India rice starts moving in Sri
Lanka, shortages over
The first batch of low priced rice out of the huge 100000 MT Indian
rice tranche has been offloaded and is now moving within Sri Lankan retail
market, ending any supply fears. Meanwhile, the open international tender call
for 200,000 MT rice in three varieties, also successfully closed in Colombo
last week. By the weekend of October 4-5, a total of 20,000 MT tranche of
parboiled ‘nadu’ rice sent by an Indian private sector supplier to the Cooperative
Wholesale Establishment (CWE) of Sri Lanka have been offloaded at Port of
Colombo and been distributed to CWE warehouses.
The value of the received 20000 MT rice stock is US $ 8.9 Mn (SL Rs
1.36 Bn). This rice stock is now being re-distributed from CWE warehouses to
Lanka Sathosa outlets to be sold at only Rs 74 per kilo. Any consumer
purchasing more than 25 kilos of this rice from Lanka Sathosa can buy them even
lower-only Rs 73 per kilo. Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen
addressing a press briefing on 1 November in Colombo, highlighting his efforts
to end rice supply shortages through yet another global tender call, said: “Our
international tender to import 200,000 MT rice closed yesterday 31 October.
Rice samples submitted with tender bids are being forwarded to ITI for lab
tests.” The latest tender is, unlike previous “Government to Government” (G2G)
tenders, a “Sri Lanka government to local and international private sector”
call. A total of 34 local and international private sector suppliers have
quoted for the 200,000 MT tender, that closed on 31 October and announced
initially on 19 October.
The Ministry has forwarded all the submitted quotes to the Cabinet
Appointed High Powered Tender Board which will compare prices of these international
and local private sector suppliers with “government to government” prices
quoted in previous G2G tender calls, before making final selections. The
international tender was floated by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of
Sri Lanka on the directions of government’s Cost of Living Committee. The
Cabinet Appointed High Powered Tender Board is expected to pick the qualifying
suppliers for this 200,000 MT international tender by this Friday 10 October.
Private sector suppliers from Pakistan, Myanmar, Thailand, India, and Vietnam
quoted. Several Sri Lankan suppliers too submitted their bids in this 200,000
MT total which consists of three varieties-90000 MT Parboiled Nadu rice, 60000
MT Samba (Parboiled) rice and 50000 MT White Raw rice.
Author Name:
http://www.lankabusinessonline.com/india-rice-starts-moving-in-sri-lanka-shortages-over/
Wheat slips on higher supply, rice basmati edges up
PTI | Nov
7, 2017, 14:32 IST
New Delhi, Nov 7 () Wheat prices
fell by Rs 20 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today on sufficient
stocks position due to pick-up in arrivals from growing regions against reduced
offtake by flour mills.
However, rice basmati went up on
stockists' buying.
Traders said besides adequate
stocks position on increased supplies from producing belts, reduced offtake by
flour mills, mainly led to the decline in wheat prices.
In the national capital, wheat MP
(desi) and wheat dara (for mills) settled lower at Rs 2,145-2,355 and Rs 1,835
-1,840 from previous levels of Rs 2,145-2,375 and Rs 1,855- 1,860 per quintal
respectively. Atta chakki delivery followed suit and traded lower by Rs 30 to
Rs 1,830-1,835 per 90 kg.
Atta flour mills, maida and sooji
also quoted lower at Rs 980-990, Rs 1,025-1,030 and Rs 1,060-1,080 instead of
Rs 1,000-1,010, Rs 1,030-1,040 and Rs 1,080-1,100 per 50 kg respectively in
line with wheat trend.
On the other hand, rice basmati
common and Pusa-1121 variety went up by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,900-8,000 and Rs
6,400-6,500 per quintal respectively.
Following are today's quotations
(in Rs per quintal):
Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,145-2,355,
Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,835-1,840, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,830-1,835,
Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour
mill Rs 980-990 (50 kg), Maida Rs 1,025-1,030 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080
(50 kg).
Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs
10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common
new Rs 7,900-8,000, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,400-6,500, Permal raw Rs 2,250-2,300,
Permal wand Rs 2,300-2,350, Sela Rs 2,500-2,700 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,900-1,925,
Bajra Rs 1,160-1,165, Jowar yellow Rs 1,350-1,400, white Rs 2,700-2,800, Maize
Rs 1,300- 1,305, Barley Rs 1,540-1,550. SUN KPS SBT
India's Rice
exports rose by 30% in Apr-Sept
India
Infoline News Service | Mumbai | November 07, 2017 12:04 IST
India's shipments of Rice
rose by over 30% in dollar terms and 25% in rupee terms during April-September
as European buyers built inventories in anticipation of tighter quality tests
effective November 1.
India's shipments of Rice rose by over 30% in
dollar terms and 25% in rupee terms during April-September as European buyers
built inventories in anticipation of tighter quality tests effective November
1.India's total farm exports jumped by 13 per cent during April-September
primarily driven by Rice, both basmati and non-basmati, which contribute nearly
44 per cent to the country’s annual farm shipments, the Agricultural and
Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) said.The value of
Basmati Rice exports jumped to $2.13 billion in April-September from $1.63
billion in the same period a year ago. Exporters’ realisation rose to $997 a
tonne from $789 a tonne last year. Rice exports were 2.13 million tonnes in
April- September, up from 2.07 million tonnes in the same period of 2016.The
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), in a communication to APEDA, said
Basmati Rice from India needed to pass through a pre-shipment residue test for
22 pesticides from November 1. APEDA clarified that the minimum residue limit
for propiconazole was under review.
https://www.indiainfoline.com/article/news-top-story/india-s-rice-exports-rose-by-30-in-apr-sept-117110700610_1.html
Rice production hit by floods in Northeast
Economy November 07, 2017 01:00
By The Nation
Floods have affected the outlook for rice crops
in the 2017-18 fiscal year.
Hom Mali
rice production in 2017-18 year is expected to be 7.16 million tonnes, about
11.28 per cent lower than anticipated.
Sticky
rice production is projected to reach 5.73 million tonnes of paddy rice, about
39 per cent lower than the target. The estimates came from a nationwide survey.
Chatchai
Sarikulya, Minister for Agriculture and Cooperatives, said that production of
both types of rice was forecast to be lower than the target plan due to
mid-year floods in the Northeast.
According
to Thai Rice Exporters’ Association, Hom Mali rice is expected to sell in the
range of Bt12,500-Bt13,000 per tonne.
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/Economy/30330959Nagpur
Foodgrain Prices
Open- November 08, 2017
Reuters | Nov
8, 2017, 13:40 IST
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices -
APMC/Open Market-November 8 Nagpur, Nov 8 (Reuters) - Gram prices recovered
strongly in Nagpur Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) on increased
seasonal demand from local millers amid weak supply from producing regions.
Fresh rise in Madhya Pradesh gram prices and reported demand from South-based
millers also helped to push up prices, according to sources.
FOODGRAINS & PULSES GRAM *
Gram varieties ruled steady in open market here on subdued demand from local
traders amid ample stock in ready position. TUAR * Tuar gavarani showed weak
tendency in open market here on lack of demand from local traders. * Wheat MP
Sharbati best and medium varieties reported higher in open market here on good
buying support from local traders and weak arrival from producing belts. * In
Akola, Tuar New - 3,950-4,050, Tuar dal (clean) - 5,900-6,100, Udid Mogar
(clean) - 7,900-8,400, Moong Mogar (clean) 7,000-7,300, Gram - 4,500-4,550,
Gram Super best - 7,300-7,500 * Other varieties of wheat, rice and other
foodgrain items moved in a narrow range in scattered deals and settled at last
levels in thin trading activity.
Nagpur foodgrains APMC
auction/open-market prices in rupees for 100 kg FOODGRAINS Available prices
Previous close Gram Auction 3,700-4,600 3,620-4,450 Gram Pink Auction n.a.
2,100-2,600 Tuar Auction n.a. 3,550-4,110 Moong Auction n.a. 3,900-4,200 Udid
Auction n.a. 4,300-4,500 Masoor Auction n.a. 2,600-2,800 Wheat Mill quality
Auction 1,600-1,650 1,600-1,680 Gram Super Best Bold 7,500-8,000 7,500-8,000
Gram Super Best n.a. n.a. Gram Medium Best 6,600-7,000 6,600-7,000 Gram Dal
Medium n.a. n.a Gram Mill Quality 3,800-3,900 3,800-3,900 Desi gram Raw
4,750-4,850 4,750-4,850 Gram Kabuli 12,500-13,200 12,500-13,200 Tuar Fataka
Best-New 6,200-6,400 6,200-6,400 Tuar Fataka Medium-New 5,800-6,000 5,800-6,000
Tuar Dal Best Phod-New 5,600-5,800 5,600-5,800 Tuar Dal Medium phod-New
5,000-5,300 5,000-5,300 Tuar Gavarani New 3,950-4,100 4,000-4,150 Tuar
Karnataka 4,300-4,600 4,300-4,600 Masoor dal best 5,100-5,400 5,100-5,400
Masoor dal medium 4,700-4,900 4,700-4,900 Masoor n.a. n.a. Moong Mogar bold
(New) 7,000-7,500 7,000-7,500 Moong Mogar Medium 6,300-6,600 6,300-6,600 Moong
dal Chilka 5,600-6,200 5,600-6,200 Moong Mill quality n.a. n.a. Moong Chamki
best 7,000-7,500 7,000-7,500 Udid Mogar best (100 INR/KG) (New) 8,000-8,800
8,000-8,800 Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG) 5,500-7,000 5,500-7,000 Udid Dal
Black (100 INR/KG) 5,100-6,300 5,100-6,300 Batri dal (100 INR/KG) 5,000-5,500
5,000-5,300 Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg) 2,800-3,000 2,800-3,000 Watana Dal (100
INR/KG) 2,900-3,000 2,900-3,000 Watana Green Best (100 INR/KG) 3,400-3,800
3,400-3,800 Wheat 308 (100 INR/KG) 1,900-2,000 1,900-2,000 Wheat Mill quality
(100 INR/KG) 1,750-1,900 1,750-1,90 Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG) 2,100-2,300
2,100-2,300 Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG) 2,200-2,450 2,200-2,400 Wheat Lokwan
medium (100 INR/KG) 1,900-2,150 1,900-2,100 Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG) n.a.
n.a. MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG) 3,100-3,600 3,000-3,600 MP Sharbati Medium
(100 INR/KG) 2,300-2,700 2,200-2,700 Rice BPT best (100 INR/KG) 3,000-3,500
3,000-3,500 Rice BPT medium (100 INR/KG) 2,800-2,900 2,800-2,900 Rice Luchai
(100 INR/KG) 2,200-2,400 2,200-2,400 Rice Swarna best (100 INR/KG) 2,500-2,600
2,500-2,600 Rice Swarna medium (100 INR/KG) 2,300-2,400 2,300-2,400 Rice HMT
best (100 INR/KG) 3,600-4,000 3,600-4,000 Rice HMT medium (100 INR/KG)
3,250-3,600 3,250-3,600 Rice Shriram best(100 INR/KG) 4,700-5,000 4,700-5,000
Rice Shriram med (100 INR/KG) 4,300-4,500 4,300-4,400 Rice Basmati best (100
INR/KG) 10,000-14,000 10,000-14,000 Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG)
5,000-7,500 5,000-7,500 Rice Chinnor best 100 INR/KG) 5,000-5,500 5,000-5,500
Rice Chinnor medium (100 INR/KG) 4,700-5,000 4,700-5,000 Jowar Gavarani (100
INR/KG) 2,000-2,200 2,000-2,100 Jowar CH-5 (100 INR/KG) 1,800-2,000 1,700-2,000
WEATHER (NAGPUR) Maximum temp. 32.2 degree Celsius, minimum temp. 16.3 degree
Celsius Rainfall : Nil FORECAST: Mainly clear sky. Maximum and minimum
temperature would be around and 32 and 16 degree Celsius respectively. Note:
n.a.--not available (For oils, transport costs are excluded from plant delivery
prices, but included in market prices)
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/nagpur-foodgrain-prices-open-november-08-2017/articleshow/61559636.cms
Rice imports hit US$1.2bn …800%
increase since 2007
November 7, 2017
The nation’s value of rice
imports reached US$1.2billion in 2015, an 800 percent increase from
US$152million in 2007, the Minister of Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto has
said.
“I have been able to assemble
data which clearly confirm that over the past ten years the volume and value of
food imports have gone beyond alarming proportions.
“An examination of the individual
items reveals even more disturbing trends. The value of rice imports has
escalated eight-fold – from US$152million in 2007 to a peak of US$1.2billion in
both 2014 and 2015.
“In the same period, the volume
of rice imports climbed from 441,000 metric tonnes to 630,000 metric tonnes,”
he said at the 4th National Rice Festival held in Accra.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie described the
development as worrying, saying it not only puts pressure on the nation’s trade
balance but has also made the economy vulnerable to global price increases and
supply shortages in the rice market.
A report by the Oxford Business
group indicates, though, that domestic rice production has increased by 12
percent over the 2010-15 period – although consumption has increased by double
that rate over the same timeframe.
The report adds that Ghana
imports between US$300million and US$500million of rice annually.
This, Dr. Owusu Afriyie said, is
not good for the country; and said further that plans are currently being
rolled out by government to address the situation.
Some of the programmes, he said,
include provision of imported seeds, supply of fertilisers, provision of
dedicated extension services, marketing strategy and the infusion of electronic
platforms in the undertaking of all activities involving food and agriculture.
He also added that the Korean
government, after conducting a study on rice production in Ghana, has offered
the nation US$9million to begin extensive rice production in the Central
Region.
Again, he said, the ministry is
facilitating revision of the National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS) to
reflect government’s vision for the rice sector and serve as a guide for all
projects and interventions in the rice sector.
The rice festival
Speaking on the theme ‘Ghana rice
for food, Ghana rice for jobs’, President of the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional
Body (GRIB) Mr. Imoro Amoro urged consumers to patronise locally produced rice
as it has advanced from its once-poor state to match international standards.
He also urged government to lead
the consumption of local rice by ensuring that all public institutions such as
government institutions and agencies, schools, hospitals, among others,
patronise it.
“We are appealing for government
to use its purchasing power to procure Ghana rice for all schools, and other
government agencies should ensure that Ghana rice is the first choice for all
rice procurement for the country. This will pave the way for other private
companies and individuals to follow the steps of government,” he said.
The two-day festival brought
together stakeholders of the rice sector: including rice farmers, processors,
sack-designers, tools and equipment manufacturers, among others.
Thailand Join Forces With Alibaba
In Selling Thai Rice Online
BANGKOK, Nov 6 -- The Thai
Agriculture Ministry has joined hands with Alibaba to promote Thai jasmine rice
to Chinese consumers through the online channel, Thai News Agency (TNA)
reported. Deputy Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Chutima Bunyapraphasara
said after attending "TMALL 11.11 Thai Hom Mali Rice Promotion" in
Hangzhou, the capital and most populous city of Zhejiang Province that the
11.11 shopping festival, held by Alibaba Group will help promote Thai jasmine
rice to Chinese consumers. Thai jasmine rice is only popular among China’s
coastal cities, but the distribution of Thai rice through Alibaba’s online
channel could support Thai high-quality rice to be more accessible to Chinese
consumers. The online platform will help Thai farmers to sell rice at good
prices and Chinese consumers will in return receive high quality rice at
reasonable prices, she said. -- BERNAMA
Captain called
into action after crop burning ban goes up in flames as paddy fields slowly
smoulder in Punjab and Haryana
- Sources said there is
little to no implementation of National Green Tribunal ban
- In many villages farmers
are said to continue burning with 'token penalties'
- Farmers claimed that
residue from the hybrid PR14 variety had already been burnt and now straw
from Basmati rice is about to be set ablaze
- That's despite Chief
Minister Amarinder Singh's government recently claiming that crop residue
in Punjab had fallen by a significant 30 per cent
- See more news from India
at www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-5055737/Crop-burning-ban-goes-flames-Punjab-Haryana.html#ixzz4xkpyh900
Wheat slips on
higher supply, rice basmati edges up
New
Delhi, Nov 7 () Wheat prices fell by Rs 20 per quintal at the wholesale grains
market today on sufficient stocks position due to pick-up in arrivals from
growing regions against reduced offtake by flour mills. However, rice basmati
went up on stockists' buying. Traders said besides adequate stocks position on
increased supplies from producing belts, reduced offtake by flour mills, mainly
led to the decline in wheat prices. In the national capital, wheat MP (desi)
and wheat dara (for mills) settled lower at Rs 2,145-2,355 and Rs 1,835 -1,840
from previous levels of Rs 2,145-2,375 and Rs 1,855- 1,860 per quintal
respectively. Atta chakki delivery followed suit and traded lower by Rs 30 to
Rs 1,830-1,835 per 90 kg. Atta flour mills, maida and sooji also quoted lower
at Rs 980-990, Rs 1,025-1,030 and Rs 1,060-1,080 instead of Rs 1,000-1,010, Rs
1,030-1,040 and Rs 1,080-1,100 per 50 kg respectively in line with wheat trend.
On the other hand, rice basmati common and Pusa-1121 variety went up by Rs 100
each to Rs 7,900-8,000 and Rs 6,400-6,500 per quintal respectively. Following
are today's quotations (in Rs per quintal): Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,145-2,355,
Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,835-1,840, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,830-1,835,
Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour
mill Rs 980-990 (50 kg), Maida Rs 1,025-1,030 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080
(50 kg). Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs 10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super
Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common new Rs 7,900-8,000, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs
6,400-6,500, Permal raw Rs 2,250-2,300, Permal wand Rs 2,300-2,350, Sela Rs
2,500-2,700 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,900-1,925, Bajra Rs 1,160-1,165, Jowar yellow Rs
1,350-1,400, white Rs 2,700-2,800, Maize Rs 1,300- 1,305, Barley Rs
1,540-1,550. SUN KPS SBT
Author Name:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/wheat-slips-on-higher-supply-rice-basmati-edges-up/articleshow/61544371.cms
Date: 07-Nov-2017
Aman output likely to fall
Farmers worked hard to recoup flood
losses, yet Aman yield projected to be 3.5 lakh tonnes less than last year's
♦ Aman cultivated on 58 lakh hectares this year
♦ 1.3cr tonnes of Aman output expected ♦ Overall rice
shortfall will be 14 lakh tonnes
Bangladesh is bracing itself for another less productive rice
season as the United States Department of Agriculture predicts decline in
acreage and yield of Aman. Aman is the most important rice season in the
country after Boro. A USDA field report has forecasted 1.3 crore tonnes of Aman
production this year. It is 3.5 lakh tonnes less than last year's yield. The
recent report has also noted fall in Aman acreage from last year's 59 lakh
hectares to 58 lakh this year. Overall, the USDA has projected 3.31 crore
tonnes of rice output in the country this fiscal year, down by 14 lakh tonnes
from last year's.
Officials at the agriculture ministry, however,
preferred not making any projections right away. Talking to The Daily Star
yesterday, Agriculture Minister Matia Chowdhury said, "Only six percent
Aman has so far been harvested. I don't like to make a projection at this
stage. A lot depends on the weather." She expressed optimism that the rice
output would be moderately good as farmers tried hard to recoup flood losses
during the very early stage of Aman transplantation. Thanks to the rain last
month and subsequent cooler weather, the pest infestation in Aman has largely
been subdued as well, Matia added. Farmers are going for a full-swing
harvesting of Aman, the rain-fed monsoon grain that typically contributes 38
percent to the country's yearly rice output, within a week.
Earlier, the food ministry said the country had lost 20 lakh tonnes of rice due
to the fungal attack -- blast -- and flash floods in north-eastern haor region
during the last Boro season. According to the Ministry of Disaster Management
and Relief, the second spell of flood this year has severely affected 208
upazilas and nearly 8,260,000 people. The agriculture sector suffered the
most. The government estimates that flooding completely washed away over 1 lakh
hectares and partially damaged another 5 lakh hectares. The floods and
the blast prompted the government to go for large-scale rice import from
Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, India and Myanmar. The private sectors are also
already on an import spree with rice import hitting the all-time high of 14
lakh tonnes in just first four months of this fiscal year. Prices of coarse
rice that had peaked in July-August period have come down but are still high by
at least 30 percent, comparing to last year's market prices of the staple. The
USDA and the agriculture ministry attributed the losses faced by farmers to
floods. They, however, said crop losses would be "nothing alarming"
as farmers tried hard to recoup them by going for late and secondary planting.
Officials at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute and the International Rice
Research Institute also lauded the farmers for going for rice varieties that
are submergence-tolerant and can withstand 15 to 17 days of stagnant
water.
THE USDA REPORT
The USDA report said, "The impact [of flood] on
food supplies and livelihood of farmers has been dramatic. Those estimates may actually
be conservative: according to the Humanitarian Coordination Task Team [HCTT],
the area of crop damage was 650,000 hectares. "Of the damage, the crops
most affected were Aus, Aman, Aman seedbed, seedling, jute, and vegetables. The
secondary flooding also destroyed freshly planted Aman paddy and seedbeds,
which dealt a fresh blow to farmers. "The resultant shortage of seedlings
caused a price shock and in turn replanting of Aman rice were down sharply from
market needs: some farmers switched to early winter crops instead of the costly
seedlings," the report said. Late planting and the use of less
productive local variety rice seeds would result in poor output, the USDA
forecast says. It also noted that though the transplanting of Aman was
completed quite late in the season owing to an atypical monsoon this year,
favourable weather for growth of Aman rice indicated a likely good harvest. The
USDA report adds, "Massive amounts of crops lost to flooding imposed
economic hardship on millions of farmers and households. The flooding affected
34 out of the 64 administrative districts of the country. "Heavy late
monsoon rains in the upstream provinces of Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal in
India caused flooding in the north-eastern districts of Bangladesh."
Rice imports hit US$1.2bn; 800%
increase since 2007
Dr. Afriyie
Akoto urged government to lead the consumption of local rice by patronizing it
The nation’s value of rice imports reached US$1.2billion in
2015, an 800 percent increase from US$152million in 2007, the Minister of
Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto has said.“I have been able to assemble data
which clearly confirm that over the past ten years the volume and value of food
imports have gone beyond alarming proportions.
“An examination of the individual items reveals even more disturbing trends. The value of rice imports has escalated eight-fold – from US$152million in 2007 to a peak of US$1.2billion in both 2014 and 2015.
“In the same period, the volume of rice imports climbed from 441,000 metric tonnes to 630,000 metric tonnes,” he said at the 4th National Rice Festival held in Accra.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie described the development as worrying, saying it not only puts pressure on the nation’s trade balance but has also made the economy vulnerable to global price increases and supply shortages in the rice market.
A report by the Oxford Business group indicates, though, that domestic rice production has increased by 12 percent over the 2010-15 period – although consumption has increased by double that rate over the same timeframe.
The report adds that Ghana imports between US$300million and US$500million of rice annually.
This, Dr. Owusu Afriyie said, is not good for the country; and said further that plans are currently being rolled out by government to address the situation.
Some of the programmes, he said, include provision of imported seeds, supply of fertilisers, provision of dedicated extension services, marketing strategy and the infusion of electronic platforms in the undertaking of all activities involving food and agriculture.
He also added that the Korean government, after conducting a study on rice production in Ghana, has offered the nation US$9million to begin extensive rice production in the Central Region.
Again, he said, the ministry is facilitating revision of the National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS) to reflect government’s vision for the rice sector and serve as a guide for all projects and interventions in the rice sector.
The rice festival
Speaking on the theme ‘Ghana rice for food, Ghana rice for jobs’, President of the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body (GRIB) Mr. Imoro Amoro urged consumers to patronise locally produced rice as it has advanced from its once-poor state to match international standards.
He also urged government to lead the consumption of local rice by ensuring that all public institutions such as government institutions and agencies, schools, hospitals, among others, patronise it.
“We are appealing for government to use its purchasing power to procure Ghana rice for all schools, and other government agencies should ensure that Ghana rice is the first choice for all rice procurement for the country. This will pave the way for other private companies and individuals to follow the steps of government,” he said.
The two-day festival brought together stakeholders of the rice sector: including rice farmers, processors, sack-designers, tools and equipment manufacturers, among others
“An examination of the individual items reveals even more disturbing trends. The value of rice imports has escalated eight-fold – from US$152million in 2007 to a peak of US$1.2billion in both 2014 and 2015.
“In the same period, the volume of rice imports climbed from 441,000 metric tonnes to 630,000 metric tonnes,” he said at the 4th National Rice Festival held in Accra.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie described the development as worrying, saying it not only puts pressure on the nation’s trade balance but has also made the economy vulnerable to global price increases and supply shortages in the rice market.
A report by the Oxford Business group indicates, though, that domestic rice production has increased by 12 percent over the 2010-15 period – although consumption has increased by double that rate over the same timeframe.
The report adds that Ghana imports between US$300million and US$500million of rice annually.
This, Dr. Owusu Afriyie said, is not good for the country; and said further that plans are currently being rolled out by government to address the situation.
Some of the programmes, he said, include provision of imported seeds, supply of fertilisers, provision of dedicated extension services, marketing strategy and the infusion of electronic platforms in the undertaking of all activities involving food and agriculture.
He also added that the Korean government, after conducting a study on rice production in Ghana, has offered the nation US$9million to begin extensive rice production in the Central Region.
Again, he said, the ministry is facilitating revision of the National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS) to reflect government’s vision for the rice sector and serve as a guide for all projects and interventions in the rice sector.
The rice festival
Speaking on the theme ‘Ghana rice for food, Ghana rice for jobs’, President of the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body (GRIB) Mr. Imoro Amoro urged consumers to patronise locally produced rice as it has advanced from its once-poor state to match international standards.
He also urged government to lead the consumption of local rice by ensuring that all public institutions such as government institutions and agencies, schools, hospitals, among others, patronise it.
“We are appealing for government to use its purchasing power to procure Ghana rice for all schools, and other government agencies should ensure that Ghana rice is the first choice for all rice procurement for the country. This will pave the way for other private companies and individuals to follow the steps of government,” he said.
The two-day festival brought together stakeholders of the rice sector: including rice farmers, processors, sack-designers, tools and equipment manufacturers, among others
https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Rice-imports-hit-US-1-2bn-800-increase-since-2007-598079
Rain ravages Bangladesh rice
planting area
November 7, 2017 - by
Eric Schroeder
WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S. — Heavy and prolonged rain in
Bangladesh have hurt prospects for rice area and production in the nation,
according to an Oct. 30 Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) report
from the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA).
Total area planted to rice in
Bangladesh is estimated at 11.372 million hectares in 2017-18, down from 11.748
million hectares in 2016-17, according to the USDA. Meanwhile, production of
rice is forecast at 33.150 million tonnes, down from 34.578 million tonnes in
2016-17.
“Massive amounts of crops lost to
flooding imposed economic hardship on millions of farmers and households,” the
USDA noted in the GAIN report. “After a devastating early flash flood in March,
a second monsoon caused heavy flooding in July and especially August. The
flooding affected 34 districts out of 64 administrative districts of the
country. Heavy late monsoon rains in the upstream provinces of Assam, Meghalaya
and Arunachal in India caused flooding in the north-eastern districts of
Bangladesh. Out of 90 river water level monitoring stations in the country, 30
stations showed readings above the danger level of flooding. In one river,
Jamuna at Bahadurabad point, the flood level reached 135 cm above the danger
level, the highest flooding on record.”
Citing government of Bangladesh
data, the USDA said flooding completely washed away an estimated 100,000
hectares and partially damaged another 500,000 hectares. The most affected
areas were Aus rice, Aman rice, Aman rice seedbed, seedling, jute and
vegetables, the USDA said.
Bangladesh, which once was a major
rice producer, has become a major rice importer, the USDA said. Bangladesh
currently has several government-to-government rice import deals in place,
including with Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, India and Thailand, the USDA noted
in the report. In the case of India, it is the first rice trade deal between
the countries in a decade.
http://www.world-grain.com/articles/news_home/World_Grain_News/2017/11/Rain_ravages_Bangladesh_rice_p.aspx?ID={03A0E8D9-2FB8-4A71-945D-C5A9CF0B1CB3}&cck=1
Elimination
of Certain Co-op Deductions Could Doom Proposed Tax Reform Legislation
By Lydia Holmes
WASHINGTON, DC -- Last Thursday Congressman Kevin Brady
(R-TX), chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced a huge tax
reform bill he says will simplify the tax code, lower individual rates, and
create jobs. The "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" includes several
obvious wins for agriculture including the repeal of the estate tax and
maintaining stepped-up basis for the inheritance of farm property, however,
there are still questions about how beneficial the tax plan will be for farmers
and ag businesses.
"We are worried that provisions in the House tax bill could hamper growth for many farms and ranches, and could actually increase the amount of taxes these operations pay," said Jeff Wald, CEO of K·Coe Isom, an agricultural accounting and consulting firm, who emphasized that the bill would remove or alter many deductions used by farmers and ranchers today, such as interest deductibility and immediate expensing.
One particular provision continues to be a point of contention - the elimination of the Domestic Production Activities Deduction (Sec. 199), or DPAD, used by farm co-ops. The DPAD is a deduction that applies to proceeds from agricultural products that are manufactured, produced, or grown by farmers. There are special provisions that allow cooperatives to pass the benefit of the deduction directly through to their farmer members. According to the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the deduction returns nearly $2 billion annually to rural areas in all 50 states.
"Our co-op members pass the Section 199 deduction back to their individual farmer owners, most of whom are not organized to pay taxes under the corporate code, thus the corporate rate reduction in the package won't reach them. But if Section 199 goes away, a tax hike will reach them," said Ben Mosely, USA Rice vice president of government affairs. "With the agricultural economy where it is - the deepest slump since the Great Depression - farmers can't afford the increase in their tax burden that the repeal of Section 199 would lead to."
"We are worried that provisions in the House tax bill could hamper growth for many farms and ranches, and could actually increase the amount of taxes these operations pay," said Jeff Wald, CEO of K·Coe Isom, an agricultural accounting and consulting firm, who emphasized that the bill would remove or alter many deductions used by farmers and ranchers today, such as interest deductibility and immediate expensing.
One particular provision continues to be a point of contention - the elimination of the Domestic Production Activities Deduction (Sec. 199), or DPAD, used by farm co-ops. The DPAD is a deduction that applies to proceeds from agricultural products that are manufactured, produced, or grown by farmers. There are special provisions that allow cooperatives to pass the benefit of the deduction directly through to their farmer members. According to the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the deduction returns nearly $2 billion annually to rural areas in all 50 states.
"Our co-op members pass the Section 199 deduction back to their individual farmer owners, most of whom are not organized to pay taxes under the corporate code, thus the corporate rate reduction in the package won't reach them. But if Section 199 goes away, a tax hike will reach them," said Ben Mosely, USA Rice vice president of government affairs. "With the agricultural economy where it is - the deepest slump since the Great Depression - farmers can't afford the increase in their tax burden that the repeal of Section 199 would lead to."
Mosely
continued, "This legislation is obviously complex and we'll be weighing in
throughout the process in hopes to improve it. At the end of the day
to our farmers, tax reform means that the amount they pay in taxes every
year goes down. If taxes stayed about the same after reform, they'd
probably wonder what all the fuss was about. But if their taxes go up
that would be nonstarter."
This week the bill will go through a committee markup in the House where there is potential for change and amendment. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch plans to release a version for his Committee to consider after the House Ways and Means Committee completes their deliberations.
USARICE DAILY
Tiny Bees
Loom Large In Tree Reproduction, Texas Scientists Say
Smallest bees cover distances
just as far as larger pollinating cousins, playing tiny matchmaker role in
long-distance tree love.
By Tony
Cantu (Patch Staff) -
Updated Nov 7, 2017 10:15 am ET
AUSTIN, TX — Long-distance love
affairs can be tough, especially for trees. But University of Texas at Austin
scientists have found that tiny bees play a much larger role in keeping the
flames of arbor romance alive than previously believed.
The size of ladybugs, those tiny
bees play a critical role in what's essentially sex between plants. In a
finding that might make Maury Povich proud, UT-Austin researchers discovered
their key role following one of the most detailed paternity tests in wild trees
ever conducted, university officials said Monday.
The research yields new insight
into how the pollinating insects promote genetic diversity essential for
plants' adaptation in the face of disease, climate change and other threats
relevant for agriculture and reforestation efforts worldwide, officials said.
In the scientists study published this week in the Proceedings of the
National Academy of Sciences, researchers identified pathways
that hundreds of wild bees traveled to and from the trees they pollinated
across a forest area of more than 2.5 square miles, officials explained.
To biologists' great surprise,
the smallest bees managed to cover distances just as far as their larger
pollinating cousins, frequently acting as tiny matchmakers for trees separated
by more than a mile, scientists acknowledged. Moreover, in half of the cases
where a pair of trees separated by a significant distance created a fruit
together, the pollen had been carried by a bee no bigger than a grain of rice,
scientists found.
"Size isn't
everything," said Shalene Jha, an
associate professor of integrative biology and the primary investigator on the
study. "These little bees are responsible for major beneficial impacts in
terms of reproduction and gene flow."
The mapping of trees, bees and
genetic markers took roughly four years and spanned three sections of a
tropical rainforest near the Panama Canal, scientists explained. The area of
study was 10 times the size of most previous research projects attempting to
map pollen movement mediated by bees, researchers noted.
"If you work in a small
portion of forest, you're only capable of measuring pollen movement in a small
area," Jha said. "We picked up the signal about how far these little
bees move because we started doing work that was commensurate with the scale at
which they're actually flying."
More than 85 percent of plants,
including nearly two-thirds of food crops, rely on bees and other pollinating
insects for sexual reproduction. UT-Austin scientists noted that most studies
of pollinating insects have focused primarily on larger bees, which carry the
most pollen and, thus, help plants produce the most fruit and seeds.
But consider this: There are tens
of thousands of bee species. Jha and her team wanted to understand more about
the function of smaller bees among the dizzying array of species. Among their
discoveries, UT-Austin scientists found that tiny bees pay more visits to
flowers than their larger counterparts, and they cover remarkable distances as
they pollinate.
Stated another way to illustrate
their pollinating prowess: Bees as small as a few millimeters move pollen
across areas more than a million times their body size, scientists learned. To
put that in human perspective, an average adult person would need to travel from
spots about as far apart as Los Angeles and Chicago to cover an equivalent
distance.
Because these long-distance
matches help prevent inbreeding among closely related plants, the far-flying
bees aid trees in having a thriving new generation of offspring to replace
them, scientists said.
"We haven't traditionally
asked how pollinators influence the way genes are passed on across generations,
but it's incredibly important for long-term population persistence," Jha
said. "We typically look at seeds or the number of seeds when we want to
know a bee's role in pollination service, but not 'who are the fathers of these
seeds?' "
But really, is lineage
information important to know? Are such paternity tests really necessary? In a
word, yes. Jha said that knowing the parents of any given seed or plant is
essential. Farmers and foresters have long used this sort of information to
plan not only for quantity in output but also quality — juicier or larger
fruits in a crop, for example, or faster-growing trees in a forest.
That knowledge is especially
critical among biodiversity hot spots, such as Panama where Miconia trees play
a central role in the nation's rainforests. In the past half-century alone,
deforestation has reduced the proportion of forest in the country by almost 30
percent, causing erosion and other challenges in an economically vital
watershed surrounding the Panama Canal.
Jha believes the new study sheds
light both on how pollinators of all sizes can help to promote plant
reproduction and reforestation in places like Panama, and how small pollinators
help plants in ecosystems worldwide, she said.
Bee species in most places,
including the U.S. tend to vary in size and in pollinating behaviors in ways
that are similar to the species studied in Panama, Jha noted. Because smaller
bees have often shown more resilience than their larger cousins to threats such
as habitat destruction, it's helpful to know their potential as pollen
dispersers in the face of other bees' decline, she added.
Postdoctoral researcher Antonio
Castilla was first author on the paper with Jha. The study's co-authors were UT
Austin graduate students Nathaniel Pope and Megan O'Connell, UT Austin
undergraduate Maria Rodriguez, Jha lab outreach coordinator Laurel Trevino, and
the University of Panama's Alonso Santos.
Partial funding support was
provided by the National Science Foundation.
>>> Image: A stingless
bee visits a Miconia tree near Soberania National Park, Panama. Researchers
from The University of Texas at Austin spent nearly four years mapping trees,
bees, and pollen to reveal how different pollinators aid in the sexual
reproduction of trees in one of the most detailed pollinator-mediated paternity
tests in wild plants. Antonio Castilla/UT-Austin.
https://patch.com/texas/north-austin/tiny-bees-loom-large-tree-reproduction-texas-scientists-say
Preference for
wheat, rice limiting Punjab farmers' incomes
Moreover, the gross state domestic
product (GSDP) of Punjab at constant prices has risen by just 11.6 per cent in
the six years to 2015-16
Sanjeeb Mukherjee
| New Delhi Last Updated at November 8, 2017 01:31 IST
31
Scientists in Punjab feel that the central government’s ambitious
goal of doubling farmers’ incomes by 2022 could be ‘difficult’ to achieve in
the state because of the high productivity levels of wheat and rice and an
extremely high cropping intensity, almost 204 per cent, that makes
diversification to other crops challenging.
Moreover, the gross state domestic product (GSDP) of Punjab at
constant prices has risen by just 11.6 per cent in the six years to 2015-16,
while to double farmers’ incomes, the GSDP from agriculture (crops and
livestock) needs to rise from an estimated Rs 87,532 crore in 2015-16 to over
Rs 175,064 crore in 2022. The GSDP in the crop sector rose by 2.9 per
cent in Punjab, while for livestock it increased by 32.3 per cent in the last
six years.
Making a presentation during a seminar on Doubling Farmers’
Incomes by 2022 last week, scientists from Punjab Agricultural University, the
Indian Council of Agriculture Research’s (ICAR’s) Central Institute for
Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, and Guru Angad Dev Animal and Veterinary
Sciences University said managing the declining water table and overcoming the
adverse impact of climate variability were some of the major challenges in the
state.
Punjab with 4.2 million hectares of net sown area, of which 99 per
cent is irrigated, is among the foremost agricultural states in the
country.
Punjab’s annual productivity in paddy is a high 61.9 quintals per
hectare, while in wheat it is 50.5 quintals
per hectare.
The presentation showed that encouraging cultivation of high-value
crops like vegetables, fruits and agro-forestry, which yield better returns;
promoting integrated farming systems in small and marginal farms; rationalising
the use of chemical fertilisers; and raising yields of important crops through
technological innovation were some of the measures through which farmers’
incomes could be doubled in the state by 2022.
It also noted that reducing the use of pesticides, raising capital
expenditure on farm machinery, promoting precision agriculture technologies and
encouraging adoption of subsidiary occupations were some of the other ways in
which incomes could be doubled.
The scientists also listed yields of various crops by agro-climatic
zones that could potentially be raised by 2022 to enhance farmers’ incomes
across the state.
The Centre has embarked on an ambitious target of doubling
farmers’ incomes by 2022.
A draft strategy paper released by the ministry of agriculture a few
months ago estimated the average income of agriculture households in 2015-16 at
Rs 96,703 at current prices, while at 2011-12 prices it was estimated at Rs
74,108. Incomes are planned to increased with the help of additional public and
private investment.
The first four volumes of the 14-part draft report also showed
that the targeted increase in incomes would lead to increasing the share of
farm income in total farmer household income from 60.2 per cent in 2015-16 (the
base year) to 69.22 in 2022-23 across all states.
www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/preference-for-wheat-rice-limiting-punjab-farmers
Wheat
slips on higher supply, rice basmati edges up
PTI | Nov
7, 2017, 14:32 IST
New Delhi, Nov 7 () Wheat prices
fell by Rs 20 per quintal at the wholesale grains market today on sufficient
stocks position due to pick-up in arrivals from growing regions against reduced
offtake by flour mills.
However, rice basmati went up on
stockists' buying.
Traders said besides adequate
stocks position on increased supplies from producing belts, reduced offtake by
flour mills, mainly led to the decline in wheat prices.
In the national capital, wheat MP
(desi) and wheat dara (for mills) settled lower at Rs 2,145-2,355 and Rs 1,835
-1,840 from previous levels of Rs 2,145-2,375 and Rs 1,855- 1,860 per quintal
respectively. Atta chakki delivery followed suit and traded lower by Rs 30 to
Rs 1,830-1,835 per 90 kg.
Atta flour mills, maida and sooji
also quoted lower at Rs 980-990, Rs 1,025-1,030 and Rs 1,060-1,080 instead of
Rs 1,000-1,010, Rs 1,030-1,040 and Rs 1,080-1,100 per 50 kg respectively in
line with wheat trend.
On the other hand, rice basmati
common and Pusa-1121 variety went up by Rs 100 each to Rs 7,900-8,000 and Rs
6,400-6,500 per quintal respectively.
Following are today's quotations
(in Rs per quintal):
Wheat MP (desi) Rs 2,145-2,355,
Wheat dara (for mills) Rs 1,835-1,840, Chakki atta (delivery) Rs 1,830-1,835,
Atta Rajdhani (10 kg) Rs 260-300, Shakti Bhog (10 kg) Rs 255-290, Roller flour
mill Rs 980-990 (50 kg), Maida Rs 1,025-1,030 (50 kg)and Sooji Rs 1,060-1,080
(50 kg).
Basmati rice (Lal Quila) Rs
10,700, Shri Lal Mahal Rs 11,300, Super Basmati Rice Rs 9,800, Basmati common
new Rs 7,900-8,000, Rice Pusa (1121) Rs 6,400-6,500, Permal raw Rs 2,250-2,300,
Permal wand Rs 2,300-2,350, Sela Rs 2,500-2,700 and Rice IR-8 Rs 1,900-1,925,
Bajra Rs 1,160-1,165, Jowar yellow Rs 1,350-1,400, white Rs 2,700-2,800, Maize
Rs 1,300- 1,305, Barley Rs 1,540-1,550. SUN KPS SBT
With Asean
meet in Metro Manila, spend a 5-day breather in these destinations
Philippine Daily Inquirer /
07:22 AM November 08, 2017
A pedestrian walks pass a colorful ASEAN signage at the
Cultural Center of the Philippines (CPP) complex in Pasay City as the country prepares
to host the leaders summit next week.
INQUIRER PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
INQUIRER PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE
Metro
Manila workers and residents will have a five-day breather as world leaders
converge on Manila next week for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(Asean) Summit.
With time
to spare and, hopefully, with their bonuses in, they can head off to vacation
destinations near and far for that much needed break.
Southern,
central and northern Luzon offer a variety of activities to do and places to
see, without having to burn pockets or spend much time on the road.
ADVERTISEMENT
Southern
Tagalog
In Cavite
province, tourist destinations and accommodations are looking forward to the
rush of vacationers, said Lani Diesta, tourism officer of Tagaytay City.
Tagaytay’s
“tourism strip,” the 28-kilometer stretch from the city rotunda to the boundary
of Nasugbu, Batangas province, is dotted with coffee shops, hotels, spas, art
museums and restaurants.
“Just
don’t forget to pack your jackets,” Diesta said, warning guests of low temperatures
this time of year.
Among the
best known places to relax in is Nurture Wellness Village. The facility offers
accommodation and a 6,000-square-meter organic farm of medicinal plants and
vegetables.
The
provincial government promotes heritage tours that remind people of the
Philippine Revolution. There are eight historical museums, the most popular of
which is Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit town, a few minutes’ ride from the Cavite
Expressway.
Guides
also offer a walking tour to the traditional “pandayan” or bolo-making street.
In Carmona
town, there is paragliding in Barangay Lantik. This activity may be your best
chance to unleash the thrill-seeker in you since paragliding is available only
from November to April.
Batangas
is where you’ll find a quick dose of that “vitamin sea”—even in a “ber” month.
The town of Mabini, known for its diving spots, has rebuilt itself quickly
since the series of earthquakes in April. The beaches of Laiya in San Juan town
have been the province’s major attractions.
ADVERTISEMENT
But if you
prefer to cuddle in breezy weather, visit Lipa City, a two-to three-hour travel
from Manila. Find the best “lomi” or “goto” at Lomi King, Gotohan sa Barangay
or Aling Tessie’s.
The Farm
at San Benito in Barangay Tipakan is a “holistic wellness destination” that
offers detoxification procedures, yoga retreats and complete amenities for a
rejuvenating five-day break.
Golfers
may spend their days off at Malarayat Golf and Country Club or at Summit Point
Golf and Country Club. Both are open even to nonmembers.
Rizal
Rizal
province is a next-door destination for Metro Manila residents, especially
nature-trippers. The town of Tanay offers outdoor activities, such as
spelunking at Calinawan Cave or swimming in Daranak Falls.
Close
by, at Baras town, is Masungi Georeserve, a conservation area with a three to
four-hour full round trail amid rock formations. The facility includes a
hanging bridge, rope courses and the “sapot,” a large weblike platform on which
to view the Laguna de Bay.
Antipolo
City has its iconic cathedral at the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good
Voyage. Spend the night in one of the hotels and inns overlooking Metro Manila
and try not to miss Pinto Art Museum, a 1.2-hectare gallery of modern and
contemporary art.
Laguna
province is known for its day-tour destinations, such as the world-class theme
park Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa City. Nuvali area offers activities, such
as trail biking, horseback riding and koi feeding.
Further
south is a nature trip on bamboo rafts or “balsa” in Pandin Lake, one of the
seven interconnected lakes of San Pablo City. There are a number of natural
falls to choose from in Majayjay, Cavinti, Pagsanjan and Pangil towns.
Paete is
known for its traditional woodcarving. Spend a day in this town and bring home
cheap but beautifully handcrafted Christmas decorations.
In Calamba
City and Los Baños town, let the hot, natural springs warm you up this month.
But try not to lose patience over the heavy traffic.
Wake up to
majestic Mount Makiling or stroll the panoramic Pili drive that leads to the
International Rice Research Institute.
Northern
and central Luzon
Hundred
Islands National Park at Alaminos City in Pangasinan offers snorkeling, diving,
banana boat rides and kayaking. Tourists can also try the zip lines, wall
climbing and rappelling.
They can
also visit Science City of Muñoz in Nueva Ecija province and discover
technologies that changed farming through the Philippine Rice Research
Institute (PhilRice), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Philippine Center
for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), Philippine Carabao
Center (PCC), and Tilapia Science Center.
PhilRice
exhibits will teach tourists about the different varieties of rice. Its
five-hectare “Future Rice Farm” is also a major attraction.
Nine
kilometers away is CLSU, proclaimed in 2001 as the “Agro-tourism Site for
Luzon.” It has an agricultural museum that houses rice and vegetable planting
implements, indigenous utensils, and hunting and fishing tools.
In Bulacan
province, Angat Dam in Norzagaray town was opened as an ecotourism site in
2016, providing a view of the Sierra Madre mountains, the zigzag road and the
Bitbit River and bridge at the foot of the dam.
In City of
Malolos are “Kalutong Bulakenyo” restaurants, such as Bistro Malolenyo and
Bahay Tisa, whose menus feature the favorite cuisine of revolutionary heroes.
In Tarlac
province, visitors can go to The Farmhouse in Capas town, an agritourism farm
that offers accommodation facilities. Guests can take part in farm work, such
as planting rice, milking cows and feeding hogs or touring the farm on a
carabao-drawn cart. Food is served in a farm-to-table restaurant.
The
adventurous can trek to Mount Pinatubo via Barangay Santa Juliana, 22 km from
the town center of Capas.
Spiritually
inclined families can visit Monasterio de Tarlac in San Jose town. A 9.14-meter
statue of the Risen Christ is found in the 29-hectare pilgrimage park.
Alternative
CamSur sites
An hour
away by plane from Metro Manila is the Bicol region, where unspoiled beaches
and nature greet visitors.
At Naga
City in Camarines Sur province, tourists may try church visits starting with
Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. The Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de
Peñafrancia is the home of the original image of the Virgin of Peñafrancia,
locally called “Ina” (Mother).
The old
churches in Milaor, Bombon, Calabanga and Libmanan towns are also popular to
tourists.
Aguirangan
Island in Presentacion town is perfect for the adventurous type. Tourists can
enjoy the white sand beaches of Caramoan and Atulayan Island in Sagñay town.
Mt. Isarog Natural Park is open to
trekkers. —Reports from Maricar Cinco, Rey Anthony
Ostria, Anselmo Roque, Carmela Reyes-Estrope and Gabriel Cardinoza
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/943825/with-asean-meet-in-metro-manila-spend-a-5-day-breather-in-these-destinations
