported to Pakistan are expensive than that produced locally. The limited landholdings of farmers reduce their ability to purchase these hybrid seeds. The Agricultural Innovation Program launched by the government is expected to increase the adoption of hybrid maize seeds by farmers. This is expected to further increase the domestic hybrid seed production in the country. The use of hybrid seeds has been increasing over the years in the south and southeast Asian region with the increasing global demand for organic products and the need for enhanced crop yield in the region. This continued trend is expected to increase the market for hybrid-non-GMO seeds in the region.

Competitive Landscape
South and South-East Asia seed market is fragmented, because of the presence of a large number of local players marketing certified seeds. However, there are segments within the market, which are consolidated such as in maize and vegetables. The major players in the market are Bayer Crop Science SE, Syngenta International AG, Corteva AgriScience, BASF SE, and Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd among others.

Furthermore, increasing investments in the seed market by prominent companies, are further intensifying the growth of the seed market. For instance, in 2016, Sakata Seed Corporation, a Japan-based company, invested USD 138 million in India, to expand its business operations, which helped in escalating the market share in India.

Reasons to Purchase this report:
- The market estimate (ME) sheet in Excel format
- 3 months of analyst support
Read the full report: 
https://www.reportlinker.com/p05934744/?utm_source=GNW

About Reportlinker
ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/south-south-east-asia-seeds-192400342.html

 

 

Italy to temporarily regularise undocumented Pakistani workers

Italy is home to the largest Pakistani diaspora in the EU

By  Shahzad Paracha

 

Description: https://profit.pakistantoday.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Italy-Pakistan.jpg

ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Pakistan to Italy Jauhar Saleem on Thursday said that the Italian government has decided to temporarily regularise undocumented Pakistani migrants working as agricultural and domestic helpers in the country.

The ambassador of Pakistan to Italy talking to Pakistani and Italian media said that the Italian government has decided to temporarily regularize all undocumented migrants working in Italy’s agricultural sector or as domestic helpers. The workers will also be allowed for health coverage.

Pakistani undocumented workers residing in Italy are set to be among the main beneficiaries of the scheme.

The ambassador said that the Pakistani embassy in Italy is facilitating Pakistani workers to complete their required documentation so that they can benefit from the scheme. He added that the embassy has stayed functional even during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The ambassador further said that Pakistan has registered a visible growth in the Italian market during FY20 despite Covid-19 propelled lockdowns disrupting the global supply chain.

Italy is currently the eighth largest economy in the world and the third-largest economy in the European Union (EU) with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $2 trillion. The country is home to the largest Pakistani diaspora in the EU and is Pakistan’s ninth-largest export destination.

He said that Italy’s economy has been badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The IMF has projected a 9 to 11 per cent contraction in the Italian economy whereas the Italian Central Bank has projected a 9 to 13 per cent decline in Italy’s GDP this year, he added.

The ambassador stated that in FY19 Pakistan had a trade deficit of $164 million with Italy. However, during FY20, despite Covid-19 Pakistan reported a trade surplus with Italy of $210 million. For FY20, Pakistan’s exports to Italy stood at $731 million while imports from Italy stood at $521 million.

Pakistan’s major exports to Italy include textile, leather, rice and ethanol. Pakistan currently holds a 38 per cent share in the Italian rice market. The ambassador further stressed on the need to promote Pakistani products in the Italian market.

The ambassador further mentioned that Italy’s investment in Pakistan increased to $56.4 million in FY20, compared to $51.9 million in the previous year. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from Italy was primarily aimed at the energy, pharmaceutical, chemical and Information Technology sectors. He further informed that Italy plans to invest in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector.

Jauhar Saleem said that Italy is the largest contributor of home remittances to Pakistan from the EU. Remittances from Italy registered a 29 per cent growth in 2019-20. In total Pakistani workers contributed $142.9 million in home remittances during FY20.

https://profit.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/07/23/italy-to-temporarily-regularise-undocumented-pakistani-workers/

 

Pakistan records trade surplus with Italy

Development comes despite trade disruption due to Covid-19


Our CorrespondentJuly 24, 2020

Description: PHOTO: REUTERS

PHOTO: REUTERS


ISLAMABAD:

Despite the Covid-19-fuelled lockdown and supply chain disruption, Pakistan has fared quite well by registering a visible growth in the Italian market in FY20, said Ambassador of Pakistan to Italy Jauhar Saleem.

Speaking to the Pakistani and Italian media, Saleem said Italy was the eighth largest economy of the world with gross domestic product (GDP) of $2 trillion. It is the third largest economy in the European Union (EU) after Germany and France and the ninth top export destination for Pakistan as it hosts the largest Pakistani diaspora in the EU.

Italy is facing tough times due to the widespread impact of the coronavirus pandemic on its economy and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected a 9-11% contraction in the Italian economy whereas the Italian central bank is anticipating a decline of 9-13% in its GDP this year.

The ambassador pointed out that in FY19 Pakistan had a trade deficit of $164 million with Italy. However, in fiscal year 2019-20, despite the coronavirus outbreak and lockdown in the country, Pakistan managed to record a trade surplus of $210 million.

“So, the balance of trade is in Pakistan’s favour now. In FY20, Pakistan’s exports to Italy were $731 million and imports stood at $521 million.”

Pakistan mainly exported textile, leather, rice and ethanol to Italy. “Pakistan is a market leader in rice and it holds 38% share in the Italian market as the country exports rice worth $62 million,” the envoy added.

Thailand has a share of 12% with $19 million worth of export to the Italian market whereas India ranks at number three with a 10% share and $17 million worth of exports. Saleem also shared the strategy to promote Pakistani goods in the Italian market.

Talking about Italian investment in Pakistan during 2020, the ambassador said it had increased by 45% compared to the previous year. The investment jumped to $56.4 million in FY20.

Foreign direct investment from Italy was mostly concentrated in energy, pharma, chemical and IT sectors. A major investment went to the energy sector.

“Italy has planned to invest in renewable energy in Pakistan. Pakistan’s embassy in Rome is facilitating these new investment projects.”

The ambassador said Italy had become the largest contributor from the EU to home remittances to Pakistan. In FY20, the remittances grew 29%, which was far higher than the growth in overall remittances.

The envoy revealed that the embassy had undertaken a number of initiatives so that Pakistani labour force could stay in Italy even during the lockdown instead of returning back to their home country.

“This strategy has delivered and with the improving market conditions, Pakistanis are back to work and worker remittances have registered 77% growth in June 2020.”

Responding to a question, Saleem said the Italian government had decided to temporarily regularise the migrants working in the agriculture sector and as domestic helpers to fill the gap in key jobs, and allow health coverage to the workers.

Pakistan’s undocumented workers are among the main beneficiaries of this scheme.

The ambassador stressed that Pakistan was enhancing areas of cooperation with Italy. Currently, Italy is providing technical assistance in textile, leather and marble sectors. Pakistan is working to expand it to dairy and livestock, olives and olive products, plastics, processed food and construction sector.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2256381/pakistan-records-trade-surplus-with-italy

 

 

India Needs To Attract More Investments If Economy Further Needs Sustainable Reforms And Inclusive Growth: IMF

International Monetary Fund has said that though India is improving in business rankings, further economic reforms are necessary to attract investments.

International Monetary Fund

New Delhi: As India gears up to reopen its economy completely, the International Monetary Fund’s Chief Spokesperson Gerry Rice said that India requires further economic reforms for sustainable and inclusive growth. His comments come at a time when companies such as Facebook and Google have pledged USD 20 billion FDI in India.

ALSO READ| Israeli Scientists To Visit India With 4 Potential Covid-19 Findings; Includes 30-Sec Coronavirus Test Kits

“Concerted efforts have been made in recent years, in India, to strengthen the business climate and encourage investment in trade, and these have helped to attract investment and improve the current account financing mix and also help to contain external vulnerabilities,” said Rice in a report by PTI.

According to him reforms such as the National Goods and Services Tax have helped improve India’s ranking for ease of business. But he feels that there are several more areas which require further work to attract investments.

.“Relevant reforms have included the new bankruptcy code, the National Goods and Services Tax. These have helped to gain in India’s doing business ranking, moving up rapidly in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business index, up to 63 in 2020, from 100 in 2018, significant progress there, indeed,” said Rice.

He added, “And, nonetheless, further economic reforms, including labour, product mixed land, and others, and additional infrastructure investment are necessary, in our view, to attract even more investment, and to ensure sustainable and more inclusive growth in India,” he said in response to the question.

ALSO READ| Rajasthan HC To Decide The Future Of Team Pilot At 10:30 AM; CM Gehlot Prepares For Floor Test

The pandemic has severely impacted the global economy. Many countries including India were under months or lockdown which has hampered economic growth. Countries are trying to revive their economy by gradually opening up markets. The IMF had recently projected India’s growth rate at -4 in an update to the World Economic Outlook.

"Our projection for fiscal year ’20-2021 was revised down, as was the case for most countries driven by the impact of the pandemic. Further outbreaks could require additional lockdowns, and concerns about the virus could also dampen consumer confidence and delay the economic recovery. Again, this is the case not just in India, but in many countries," said Rice in the report.

Tags:economyimfIndia Economyinternational monetary fund

https://news.abplive.com/news/india/india-needs-further-economic-reforms-for-more-investments-says-imf-1294274

 

IBB varsity researches into improved rice variety

Description: https://i1.wp.com/www.blueprint.ng/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Obaje.jpg?resize=638%2C381&ssl=1

A research team from Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University,  Lapai (IBBUL), in Niger state, has commenced a study into improved production and processing technologies on profitability and productivity of smallholder paddy farmers and rice processors.

The exercise will be carried out in some selected states in the north-central geo-political zone, as part of efforts to boost food security in the country.

Making a presentation at a one-day workshop organised by the Centre for Applied Sciences and Technology Research (CASTER) of the university, winner of the national research fund grant,  Professor Alimi Foloronso Lawal, disclosed that the research was in line with the federal government’s policy on increased food production to fight hunger and poverty in the country.

Lawal, who is the Principal Investigator on the study, further explained that Nigeria is endowed with rich ecological resources that when fully utilised could make herself sufficient and feed other nations.

According to the don who is also the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, the study was aimed at improving rice value chain in Nigeria, that would in turn increase the income of farmers, ensure food sufficiency and reduce poverty.

The research project leader, further pointed out that the study would cover Niger and Nasarawa states, and would be expected to be completed by the next three months.

Lawal thanked the university management for according the research team unwavering support and cooperation.

In his remarks, the vice chancellor, Adamu, stated that if there is any study worth undergoing at this critical period of ravaging hunger and poverty caused by COVID-19, it should be the one being embarked on by Lawal-led team.

He assured the research team of management’s full support for the success of the project, urging them to work assiduously towards ensuring that results of the study would greatly improve the quality of rice production and processing in Nigeria.

Adamu, expressed delight with the spirit of teamwork demonstrated by the scientists on the study, and charged them to maintain the tempo.

Earlier, Director of CASTER, Professor Nuhu George Obaje, reiterated the determination of the centre to stimulate viable research projects that would be beneficial to the state and the country at large.

He pointed out that concerted efforts were on top gear to facilitate other research initiatives that would make IBBUL rub shoulders with high-ranking universities on the globe.

The director, adjudged the research project on improved rice production and technology process initiated by Lawal as timely.

He equally lauded the determination demonstrated by the members of team on the study.

https://www.blueprint.ng/ibb-varsity-researches-into-improved-rice-variety/

 

 

SCIENTISTS DISCOVER FIRST ACTIVE METHANE LEAK FROM THE SEA BED IN ANTARCTICA

The seepage of the methane was first discovered in 2011 by a team of divers but studies on the site began only in 2016.

·          

FP TRENDINGJUL 24, 2020 13:56:43 IST

The main constituent of natural gas - methane - is one of the most harmful greenhouse gases. By trapping heat, this short-lived pollutant significantly contributes to the global climate crisis. Scientists have discovered the first active seepage of methane into the atmosphere from the ocean floor and it is a matter of grave concern.

The findings were published in a peer-reviewed journal called the 'Proceedings of the Royal Society B' on Wednesday, 22 July 2020.

 

Map of Antarctica that shows the Ross sea. image credit: Wikipedia

Methane can leak into the atmosphere from various natural and man-made sources like fossil fuels, wetlands, gas hydrates under the sea bed and rice paddy fields. A large amount of the gas remains stored under the oceans and Antarctica is estimated to contain nearly a quarter of the total marine methane.

Researchers have found the active methane leak seeping from the floor of Ross Sea in Antarctica. Although there exist certain microbes which can consume the gas before it reaches the atmosphere, only a small number had arrived at the spot, especially after five years.

The seepage of the methane was first discovered in 2011 by a team of divers but studies on the site began only in 2016. The seepage of the methane, as well as the cause of it, is a mystery

Dr Andrew Thurber, an oceanographer at Oregon State University, US, led the study and spoke to The Guardian on the discovery. He said “It is not good news. It took more than five years for the microbes to begin to show up and even then there was still methane rapidly escaping from the seafloor.”

“The methane cycle is absolutely something that we as a society need to be concerned about,” he added. “I find it incredibly concerning.”

The release of methane from frozen underwater pockets can mean that the impact of global heating has become “unstoppable”. There is a chance that the gas had started leaking due to the ocean getting heated. But the mystery lies in the fact that the Ross Sea is yet to “warm significantly”.

https://www.firstpost.com/tech/science/scientists-discover-first-active-methane-leak-from-the-sea-bed-in-antarctica-8632351.html

 

 

Rural Resilience in Times of High Stress   

 

By Lesley Dixon

 

ARLINGTON, VA -- In recent years, the medical and scientific communities have come to recognize that farming is one of the most high-stress vocations in the country, with suicide rates alarmingly higher than most other industries.  A new online course called "Rural Resilience: Farm Stress Training" is combating this serious problem in the agriculture community by teaching participants stress management, suicide awareness, and how to communicate with farmers suffering from stress.

It is completely free, self-paced, and accessible to anyone with a computer and an internet connection, even on a busy schedule.  

The course is sponsored by Farm Credit, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Farmers Union, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Cooperative Extension System, and features content created by Extension professionals at Michigan State University, the University of Illinois, the University of Wisconsin, Montana State University, and South Dakota State University.
 
"Rural Resilience: Farm Stress Training" teaches participants to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress and suicide as well as ways to support and effectively communicate with farmers and farm workers who may be under stress.  The course also seeks to reduce the stigma related to mental health issues, bringing together the specific needs and concerns of the agriculture world with evidence-based approaches in behavioral health.
Description: C:\Users\abc\Downloads\unnamed.jpg 
The goal of the course is to give farmers, their families, and their communities the mental health tools and resources they need during stressful times.  Affordable and accessible online courses like this are especially important in rural areas, where many residents lack ready access to hospitals, much less mental health services.
 
"The health and well-being of our rice farmers is a top priority of USA Rice, and it's encouraging to see so many new resources becoming available to those who do the hard work of feeding our country and the world every day," said USA Rice President & CEO Betsy Ward.
 
In March of 2019, USA Rice joined a coalition of dozens of agriculture organizations in signing a letter calling for Congress to fully fund the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) included in the 2018 Farm Bill.  At the 2019 USA Rice Outlook Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas, Dr. Shimi Kang, an award-winning Harvard-trained physician, researcher, and author, gave the keynote speech on the public health crisis of stress and stress-related illness.
 
"
Rural Resilience: Farm Stress Training" is available for free through DL2 Open Courses, and takes approximately two hours and 45 minutes to complete.

may less June start It

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Largest Rice-Producing Countries

By Steph Wright on July 23 2020 in World Facts

Farm laborers planting rice in paddies in rural Tamil Nadu. Image credit: CherylRamalho/Shutterstock.com

  • China, India, and Indonesia are the top three rice producing countries in the world.
  • In 2018 and 2019, China produced over 148 million metric tons of milled rice.
  • During the years 2015-2016, the total rice production of India exceeded 104 million tons. West Bengal is the largest rice producing state in India.
  • Rice is grown in all provinces in Thailand. In 2016, the Chaopraya basin produced approximately 3.78 million tonnes of rice.

Rice is the seed of two grass species: Oryza sativa (Asian rice) and Oryza glaberrima (African rice). Although there are two species, there are over 40,000 varieties found across the world. Long grain, Basmati, wild, and jasmine are just some of the popular types of rice. 95% of the world’s rice is eaten by humans and over half of the world’s population is dependent on rice as a staple food. Rice is cooked by boiling and can be eaten on its own, but it is typically eaten alongside main dishes. The countries that consume the most rice are China, India, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. To find out the countries that are the largest producers of rice, read on below:

6. Thailand

Rice is grown in all provinces in Thailand. In 2016, the Chaopraya basin produced approximately 3.78 million tonnes of rice. Thailand is famous for growing jasmine rice, which is popular across the world for its stickiness and its popcorn aroma. The country exports around 100,000 tons of its rice to Japan who use it to make crackers and wine. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, Thailand expects to export between 7-8 million tonnes of rice in 2020. The production of rice contributed to around 15% of Thailand’s agricultural GDP.

5. Vietnam

Green Terraced Rice Field in Sapa, Vietnam. Image credit: Gnomeandi/Shutterstock.com

Vietnam is one of the largest rice producers in the world. The crop is grown in the rich deltas of the Mekong and Red River in the north and south of the country. 80% of the people who live in the provinces around the Mekong Delta are involved in rice cultivation. Around 82% of Vietnam’s arable land is used to cultivate rice, and in 2010, Vietnam produced 38.7 million metric tons of rice and exported 6.6 million metric tons to the Philippines, China and some countries in Africa.

4. Bangladesh 

Bangladesh's milled rice production from 2019 to 2020 was estimated at 35.2 million tonnes. The grain is the staple food for approximately 135 million people across the country and the rice sector contributes to half of the country's agricultural GDP and one-sixth of Bangladesh's national income. Bangladesh exports its rice to countries all around the world; in 2017, Sri Lanka purchased 50,000 tonnes. The regions of Aman, Boro and Aus is where the majority of Bangladesh's rice is grown. 

3. Indonesia

Indonesia is the world’s third-largest producer of rice. The production of the seed mostly takes place on the islands of Java and Sumatra, with nearly 60% of the production coming from Sumatra alone. Rice is grown by approximately 77% of all farmers, who typically use a sickle or knife to harvest the crops. In 2018/19, Indonesia produced 37.1 million metric tons of rice. Rice is produced by smallholder farmers rather than state-owned enterprises - 90% of Indonesia’s rice production comes from smallholder farms.

2. India

Indian paddy farmer cleaning the dry husks from the paddy by the air movement. Image credit: MTD/Shutterstock.com

During the years 2015-2016, the total rice production of India exceeded 104 million tons. West Bengal is the largest rice producing state in India. In 2016, the state produced 15.75 million tons of rice over a cultivable area of 5.46 million hectares. India is the world’s leading exporter of Basmati rice, with 4.4 million tons exported in 2018-19. It is also the second-largest rice consuming country, with an estimated 100 million metric tons of rice consumed each year. Over 65% of the Indian population eat rice and rice production is the main source of income and employment for over 50 million people.

1. China

Worker in a flooded rice field on January 18, 2008 in Hainan. Image credit: TonyV3112/Shutterstock.com

China is the world’s largest producer of rice. It is also the first country in the world to successfully produce hybrid rice, bred from two different types of plants. In 2018 and 2019, China produced over 148 million metric tons of milled rice. The crop primarily grows in provinces such as Jiangsu, Anhui, Hubei, and Sichuan by the Yangtze River, where almost 95% of China’s rice is grown using traditional methods.  Due to a number of factors such as climate change, scarcity of labor, and the overuse of chemicals and fertilizers, the Chinese government and officials will need to establish more sustainable and productive methods for rice farming. Approximately 65% of China’s population consumes rice as a staple food.

https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/largest-rice-producing-countries.html

 

 

Weedy Rice Survey 2020 Underway

 JULY 24, 2020 INDUSTRY RADIO REPORTS

Description: https://i0.wp.com/agnetwest.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/RICE-FIELDS-IN-CALIFORNIA.shutterstock_670833.jpg?resize=266%2C178

The University of California Cooperative Extension Rice Team is out in the fields surveying for weedy rice. The team will be using the opportunity to collect samples and provide an update on the extent of infestation. The California Rice Commission has played a significant part in making the survey possible. Rice Farm Advisor for Sutter, Yuba, Placer and Sacramento Counties Whitney Brim-Deforest explained that they are taking a different approach to this year’s weedy rice survey.

Listen to the radio report below.

http://agnetwest.com/weedy-rice-survey-2020-underway/

 

 

 

friday-fakeaway-hot-and-tasty-lamb-madras

For hot curry lovers, the lamb or chicken madras is an all-time favourite. Why not make your own with this amazing Friday Fakeaway that can be cooked or your hob, oven or in your slow cooker?

Just hot enough so you can enjoy the flavours of the spices used to create it, but still with that pleasant heat that hot curry lovers want, there is no denying the madras is a classic.

If I want something hot and only a curry will do it is what I turn to – and it is really easy to make it home.

Unlike some of our other fakeaways which can be cooked in a flash, this one will take you slightly longer as the flavours need time to combine to create that authentic taste.

But I promise you, it won’t be a disappointment.

The madras is believed to have originated in the south of India, being named after the city Madras (now Chennai), but bizarrely it is not a curry name used or eaten in India itself.

Although the spices and flavours definitely hail from what is used in the Indian sub-continent, the name is more than likely to have been invented in a British restaurant before coming into common usage.

Description: https://wpcluster.dctdigital.com/thecourier/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2020/07/shutterstock_111589325-848x564.jpg

Remember you can use less spice for a milder dish.

This is also a great way of introducing your children to curry and lamb. I cooked this for my 14-year-old by reducing the amount of chilli and it made a delicious aromatic curry which she loved. It was the first time she had tried lamb and really enjoyed it.

Top tip: When buying fresh ginger you always tend to have too much. Remove the skin with a teaspoon and place what you don’t need in a small bag or cling film in the freezer and use as you require in the future.


Lamb Madras

This is my interpretation and how I like to make it, whether it is authentic enough is for you to decide. Adapt as you see fit. Dry spices can be substituted for the fresh ones, but it simply will not taste the same.

(Serves 2)

Ingredients

·         1 tbsp oil

·         300g lamb, cubed

·         2 onions, sliced

·         2 cloves of garlic

·         1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger

·         2 chillies

·         1 tsp of cumin seeds

·         1 tsp coriander seeds

·         1 tsp turmeric

·         3 cloves

·         3 cardamom pods

·         1 tsp sugar

·         1 tsp garam masala

·         100ml water

·         1 x 400g tin of chopped tomatoes

·         Salt and pepper to taste

Description: https://wpcluster.dctdigital.com/thecourier/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2020/07/shutterstock_125753909-848x564.jpg

Try this with chicken too.

Method

1.      Using a pestle and mortar, spice grinder or grater, mash your ginger, garlic, chillies, cumin seeds and coriander seeds with some salt until they form a rough paste.

2.      Heat the oil in a frying pan and fry off your cubes of lamb until nicely browned on all sides and remove with a slotted spoon.

3.      Add the onions to the pan (if there isn’t enough oil after cooking the lamb add a little more) and cook on a medium heat until they begin to brown and caramelise (around eight minutes).

4.      Add your garlic, ginger and chilli mix and cook for around two to three minutes. Then add your dry spices and cook for another minute.

5.      Add your water to the pan and deglaze it getting all the amazing flavours off the bottom.

6.      Either transfer to slow cooker or casserole dish if you are cooking in the oven. Add the lamb, the chopped tomatoes, salt and pepper and sugar, mix together and pop on the lid.

7.      Set your slow cooker to the low setting and cook for a minimum of eight hours (I did mine overnight for 12). If in oven set the temperature for about 160-170c and cook for three to four hours. What you want to achieve is the tomatoes and spices having developed from a red colour into a darkish brown sauce that will taste amazing.

8.      Serve with boiled or basmati rice and a basic fresh salad of tomato and cucumber as a refresher.

If you want chicken madras simply substitute the lamb for chicken and reduce the cooking time by an hour if cooking in oven (for slow cooker gauge by how your own appliance works, mine would be about six hours). If you like it hotter, add some dry chilli powder when you are frying off the dry spices.

Rain surplus at 6% as monsoon enters last week of July

Vinson Kurian  Thiruvananthapuram | Updated on July 24, 2020  Published on July 24, 2020

Description: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/pjrfe0/article32132041.ece/alternates/WIDE_615/chennai-sunday-lockdownjpg

Many parts of Chennai received heavy rains during the total lockdown on Sunday, July 19, 2020.   -  Bijoy Ghosh

East and North-East parts of India to see heavy rainfall

Satellite pictures this (Friday) noon showed a huge bank of clouds over Maldives and adjoining Lakshadweep along with a band of strong south-westerly winds and looking to hit the Kerala and Karnataka coasts.

An advance streak of the clouds had reached the Kerala coast between Kannur and Kozhikode and extended into Mysuru, Bengaluru and adjoining Rayalaseema/Telangana.

To the South, small parcels of clouds hung over the stretch between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, with intermittent showers being reported at many places. The build-up is being attributed to the presence of a helpful cyclonic circulation persisting over Lakshadweep and the adjoining South-East Arabian Sea off Kerala, with clouds massing up first over the Maldives to the South-West.

Rains for East, North-East

Alongside, a cyclonic circulation has sustained over Bangladesh and adjoining plains of Bengal in India, which is capable of whipping in moist southerly to south-westerly winds from the Bay of Bengal. This would trigger fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy falls over East and North-East India during the next five days, an India Meteorological Department (IMD) update said.

Listen to the weather forecast

Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy falls is also forecast over Odisha, West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura until tomorrow (Saturday) and over Konkan, Goa and Madhya Pradesh during the next 4-5 days. Light to moderate isolated/scattered rainfall over North-West India is set to increase from Saturday.

Early advantage lost

As July, considered the rainiest of the four monsoon months enters its final week, the monsoon has been able to sustain a surplus of six per cent (see data visualisation). Its best phase till date has been in June when the surplus was at a peak around 30 per cent thanks to rainfall conjured up by Cyclone Nisarga that chose to careen along the West Coast rather than spin away to the outer seas.

As per IMD data available for rain till date (June 1-July 23), 27 States have received normal to excess rainfall while only 10 nurse varying deficits. In the South, Kerala is the lone State with a deficit (-26 per cent) while in Central India, the Union Territories of Dada & Nagar Haveli (-40 per cent) and Daman & Diu (-25 per cent) join the list. North-West India too shows some deficit, especially in the hilly areas.

Deficit persists in N-W India

So we have the States of Jammu & Kashmir (-55 per cent), Himachal Pradesh (-34 per cent) and the Union Territory of Ladakh (-53 per cent) in the deficit category while the desert Rajasthan (-24 per cent) is the latest to join the list. In the North-East, Nagaland (-20 per cent), Manipur (-45 per cent) and Mizoram (-33 per cent) have been in deficit right from the word go, like the States in the North-West.

Extended range outlook by the IMD for the rest of July said that the South-East Peninsula (States of Tamil Nadu, most parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh) may receive above normal rainfall while it would be below normal over the West Coast (Kerala, Coastal Karnataka and West Maharashtra) and East-Central India (Odisha, Chhattisgarh and most of Madhya Pradesh).

However, North-East India, East India and adjoining eastern parts of North-West India (the North-Eastern States, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and East Rajasthan) could witness above normal rainfall during this phase and normal for West Rajasthan while the below normal rainfall could continue to hold over the hilly regions across Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Published on July 24, 2020

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/rain-surplus-at-6-as-monsoon-enters-last-week-of-july/article32181013.ece

 

OECD Warns that Cartelized Rice Pricing Affects the Poorest Households in Costa Rica

BY

 TCRN STAFF

 -

Description: OECD Warns that Cartelized Rice Pricing Affects the Poorest Households in Costa Rica

The most recent analysis by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) on Costa Rica insists that exemptions to free competition rules, such as those granted to the rice sector, are regressive and inefficient for the country’s economy.

The organization’s economist, Alberto González, assured that the improvement in competition in this sector would have a negative impact not only on productivity, but also on the social outcome.

“If you stick to competition and move to international prices, particularly lower-income households would be the most benefited,” he said. “Some estimates suggest that current regulations in the rice market imply a transfer from consumers to producers, which represents 8% of their income for the poorest households,” the study adds.

Likewise, the analysis discussed by members of the OECD and the Executive Branch establishes that, on average, Costa Rica’s tariffs are 4% higher than in other OECD countries.

Precisely, part of the higher tariffs apply to some agricultural products such as rice, meat and dairy products.

The Planning Minister, Pilar Garrido, assured that the Economic Council is taking up the issue of distortions to specific markets, with the help of reports made by the Commission to Promote Competition (Coprocom). “It is working hand in hand with the Ministry of Economy and with the authority that was created for these purposes,” said Garrido.

https://thecostaricanews.com/oecd-warns-that-cartelized-rice-pricing-affects-the-poorest-households-in-costa-rica/

 

Excessive' summer monsoon rains in Asia displace millions, cause at least 500 deaths

Description: Travis FedschunChina, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have all recorded devastating flooding in recent weeks

 

By Travis Fedschun | Fox News

Fox News senior meteorologist Janice Dean has your FoxCast.

Weeks of heavy rainfall that's spawned devastating flooding across parts of South Asia can be seen in new imagery from NASA after millions were displaced.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, or IFRC, said Wednesday that more than 9.6 million people have been impacted by the flooding, with about 500 dying so far in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

“People in Bangladesh, India and Nepal are sandwiched in a triple disaster of flooding, the coronavirus and an associated socioeconomic crisis of loss of livelihoods and jobs," said Jagan Chapagain, secretary-general of the IFRC. "Flooding of farmlands and destruction of crops can push millions of people, already badly impacted by COVID-19, further into poverty.

Chapagain warned that South Asia could face a humanitarian crisis in the weeks ahead.

In a map released by NASA on Thursday, "excessive" rainfall totals by satellite estimates emerge over the region using data from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission.

Description: Estimated rainfall amounts since early June can be seen across South Asia.

Estimated rainfall amounts since early June can be seen across South Asia. (NASA)

"The darkest reds indicate places where GPM detected rainfall totals exceeding 100 centimeters (40 inches) during this period," NASA notes. "Due to averaging of the satellite data, local rainfall amounts may be significantly higher when measured from the ground."

Particularly high rainfall totals have been observed over northeastern India, where the state of Asam has seen 35 inches of rain between June 1 and July 22, about 20 percent more than normal.

Description: The floods in northeast India have inundated most of Kaziranga National Park, home to an estimated 2,500 rare one-horned rhinos.

The floods in northeast India have inundated most of Kaziranga National Park, home to an estimated 2,500 rare one-horned rhinos. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

Some 2.5 million people were affected by floods in Assam and at least 113 have died, authorities said.

Description: A flood affected family takes shelter on the roof of their submerged house along river Brahmaputra in Morigaon district, Assam, India, Thursday, July 16, 2020.

A flood affected family takes shelter on the roof of their submerged house along river Brahmaputra in Morigaon district, Assam, India, Thursday, July 16, 2020. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

More than 100 animals, including rare rhinos, have died in floods that have submerged Kaziranga National Park. More rain is expected in the next few days.

Heavy rain since early June has also led to devastating flooding across south-central and eastern China, where record flooding and landslides have taken place.

Description: In this photo released by China's Xinhua News Agency, water flows out from sluiceways at the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River near Yichang in central China's Hubei Province, Friday, July 17, 2020.

In this photo released by China's Xinhua News Agency, water flows out from sluiceways at the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River near Yichang in central China's Hubei Province, Friday, July 17, 2020. (Wang Gang/Xinhua via AP)

 

In Bangladesh, experts say this year’s monsoon is going to last longer than usual because more waters are expected to rush in from upstream India.

Description: More than 9.6 million people across South Asia have been affected by severe floods, with hundreds of thousands struggling to get food and medicine, officials and aid organizations said Wednesday.

More than 9.6 million people across South Asia have been affected by severe floods, with hundreds of thousands struggling to get food and medicine, officials and aid organizations said Wednesday. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

In Kurigram, one of the worst affected districts in northern Bangladesh, thousands of people have taken shelter at higher ground, leaving their flooded homes.

Description: In this photograph provided by International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) shows IFRC volunteers reaching flood affected communities with drinking water and other support in Kurigram, Bangladesh, July 16, 2020.

In this photograph provided by International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) shows IFRC volunteers reaching flood affected communities with drinking water and other support in Kurigram, Bangladesh, July 16, 2020. (IFRC via AP)

“Many people are not having three meals a day," Mizanur Rahman Soikat, a volunteer for the Bidyanondo Foundation, a local charity, told the Associated Press. "The government and volunteer groups are trying to give them food and medicine, but it is getting harder to keep track of the affected people because of rising waters.”

CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP

The monsoon pattern develops annually across the region, but this year the low-pressure systems have been noted to be "especially strong," bringing much more moisture from the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

https://www.foxnews.com/world/summer-monsoon-rain-asia-nasa-satellite-image-rainfall-millions-displaced-severe-weather-floods-disaster

 

Rice sowing up 17% so far this Kharif season

 Description: https://www.outlookindia.com/images/twitter_short.png 

New Delhi, Jul 24 (PTI) Area planted to rice rose 17.33 per cent to 220.24 lakh hectare so far in the kharif season of the 2020-21 crop year (July-June) from 187.70 lakh hectare in the year-ago period, the agriculture ministry said on Friday.

Rice is the main kharif (summer) crop. Sowing of kharif crops begins with the onset of southwest monsoon from June, while harvesting starts from October onwards.

"Government of India is taking several measures to facilitate the farmers and farming activities at field level during COVID-19 pandemic. There has been satisfactory progress of sowing area coverage under kharif crops," the ministry said in a statement.

Of the total rice area covered so far, higher planting area was reported from Uttar Pradesh where farmers have sown rice in 6.50 lakh hectare, followed by Jharkhand (6.10 lakh hectare), Madhya Pradesh (5.98 lakh hectare), Bihar (5.66 lakh hectare), Chhattisgarh (3.57 lakh hectare), West Bengal (2.80 lakh hectare) and Telangana (2.50 lakh hectare).

Besides rice, pulses planting has gone up significantly. Total area covered under various kharif pulses increased 25.74 per cent to 99.71 lakh hectare area so far this kharif season as against 79.30 lakh hectare in the year-ago period.

Similarly, area sown to coarse cereals has increased by 14 per cent to 137.13 lakh hectare area so far in this kharif season compared to 120.30 lakh hectare a year ago.

Oilseeds coverage has increased by 24.56 per cent to 166.36 lakh hectare from 133.56 lakh hectare in the said period.

Among cash crops, area sown to sugarcane increased to 51.54 lakh hectare so far this kharif season as compared to 51.02 lakh hectare during the corresponding period of last year.

Cotton planting increased by 22.50 per cent to 118.03 lakh hectare area so far this season as compared to 96.35 lakh hectare during the corresponding period of last year.

Area sown to jute and mesta increased marginally to 6.94 lakh hectare area from compared to 6.84 lakh hectare in the said period.

Total area coverage under all kharif crops increased 18.50 per cent to 799.95 lakh hectare so far this kharif season from 675.07 lakh hectare in the year-ago period.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) has reported that the live water storage in 123 reservoirs in different parts of the country was 155 per cent of the corresponding period of the last year, the ministry added. PTI LUX MKJ

https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/rice-sowing-up-17-so-far-this-kharif-season/1902055

 

Rice Prices

as on : 24-07-2020 04:09:34 PM

Arrivals in tonnes;prices in Rs/quintal in domestic market.

Arrivals

Price

Current

%
change

Season
cumulative

Modal

Prev.
Modal

Prev.Yr
%change

Rice

Manjeri(Ker)

290.00

NC

11020.00

3500

3500

NC

Mandya(Kar)

252.00

-65.15

5110.00

2450

2300

-

Sultanpur(UP)

200.00

NC

7307.00

2375

2350

-13.64

Dadri(UP)

110.00

15.79

1650.00

5950

5950

-

Gondal(UP)

104.00

-7.56

7809.50

2420

2420

-1.22

Bindki(UP)

100.00

NC

5760.00

2540

2540

12.39

Lohardaga(Jha)

90.00

-17.43

1354.00

2550

2550

-

Kasimbazar(WB)

65.00

-1.52

1462.00

2680

2675

1.13

Ghaziabad(UP)

60.00

20

2565.00

2840

2830

-2.91

Barhaj(UP)

60.00

-33.33

10066.00

2570

2570

7.53

Allahabad(UP)

55.00

22.22

2532.50

2450

2500

NC

Birbhum(WB)

55.00

-5.17

371.00

2540

2530

5.83

Aligarh(UP)

50.00

25

4242.00

2540

2550

NC

Azamgarh(UP)

50.00

66.67

5321.70

2575

2585

5.10

Kopaganj(UP)

49.00

22.5

1682.00

2580

2590

5.52

Choubepur(UP)

45.00

-10

2226.35

2580

2600

-3.55

Kandi(WB)

45.00

-30.77

1555.50

2660

2650

4.31

Saharanpur(UP)

39.00

14.71

2555.50

2730

2730

-6.19

Mainpuri(UP)

36.00

-10

3934.50

2580

2570

-1.90

Teliamura(Tri)

35.00

-22.22

489.00

2900

2800

NC

Meerut(UP)

33.00

-5.71

820.50

2800

2800

-5.72

Lakhimpur(UP)

33.00

10

2744.00

2450

2460

5.15

Faizabad(UP)

32.00

-13.51

1505.00

2450

2450

3.16

Guskara(Burdwan)(WB)

31.00

-3.12

404.00

2550

2500

-

Muradabad(UP)

30.00

-14.29

1552.00

2620

2600

0.77

Hardoi(UP)

30.00

-33.33

8432.80

2460

1845

-3.91

Beldanga(WB)

30.00

NC

1450.00

2700

2700

5.88

Mathura(UP)

28.00

-6.67

2981.50

2560

2550

-0.39

Bankura Sadar(WB)

28.00

-20

2229.00

2600

2600

8.33

Firozabad(UP)

27.50

-14.06

1618.10

2580

2575

-

Muzzafarnagar(UP)

26.00

18.18

4456.00

2780

2775

-5.76

Katwa(WB)

25.80

0.78

295.90

2550

2500

-

Naugarh(UP)

25.00

150

3741.00

2570

2580

5.98

Tamkuhi Road(UP)

25.00

495.24

360.00

2500

2150

11.11

Shamli(UP)

25.00

19.05

1167.40

2780

2780

0.72

Sehjanwa(UP)

25.00

-28.57

2468.50

2575

2570

19.21

Jhijhank(UP)

25.00

66.67

386.50

2530

2540

-

Agra(UP)

21.00

5

3433.50

2630

2600

2.73

Bharthna(UP)

20.00

17.65

2309.00

2550

2550

-3.04

Balrampur(UP)

19.00

18.75

1094.00

2430

2425

5.65

Utraula(UP)

19.00

-5

483.70

2420

2420

-

Jasra(UP)

18.00

28.57

48.00

2530

2515

1.20

Nawabganj(UP)

18.00

-5.26

754.00

2420

2420

51.25

Paliakala(UP)

17.50

-12.5

630.00

2425

2440

4.98

Gazipur(UP)

17.00

6.25

2137.50

3240

3240

0.93

Farukhabad(UP)

15.00

7.14

1129.00

2520

2500

-6.67

Unnao(UP)

15.00

-

15.00

6650

-

95.59

Etawah(UP)

14.00

7.69

2570.50

2535

2535

-4.34

Sahiyapur(UP)

14.00

-30

2502.00

2560

2560

6.67

Jangipura(UP)

13.00

8.33

644.00

2580

2600

10.26

Devariya(UP)

12.50

13.64

1048.50

2570

2570

8.21

Bahraich(UP)

12.20

52.5

1108.00

2440

2440

0.62

Rampur(UP)

12.00

-14.29

639.50

2630

2630

3.14

Rasda(UP)

12.00

20

506.00

2575

2540

1070.45

Badayoun(UP)

11.00

83.33

1087.50

2600

2625

4.00

Mawana(UP)

10.00

-16.67

250.20

2775

2770

-

Kayamganj(UP)

10.00

-9.09

1952.00

2510

2490

-4.92

Karvi(UP)

9.50

46.15

610.50

2415

2445

1.68

Soharatgarh(UP)

8.50

-5.56

1531.20

2575

2565

6.85

Mohamadabad(UP)

8.50

-22.73

839.30

2500

2510

-

Ajuha(UP)

8.00

-11.11

378.00

2480

2480

3.33

Bijnaur(UP)

7.50

25

275.00

2600

2600

9.70

Etah(UP)

7.00

-17.65

422.50

2570

2560

0.39

Raibareilly(UP)

7.00

-12.5

1575.50

2460

2465

12.33

Holenarsipura(Kar)

6.00

-25

121.00

2100

2100

-

Tundla(UP)

6.00

50

270.00

2580

2550

NC

Atarra(UP)

5.00

-28.57

837.50

2420

2400

2.98

Kasganj(UP)

5.00

-16.67

478.50

2580

2570

1.18

Indus(Bankura Sadar)(WB)

5.00

-50

1171.00

2800

2800

1.82

Jayas(UP)

4.70

23.68

720.80

2300

2300

13.86

Mahoba(UP)

4.70

11.9

455.10

2470

2460

9.05

Chandoli(UP)

4.50

-10

82.70

2585

2575

10.94

Dahod(Guj)

4.00

-84.85

979.60

4200

4200

-2.33

Jahangirabad(UP)

4.00

NC

240.50

2640

2640

-1.31

Mirzapur(UP)

4.00

-20

294.00

2675

2650

10.77

Fatehpur(UP)

3.80

-15.56

2275.20

2515

2510

7.48

Fatehpur Sikri(UP)

3.60

20

139.50

2550

2580

-0.78

Bareilly(UP)

3.50

-30

1985.50

2590

2575

4.65

Tulsipur(UP)

3.50

16.67

90.10

2400

2420

-

Akbarpur(UP)

3.40

-2.86

395.10

2450

2450

3.81

Chhibramau(Kannuj)(UP)

3.40

3.03

600.50

2500

2500

NC

Naanpara(UP)

3.20

-28.89

659.60

2460

2450

10.81

Nanjangud(Kar)

3.00

NC

11.00

1700

1700

-

Achalda(UP)

3.00

-25

337.90

2500

2500

13.12

Buland Shahr(UP)

3.00

200

160.90

2685

2655

-0.56

Chitwadagaon(UP)

3.00

-25

471.10

2560

2670

21.90

Mothkur(UP)

2.80

180

14.60

2490

2500

-

Kosikalan(UP)

2.80

7.69

240.40

2550

2550

-0.78

Ramkrishanpur(Howrah)(WB)

2.80

-37.78

128.70

3400

3400

13.33

Auraiya(UP)

2.50

25

250.60

2500

2530

-1.96

Khurja(UP)

2.50

212.5

211.60

2660

2644

-1.85

Baberu(UP)

2.00

33.33

84.40

2420

2420

8.76

Safdarganj(UP)

2.00

NC

84.50

2450

2420

-

Charra(UP)

1.80

-5.26

116.10

2560

2560

1.39

Panichowki(Kumarghat)(Tri)

1.50

15.38

53.90

2880

2950

-

Wazirganj(UP)

1.50

150

51.00

2580

2600

-

Muskara(UP)

1.30

8.33

76.10

2350

2400

1.08

Alibagh(Mah)

1.00

NC

90.00

4200

4200

90.91

Murud(Mah)

1.00

NC

89.00

4200

4200

90.91

Champaknagar(Tri)

1.00

25

1.80

3100

3100

-

Lalganj(UP)

1.00

25

271.80

2350

2350

-

Gurusarai(UP)

0.90

28.57

22.60

2485

2485

7.58

Bharuasumerpur(UP)

0.80

-33.33

26.10

2500

2500

28.21

Khair(UP)

0.80

-20

75.30

2590

2580

-0.38

Maudaha(UP)

0.80

-20

33.20

2365

2350

NC

Gandacharra(Tri)

0.70

-56.25

7.90

2800

2760

-

Achnera(UP)

0.70

NC

41.00

2580

2570

-1.15

Atrauli(UP)

0.70

-12.5

6.70

2550

2550

-

Published on July 24, 2020

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/rice-prices/article32182823.ece

 

A critical situation': Bangladesh in crisis as monsoon floods follow super-cyclone

Despite flood planning efforts hundreds have been killed and millions hit as third of land is submerged by non-stop rain

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Description: https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/5ee29a81892c931f73d30f6309d8bbb79bec3acb/0_0_3500_2333/master/3500.jpg?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=2cef6564b64f2a707ba3e5a439f5e7a5

 Flood-affected people get on a boat to cross a stream in Jamalpur, Bangladesh, July 18, 2020. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

Bangladesh could be plunged into a humanitarian crisis as it undergoes the most prolonged monsoon flooding in decades while it is still recovering from the effects of super-cyclone Amphan.

Despite the UN has lauding its new initiatives for early intervention aimed at preparing communities for crisis, 550 people have been killed and 9.6 million affected by the disaster in Bangladesh, Nepal and north-eastern India, according to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

Bangladesh’s ministry for natural disasters has estimated that a third of the country is already underwater, with heavy rains set to continue until the end of July. The UN has estimated that this flooding could be the most protracted since 1988.

Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, executive director of the Bangladeshi NGO Coast, said the country was far more prepared for flooding than in the past, but that populations in flooded areas might end up in dire need because of a combination of existing localised and national crises.

 Fighting cyclones and coronavirus: how we evacuated millions during a pandemic

Sheikh Hasina and Patrick Verkooijen

 

Description: A woman and a young girl sit in their flooded house in Sunamganj, north-eastern Bangladesh, on 16 July.He said incomes had already been hit by the government’s closure of 25 state-owned jute mills, mostly in northern areas that have been flooded, and by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The country has been locked down for four months and that has had a serious impact. Forty per cent of rural income was coming from urban areas and then suddenly labourers and rickshaw pullers weren’t sending money home,” said Chowdhury.

“Almost a third of the population has dropped under the poverty line. This will have an impact on food security and purchasing power, this is a critical situation we have to overcome.”

He said local organisations had exhausted funds responding to the pandemic so the UN and international organisations would need to step in, especially to support farmers whose crops may be damaged before the August rice harvest.

 

 

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 A woman and a young girl sit in their flooded house in Sunamganj, north-eastern Bangladesh, earlier this month. Photograph: Munir Uz Zaman/AFP/Getty Images

The UN said it had been trying to pre-empt damage to livelihoods by predicting where support needed to be sent ahead of time, using advances in data and forecasting analytics.

That had allowed the release of relief worth $5.2m (£4m) from its reserve fund for humanitarian emergencies to counter severe flooding over the past week in the form of cash, hygiene and health kits, and equipment to protect farmers’ materials from water damage.

The UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, Mark Lowcock, said the organisation should no longer be taken by surprise when disasters hit.

“Doing something before crises hit can save more lives and costs less money. Plus it’s far more dignified for the people we’re helping,” he said.

“If we know a flood is about to hit, why wouldn’t we give river communities the means to get themselves, their livestock and their tools out of harm’s way before the deluge comes, instead of waiting until they’ve lost everything, then try and help?”

Description: Flooding from Super-cyclone Amphan in Khulna, Bangladesh, in May this year.Sheikh Rokon, founder of the campaign group Riverine People, said the monsoon was essential to life in Bangladesh, recharging water levels and giving life to seasonal wetlands, but that environmental changes were making life harder for communities.

“River erosion makes the situation worse. They lose everything but hope and have to struggle for days. This year, riverine communities across the Brahmaputra and Teesta river basins are facing severe erosion,” he said. “A very small riverine community, the water Gypsy, live in the rivers, on boats. Floods makes their life and livelihoods harder.”

 

 

 Swept away ... flooding from Super-cyclone Amphan in Khulna, Bangladesh, in May this year. Photograph: Habib/Zeppelin/Sipa/Rex/Shutterstock

Rokon said communities usually had little time to prepare, which usually involves moving their belongings to areas protected by embankments.

The World Food Programme’s executive director, David Beasley, said improving planning to act on forecasts would help families in the long run.

“Year after year, floods devastate Bangladesh. The waters not only swallow up homes and lives but with them progress and hope for the Bangladeshi people,” said Beasley. “I cannot stress enough how important it is to equip communities to prepare and protect themselves against such disasters.”

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https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2020/jul/24/a-critical-situation-bangladesh-in-crisis-as-monsoon-floods-follow-super-cyclone

Sri Lanka rough rice forecast for 2020 minor season up 11-pct

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s paddy (rough rice) harvest for the 2020 Yala minor cultivation season is expected to rise 11 percent to 1.721 million metric tonnes, the state agricultural office said, while the annual forecast is 4.772 million metric tonnes, up 3.3 percent.

The final output for the Maha cultivation season for 2020 was estimated at 3,051 million metric tonnes, around the same level as last year’s 3.073 million tonnes.

The Department of Agriculture said, 430,000 hectares out of a target of 475,000 hectares or 90 percent, had been sown by May.

The reported extent is 29 percent higher than the average sown extent for the past three years at the same time.

The final estimate for the 2020 Yala season may be revised on the crop losses and cultivated area. By June 488 hectares had been damaged by floods.

The Yala harvest is expected to begin from the end of July from Batticaloa and Kurunegala districts. (Colombo/July24/202)

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https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rough-rice-forecast-for-2020-minor-season-up-11-pct-72316/

 

Price Floor for 100 Tins of Rice Set at K520,000

ByMyanmar Business Today

July 24, 2020

 

Description: Rice paddy farmer field Myanmar

Leading Committee for Farmers’ Rights Protection and Promotion on July 23 has set a price floor for 100 tins (1tin = 46 lbs.) of unhusked rice at K520,000. The rice must be free from dust, sand, and small stones and moisture content must not be over 14 percent.

The renewed price floor is for 2020 rainy season grown rice and 2021 summer grown rice.

Rice traders must buy the rice at the price floor rate when the market price is lower than the price floor or buy at the market price when rice price is lower than the price floor.

The price floor for unhusked rice in 2019 was set at K500,000. The country started imposing a price floor in 2018.

Myanmar, whose staple food is rice, has over 17 million acres of rice fields.

Written by Tayzar Bhone Myint/ Translated into English by Min Thu Aung

https://mmbiztoday.com/price-floor-for-100-tins-of-rice-set-at-k520000/

 

RPT-Asia Rice-Thai rates rise; virus outbreak raises concerns for Indian exporters

Shreyansi Singh

JULY 24, 2020 / 3:52 PM

(Repeats story published on July 23 with no changes to text)

 

* Thai rice exporters cut 2020 forecast to lowest in 20 years

 

* Demand from China expected to rise - Vietnamese trader

 

* Floods submerge farm land in Bangladesh

 

By Shreyansi Singh

 

BENGALURU, July 23 (Reuters) - Thai rice export prices gained this week as inconsistent rainfall stoked supply concerns, while the worsening coronavirus pandemic posed logistical problems for exporters in India.

 

Thailand’s benchmark 5-percent broken rice RI-THBKN5-P1 prices widened to $450–$482 a tonne, from $440–$455 last week.

 

“We expect lower supply this year,” said a Bangkok-based trader, adding that rice millers are holding on to stocks and hiking prices.

 

Thailand’s rice exporters association on Wednesday slashed its forecast for 2020 exports to 6.5 million tonnes, the lowest in two decades, citing drought and uncompetitive prices.

 

“But prices might come down if it rains a lot,” another trader said.

 

Top exporter India’s 5-percent broken parboiled variety RI-INBKN5-P1 was unchanged at $377-$382 per tonne, while farmers expanded cultivation area under the summer-sown paddy crop.

 

Rising cases of coronavirus in and around Kakinada port in southern state of Andhra Pradesh, which handles a majority of rice shipments from India, could create logistical problems for exporters, said B.V. Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association.

 

“Demand is more or less stable from African and Asian buyers.”

 

In Vietnam, rates for 5-percent broken rice RI-VNBKN5-P1 narrowed to $440-$450 from $435-$457 per tonne last week.

 

“Trading activity has been slow as demand from traditional buyers remain weak,” a Ho Chi Minh City-based said.

 

Preliminary shipping data showed 169,100 tonnes of rice will be loaded at the Ho Chi Minh City port between July 1 and July 31, with most of it heading to Africa, Cuba, Timor-Leste and Malaysia.Another trader in Ho Chi Minh said demand from China could increase due to the flooding there.

Bangladesh is grappling with a double whammy of the pandemic and the worst floods in recent years.

The country could be faced with a huge loss of paddy as vast swathes of land have been submerged, agriculture ministry officials said. (Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav in Mumbai, Ruma Paul in Dhaka, Khanh Vu in Hanoi and Patpicha Tanakasempipat in Bangkok; editing by Arpan Varghese and Amy Caren Daniel)

https://www.reuters.com/article/asia-rice/rpt-asia-rice-thai-rates-rise-virus-outbreak-raises-concerns-for-indian-exporters-idUSL3N2EU30R

 

 

 

Customs exceeds P10B target in rice tariff collection for 2020

Description: William B. Depasupil

ByWilliam B. Depasupil

July 24, 2020

 

 

THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) has exceeded  its P10 billion target in rice tariff collection for the year as set under Republic Act (RA) 11203 or the Rice Import Tarification Law.

Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said on Friday that the bureau was able to collect a total of P10.728 billion in revenues from January to July 17, 2020 despite lower volume of rice importation compared to the same period last year.

BoC records showed that to date, only  1,651.267 metric tons of rice were imported, which is 24.6 percent lower in volume covering the same period last year.

But Guerrero pointed out though that despite the low volume of  imported rice, the bureau still managed to gain a significant increase of 8 percent in rice tariff collection as compared to P9.936 billion for the same period in 2019.

Guerrero attributed the  increase in rice tariff collection to the BoC’s continuous effort to protect government revenue and ensure correct valuation of goods.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2020/07/24/news/latest-stories/customs-exceeds-p10b-target-in-rice-tariff-collection-for-2020/745330/

 

Despite lower imports, rice tariffs up to P10.7B as of mid-July

By: Ben O. de Vera - Reporter / @bendeveraINQ

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 03:29 PM July 24, 2020

MANILA, Philippines – The year-to-date tariffs collected from imported rice already breached P10 billion as of mid-July, ensuring next year’s fund for farm modernization being set aside under the Rice Tariffication Law.

In a statement Friday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said collections from the import duties slapped on rice from Jan. 1 to July 17 amounted to P10.7 billion.

The Rice Tariffication Law or Republic Act (RA) No. 11203 mandated earmarking P10 billion yearly for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) aimed at modernizing the rice sector, while excess amounts will be allocated to farmers whose livelihood were badly hit by the import surge due to liberalized trade.

The BOC said year-to-date collection exceeded by 8 percent the P9.9-billion take a year ago even as rice import volume slid 24.6 percent year-on-year to 1.65 million metric tons (MT).

BOC Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip C. Maronilla explained that the lower rice importation to date was on the back of “initial hesitation of some countries that export rice to withhold the volume exported due to possible [supply] effects of COVID-19 in their respective domestic markets.”

Despite smaller import volume, rice tariff collections rose due to “the BOC’s continuous effort to protect government revenue and ensure the correct valuation of goods,” it said.

“The BOC consistently conducts close monitoring of the declared value on rice importations in view of its strict adherence to global published prices for rice, which serves as a guide when the veracity of the declared values is under dispute,” it added.

Since last year, RA 11203 slapped the following levy on imported rice: 35 percent, if from Asean; 40 percent, if within the minimum access volume (MAV) of 350,000 MT and from countries outside Asean; and 180 percent, if above the MAV and coming from a non-Asean country.

In 2019, rice tariffication raised P12.3 billion in additional revenues, as the private sector imported 2.03 million MT of the Filipino staple food.

To date, rice retail prices dropped by about P10 per kilo compared to their peak in 2018, after RA 11203 removed the import quota which had protected the domestic industry while stripping off the state-run National Food Authority (NFA) its importation and regulatory functions.

In June, rice recorded its 14th straight month of deflation or year-on-year drop in prices, although the month’s 1.9 percent was the slowest so far due to base effects from last year’s massive price decline. [ac]



https://business.inquirer.net/303423/despite-lower-imports-rice-tariffs-up-to-p10-7b-as-of-mid-july#ixzz6TCUAwtLg

 

PH rice farmers globally competitive if reduced labor costs, higher yield are attained

Published July 24, 2020, 3:11 PM

by Chito Chavez

The Agriculture Training Institute (ATI) on Friday said that local rice farmers could be globally competitive if labor costs are reduced and production yield increased through modern farming.

Description: https://mb.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/rice.jpg (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)

In a press briefing, ATI Deputy Director Dr. Rosana Mula explained that this could be attained through the planting of quality seeds and proper use of modern machineries.

Explaining further, Mula cited that the drying and milling process, adapting to rice machinery and use of solar irrigation are some of the important factors that will propel the farmers to have increased yields.

Stressing her point, Mula said the rice production cost will plunge if the Philippines can lower its labor cost to P9 compared to Vietnam’s P12.

“At kung ating mapataas ang production o yield from 4 tons to 5-6 tons per hectare yan din po ay magiging competitive ang ating mga farmers (And if we can raise the production yield from four tons to five to six tons per hectare then our local farmers will be competitive),’’ Mula said.

Mula said that adapting to the use of quality seeds and proper use of modern farm machineries can be attained through the rice extension service by the government.

She explained that the rice extension service is one of the four facets of the “rice competitiveness fund (RCEF).

“Ang layunin nitong extension service na ito ay itaas ang antas ng kakayahan at kaalaman ng ating rice farmers (The purpose of this extension service is to upgrade the skill and capability skills of our rice farmers),’’ she added.

Mula said that the program puts prime emphasis to low productivity which is included in the various training sessions.

“Makabagong teknolohiya lalong lalo na sa paggamit ng dekalidad at mataas na klase ng punla o seeds at ang tamang paggamit ng machinery o farming mechanization (Modern technology specifically in the use of quality and top of the line seedlings or seeds and proper use of machinery or farming mechanization),’’ she added. 

Mula said that these are the important factors that make the farmers highly competitive in the world market.

She clarified that RCEF is being implemented by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PHILRICE), Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHILMEC) Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)  “and of course’’ the ATI which leads the extension service. 

Mula said that PHILRICE have specialists who train the trainers while the trainer’s training program is also under the ATI.

https://mb.com.ph/2020/07/24/ph-rice-farmers-globally-competitive-if-reduced-labor-costs-higher-yield-are-attained/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ph-rice-farmers-globally-competitive-if-reduced-labor-costs-higher-yield-are-attained

 

Abia attains self-sufficiency in rice production — FADAMA III coordinator

ON JULY 24, 20203:10 AMIN AGRIC

 Mrs. Ezinne Otuka, the State Programme Coordinator (SPC), Abia State FADAMA III, says the state has attained self-sufficiency in rice production. Otuka who spoke on Thursday in Umuahia, attributed the success story to the agricultural reform programmes of the Abia Government. He said that the programmes encouraged the FADAMA User Groups (FUGs) and others in the state to go into commercial agriculture. READ ALSO: Customs Kwara area command destroys 927 bags of poisonous rice, other items She said that there were over 34 clusters of rice fields across the state, supported by the programme as well as 188 registered FADAMA Community Associations (FCAs). “In Abia, we have 188 FCAs and 2, 084 FUGs trained and fully funded by the programme. The Abia Federated FCAs which cuts across commodity and institutional lines have been duly registered,” she said. She said that the governor recently opened up an additional 103 hectares of rice field to be cultivated in 2020, bringing the total hectares of rice field in the state under FADAMA programme to 1, 360 hectares. Otuka said that the state government recently inaugurated a rice mill to serve as off-taker for rice production in Acha community, Isiukwuato Local Government Area of the state. She said that the rice mill had the capacity to produce 24 tonnes of rice per day, adding that agricultural activities in the state under the programme had been very rewarding. READ ALSO: Customs arrests 41 suspected smugglers with cannabis, rice “Our farmers now produce the rice we use in the state and even sell to neighbouring states,” she said. The SPC said that FADAMA programme had helped to boost food security and sufficiency in the state, adding that the Abia FADAMA Office had received commendations from the national office. “We can conveniently say that Gov. Description: Abia attains self-sufficiency in rice production — FADAMA III coordinatorOkezie Ikpeazu, has shown uncommon passion and zeal to ensure that the state achieves food security,” Otuka said.

: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/07/abia-attains-self-sufficiency-in-rice-production-fadama-iii-coordinator-2/
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/07/abia-attains-self-sufficiency-in-rice-production-fadama-iii-coordinator-2/

 

Signed by President Duterte in February 2019, the Rice Tariffication Law liberalized rice imports while imposing a minimum 35-percent tariff in a bid to bring down the prices of the stable grain in the market, and respond to growing calls from other countries for the Philippines to abandon its protectionist rice policies.

Michael Varcas, file

 

 

Surge in rice prices boosts tariff revenues beyond P10 billion

 

Ian Nicolas Cigaral (Philstar.com) - July 24, 2020 - 4:43pm

MANILA, Philippines — A spike in global rice prices countered a drop in the volume of imported rice, benefiting state coffers with bigger revenues from tariffs on the main staple, the Bureau of Customs reported on Friday.

A total of P10.73 billion was raised from rice tariffs as of July 17, up 7.9% year-on-year from P9.94 billion.

The amount collected already surpassed the P10 billion mandated to be allocated to the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), a pooled funding under Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law earmarked for projects targeted at improving local rice production.

Under the law, the government is allowed to redirect in other farm programs any windfall revenues from rice levies during the first six years of the law enacted last year. On the measure’s first year, part of the P12.3 billion generated under RCEF went to fund cash transfers to poor farmers.

Collections rose despite a 24.6% drop in the volume of imported rice so far this year. Lockdowns from mid-March to June have crippled trade activity and put imports almost to a standstill, but the agency said higher global rice prices worked on its favor.

“The (Customs) consistently conducts close monitoring of the declared value on rice importations in view of its strict adherence to global published prices for rice which serves as a guide when the veracity of the declared values is under dispute,” Customs said.

Indeed, data from Food and Agriculture Organization, a UN agency, showed its global rice price index up 14% year-on-year in June. Broken down, FAO data showed grain prices have surged in Thailand and Vietnam, where the Philippines secures the bulk of its imports, since December last year.

With higher rice prices, the base over which the 35% tariff is collected also increases, pushing up revenues computed from the levies.

“The increase in rice tariff collection can be attributed to the (Customs’) continuous effort to protect government revenue and ensure correct valuation of goods,” the agency said.

Sought for comment, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes said by phone the department would give an update on RCEF was spent so far this year over the weekend. The last update was in February, before the pandemic struck, when the agency said P1.52 billion was already disbursed.

By law, the P10-billion rice fund should be divided to four key farm programs. The bulk of funding worth P5 billion is allocated to farm machinery, while P3 billion is spent to purchase farm seeds. 

The balance of P2 billion is equally shared between bank credit for agriculture lending, and so-called “rice extension service” to farmers.

Rice, Climate Change And A Post-COVID Opportunity For Women In Guyana

According to the agriculture department website, 57 provinces nationwide benefit from RCEF. 

EDITORS' PICK|424 views|Jul 24, 2020,09:37pm EDT

 

Description: Daphne Ewing-Chow

Daphne Ewing-Chow

Rice, the most widely consumed staple in the world, has been one of the central protagonists in the global food crisis caused by COVID-19. Three quarters of global rice exports, that originate in Asian countries such as India and Thailand, have been affected by supply chain disruptions and export reductions due to concerns around domestic food security and climate change-fuelled droughts. The resulting volatility has created market opportunities for smaller producers, such as the South American country of Guyana, to increase production to meet the growing demand.

With the highest rice production per capita in the world (FAOSTAT, 2018), Guyana produces nearly ten times more rice per capita than India. The Food and Agriculture Organisation’s (FAO) 2018 data on more than 120 rice producing countries, places Guyana in 21st place for rice yields (hg/hectare) and number 39 for total production globally, with half of its annual production being exported to more than 30 countries. Despite its relatively small size, Guyana is the 13th largest net exporter of rice in the world. (worldstopexports.com)

Unlike its Asian counterparts, Guyana’s rice trade has not been set back by COVID-19. The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) reported a 13 per cent increase in rice exports between January and May 2020 as compared to the corresponding period in 2019.

But the economic promise of rice to the population of Guyana is neither gender-blind nor environmentally neutral. Guyana’s high vulnerability to climate change, particularly in its coastal areas, coupled with limited opportunities for women in agriculture, create uncertainty, instability and inefficiency in a number of areas. If rectified, these can fuel a more economically and environmentally resilient future for the Guyanese rice industry.

Most Popular In: Food & Drink

Over the years, climate change-driven variations in rainfall and temperature have caused flooding, drought, and an increase in pests, diseases and weeds, all of which have affected output. A 2012 World Bank report listed flooding as the most significant risk to Guyana’s rice sector and drought as number 3. Saltwater intrusion due to rising sea level and stronger storm surges is also a major problem, which lead to a 16 per cent drop in rice production in 2016.

The gendered division of labour in the agricultural sector means that female farmers’ experiences with climate change are drastically different from those of their male counterparts. There are significant differences in the experiences of female vs. male-headed households, females in male-headed households and across single parent households (FAO, 2010).

In 2018, Guyana ranked 123rd out of 189 countries on the Gender Inequality Index, confirming that there is indeed a “gender gap” between men and women. But given that most agricultural data is not disaggregated by gender, there is limited quantitative evidence of how large the discrepancies are in this sector.

The gendered division of labour in the agricultural sector in Guyana means that female farmers’ ... [+]

 NURPHOTO VIA GETTY IMAGES

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) reports that 9 per cent of Guyanese women are employed in agriculture as compared to more than 22 per cent of men (2019). Women who are involved in agriculture often do so as unpaid family workers who are simultaneously involved in taking care of children and housework, thus experiencing greater vulnerability, less access to resources, and lower productivity than their male counterparts.

In the face of climate change, women are disadvantaged by differences in access to information surrounding agricultural best practices and impending inclement weather. This disadvantage relative to men affects female farmers’ decision-making power, making it difficult to navigate the uncertainties posed by unpredictable weather patterns.

Women also have significantly lower levels of land ownership than men. Even among households that are headed by female farmers, women typically have no title to their lands. This results in less access to land-based resources and income, such as water, financing and technology.

Given that rice is a water-intensive crop, requiring 3000-5000 litres of water to produce 1 kg of the staple, the interplay of climate change-driven events such as drought, with women’s unequal access to water resources, compounds production inefficiencies and reinforces gender inequalities.

Providing women with equal access to key assets such as “land, technology, financial services, education and markets” could raise output on women’s farms by 20 to 30 per cent and increase total agricultural production by 2.5 to 4 percent, which would have massive implications for poverty reduction and nutrition. (FAO)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) upholds that “Gender equality at the household and community levels leads to superior agricultural and development outcomes, including increases in farm productivity and improvements in family nutrition.”

The rice sector is of major importance to small farmers, with a large number of producers operating on farms of less than 4.5 hectares, making them particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Most women farmers fall into this group. Technologies to support resilience and climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers would be beneficial in sustainably increasing productivity and empowering women.

Further, “because gender-differentiated vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change are the cumulative result of a complex array of socio-cultural, structural and institutional inequities, climate-smart agriculture and similar efforts should seek to enhance the resource base of women and ensure that women’s contributions to productivity and food security are broadly valued, redressing gendered vulnerabilities and unequal power dynamics in agriculture would help ensure their efficacy and sustainability.” (UNDP, 2016)

Launched in 2019, the Cooperation for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Caribbean Initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada, is working with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations to support CARICOM members via a pre-investment Fund for drafting and negotiating financing for gender sensitive climate change projects, such as the REACT project that, if approved for financing, will directly impact 40,000 small producers in Guyana’s coastal communities by improving their climate resilience. This project is unique in that it addresses climate change adaptation through a gender-sensitive lens.

Staff from the Food and Agriculture Organisation's REACT team, conducting a site visit at a rice ... [+]

 TANJA LIEUW

The need to create a level playing field and make up for gender and climate based inefficiencies is more critical now than ever before. The United Nations World Food Programme has projected that the crisis will almost double the amount of people faced with acute food insecurity by the end of 2020, to an estimated 265 million.

Jean Balié, Research Director of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) believes that within the context of the current global food crisis, rice will play a critical role in the nutrition of as much as 30 per cent of the world’s population. According to the FAO, “if women farmers were given the same access to productive resources as men (e.g., land), the number of malnourished people could be reduced by 12 to 17 percent.” (FAO)

Herein lies an opportunity for Guyana to grow its rice supply— but in order to meet the increasing global demand for rice, it is imperative that climate change vulnerabilities and gender inequalities are simultaneously addressed.

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Description: Daphne Ewing-Chow

Daphne Ewing-Chow

I’m an environmental writer with a focus on food and agriculture, and commute between the Southern Caribbean (Barbados) and the Northern Caribbean (Cayman Islands). I

 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/daphneewingchow/2020/07/24/rice-climate-change-and-a-post-covid-opportunity-for-women-in-guyana/#3248ff244d80

 

Most PH rice farmers want children to work in the city or abroad – study

RAPPLER.COM

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MANILA, PHILIPPINES

'The risk associated with rice farming as a means of livelihood further discourages parent farmers to aspire for their children to be like them,' says Florencia G. Palis of the University of the Philippines Los Baños

Most rice farmers in the country want their children to earn college degrees that will get them jobs in the city or abroad, a study showed.

This is based on the findings of the study,  “Aging Filipino Rice Farmers and Their Aspirations for Their Children,” conducted by Florencia G. Palis of the University of the Philippines Los Baños.

According to the study, around 65% of the farmers want their children to stay away from rice farming, while 35% want their children to engage in the same trade.

The Science and Technology Information Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-STII) said in a press statement that according to Palis, “the risk associated with rice farming as a means of livelihood further discourages parent farmers to aspire for their children to be like them.”

“The uncertainty in yield and income is real to them and they attribute it to unpredictable weather situations, unstable output price and input costs, and natural disasters like heavy rains, floods, and drought, including pest and disease infestations,” Palis added.

Citing the study, DOST-STII said that farmers who want their children to follow in their footsteps “are more likely the older farmers who wanted that someone in the family manage the farm and continue the rice farming tradition.”

Breaking the cycle of poverty

Palis said “there is need to pay attention to rural services for agricultural extension including hassle free and practical mechanisms of providing capital to farmers.” 

Her research showed that Filipino rice farmers get trapped in a cycle of poverty since most do not have enough capital for their trade, and have to seek out informal money lenders who charge high interest rates, or borrow money from rice traders who require them to sell their harvest to them at a low price.

“Agricultural extension should not only focus on dissemination of technological innovations but social innovations as well to achieve impacts in improving the lives of Filipino farming households and farming communities. In this manner, farmers and their children may aspire for farming occupation or business if it has a better pay-off,” DOST-STII said, citing the research findings.

Respondents

The survey was conducted among 923 farmers randomly selected in 3 provinces representing the 3 major island groups: Isabela for Luzon, Iloilo for the Visayas, and Agusan del Norte for Mindanao. 

“The survey was complemented by in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to further understand the lives and situations of Filipino farmers,” DOST-STII said.

A majority of the respondents had elementary education, and on average spent only 8 years in school, or up to 2nd year high school before quitting.

 

https://rappler.com/business/philippine-rice-farmers-survey-do-not-want-children-work-farms

 

Slimy invaders are attacking Louisiana where it hurts

 Updated 12:02 am EDT, Saturday, July 25, 2020

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — First it came for your wetlands. Now it’s coming for your crawfish and your rice.

A foreign snail that appeared in Louisiana just over 10 years ago and quickly infested ponds, bayous and streams in about 30 parishes has recently found its way to the farms that produce two of the state’s favorite foods.

The invasive apple snail has shut down harvest at some crawfish farms in Vermilion, Acadia and Jefferson Davis parishes and has made its first devastating appearance in rice fields. In March, the invasive mollusks wiped out a 50-acre field of rice, marking the first reported case of the snail damaging the crop in Louisiana.

“Where it’s hit ‘em, it’s hit ’em hard,” said David Savoy, a Church Point crawfish farmer and chairman of the Louisiana Crawfish Promotion and Research Board. “In Vermilion, it’s so bad, you pick up a trap and there’s 5 to 10 pounds of them. It’s horrible.”

Attracted by the bait in traps, the snails crowd in, leaving little or no room for crawfish. At some farms, apple snails are being caught in such high numbers — sometimes 12 crates per day — that disposal of the thick-shelled snails is becoming a problem.

Some farmers have had to halt harvests and drain their ponds early, suffering revenue reductions of as much as 50%, said Blake Wilson, an LSU AgCenter researcher.

“The impact on some of those farms, particularly where snail populations have been building for years, has been immense,” he said.

Only about 10 crawfish farms have been affected, but new reports keep coming in.

Louisiana is by far the nation’s biggest crawfish producer. The industry contributes more than $300 million to the state economy each year and employs about 7,000 people, according to the research board.

“If the problem spreads to the whole industry, economic impacts could be tens of millions of dollars annually without effective control tactics,” Wilson said.

Those tactics are currently limited to pesticides. But what kills snails will also likely kill crawfish.

Native to South America, the apple snail’s first appearance in Louisiana was in a Gretna drainage canal in 2006.

They’re popular in the aquarium trade partly because they eat the algae that dirties tanks. But they get quite big — sometimes growing shells 6 inches in diameter — and they often have a strong, swampy odor. Their presence in the wild is likely due to aquarium owners dumping them in ditches and ponds.

The snails stay below the water’s surface and aren’t often seen, but their bubblegum pink eggs are hard to miss. In clusters of 200 to 600, the tiny eggs have become an all-too-common sight on tree trunks and pilings just above the water line. Destroying the eggs is one of the best ways to reduce their numbers.

The state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries recommends people scrape the eggs off with a stick and crush them, or at least knock them into the water. Be careful not to touch them because the eggs contain a neurotoxin that can irritate skin and eyes.

The snails are edible but are known to carry rat lungworm, a parasite that can kill humans and other mammals.

Rapid reproducers and voracious eaters, the snail overpopulates waterways and kills off habitat important to native fish and other wildlife.

The snail’s appearance in crawfish farms comes at a particularly bad time for the industry. Crawfish have been hit with white spot syndrome, a deadly virus that was first discovered in farmed shrimp in Asia in the early 1990s and first appeared in Louisiana 2007.

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll as well. The AgCenter reported that some crawfish producers have been able to sell just 15% of their catch due to pandemic-related restaurant closures and occupancy limits.

Scientists and farmers are perplexed about how the snail arrived in crawfish farms and why certain farms are swarming with them.

“It’s weird,” AgCenter researcher Greg Lutz said. “It pops up in certain regions. You can have a farm with nothing, and three or four miles down the road they’re overrun.”

It could be that the snails benefit from flooding. An Acadia Parish farm started having a snail problem after its fields were flooded from a bayou linked to the Mermentau River, which is loaded with apple snails.

The snail has been identified in just one rice field so far, but the potential for widespread destruction is strong. It’s a major pest for rice growers in Spain, Asia and Central America. In the Philippines, the snail is considered a national menace, infesting about half the nation’s rice fields during the late 1980s.

The snail left almost nothing at the rice field near Rayne. Wilson estimated the field had two snails per square foot.

“There was no trace of rice,” he said. “If you didn’t know better, you’d think it was a snail production farm.”

https://www.fairfieldcitizenonline.com/news/article/Slimy-invaders-are-attacking-Louisiana-where-it-15433358.php

Government concludes processes to purchase livestock and poultry species

Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta

Description: Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta

Government has concluded the procurement processes for the purchase of 531,100 improved breeds of livestock and poultry species including sheep, goats, pigs, cockerels and guinea fowls, and related products.The delivery of the livestock and the related products are expected to be effected before the end of December 2020.Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, Minister of Finance, who announced this at the mid-year budget review in Parliament on Thursday said, a total of 30,000 cockerels were distributed to 3,000 farmers in 12 selected regions in 2019 for crossing with local hens to improve the live weight from 1.2kg to 1.5kg and egg laying rate from 70 to 110 eggs per year. A total of 7,500 small ruminants were also distributed to 750 farmers in six selected regions.

He said a total of 15 million seedlings of cashew; coffee, coconut, and oil palm were distributed to farmers. Parliament also passed the Tree Crop Development Bill, fashioned along the lines of COCOBOD, into law.

On Greenhouse Capacity Development Module, he said government had established three greenhouse training centres with commercial components, each on a five-hectare piece of land, at Dawhenya, Akumadan, and Bawjiase.

He said at the end of December 2019, the three centres had, together; trained 296 graduates in greenhouse vegetable production and a total of 180 graduates were targeted for training in 2020, of which 61 had been trained as of end-June 2020.

“The remaining 119 graduates are scheduled to receive their training during the second half of the year,” he said.

In the area of Mechanisation, 6,270 units of agricultural machinery and equipment were supplied to mechanisation service providers, Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, and farmer-based organisations to improve access to mechanisation services.

The Minister said this had reduced drudgery in farming and has improved efficiency in operational activities of farmers to enhance productivity.

He said government, under a Czech Republic Credit facility, took delivery of farm equipment worth €10,000,000.

These include 300 global multi-purpose mini-tractors with various accessories, and 220 Cabrio compact tractors with accessories such as rice reapers, rice threshers, and chemical applicators.

He said this equipment was for sale to small and medium-scale farmers across the country at 40 percent subsidy.

In addition, government took delivery of 1,000 rice harvesters (rice cutters) and 700 multifunctional threshers from China for distribution to rice farmers at 20 per cent subsidy.

These measures are to improve farmers' timely access to mechanised services and enhance productivity.

He said in the second half of the year, Government would conclude arrangements for the importation of about US$31 million worth of farm machinery and equipment, including hand-held equipment, tractors, combines harvesters, and rice mills, under the third tranche of the Brazil "More Food International Programme".

In the area of irrigation development, a total of 7,141 hectares of land were being developed for various irrigation systems.

These include Tamne phases I and II, Mprumem phases I and II, rehabilitation and expansion of existing schemes at Tono, Kpong Irrigation Schemes, and Kpong Left Bank Irrigation Project.

In addition, Government had invested in numerous small earth dams in the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, and the Savannah Regions to provide farmers with easy access to water.

He said as at June 2020, 11 out of 14 programmed small earth dams had been completed, an estimated irrigable area of 224 hectares would be developed in the next phase of construction.

Mr Ofori-Atta said in the second half of the year, government would complete the resettlement of people in Tamne and Mprumem to pave way for completion of these projects.

The Tono and Kpong Left Bank Irrigation Projects will be completed by December 2020 with the remaining three small earth dams, which are expected to irrigate over 80 hectares of crop lands, will also be constructed at the Dawhenya Greenhouse Village, Kaniago, and Ohawu Agricultural College.

https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Government-concludes-processes-to-purchase-livestock-and-poultry-species-1015870

 


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