Tuesday, January 09, 2018

9th January,2018 daily global regional local rice e-newsletter by riceplus magazine

Experts: Haor regions need short-duration rice varieties to avoid crop damage in flash flood
Mahadi Al Hasnat
Published at 10:36 PM January 08, 2018
Last updated at 11:00 PM January 08, 2018

Speakers at a session of the inaugural day of the 4th Annual Gobeshona Conference for Research on Climate Change in Bangladesh (Gobeshona 4), at Independent University, Bangladesh on January 8, 2017.Mahmud Hossain Opu/Dhaka Tribune
'Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice.'
Cold-tolerant and short-duration rice varieties need to be developed for the farmers in Haor regions in the country so that they can harvest the crop before the onset of flash floods reducing the risk of losses, experts and researchers opined on Monday.
A number of local and international agricultural researchers came up with the remarks at the fourth annual conference on climate change research in Bangladesh, titled “Gobeshona,” held at Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) in Dhaka.
They researchers said BRRI dhan28 and BRRI dhan 29, the two high yielding varieties (HYVs) that are cultivated in around 90% of the arable lands in the Haor regions, are not ideal for the Haor areas as they were susceptible to damage during the cold spells around February-March (low night temperatures) the risk of damage from flash floods on account of their long duration.
The researchers have proposed two different strategies — to develop short growth duration (120-135 days) cold-tolerant rice varieties maintaining the current crop calendar of the farmers, and to develop medium-duration (135-145 days) cold-tolerant varieties seeding at least 15 days earlier than the existing common practice.
________________________________________
“In both cases, crop could be harvested before the onset of flash flood (within March) and due to cold-tolerant ability (at reproductive stage) no sterility-related problems will occur,” said Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, a scientist (Plant Breeder) at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
In recent years, the Haor areas have experienced major flash floods in the first week of April which had led to the complete inundation of matured rice just before the harvest.
“This flood has caused huge losses to the farmers and threatens the food security and livelihood of the people living in these areas in particular and in Bangladesh in general,” Dr Rafiqul’s study said.
The study titled “Improving livelihood by promoting rice-based technologies in Haor areas of Bangladesh” said last year in April 2017, flash flood resulted in more than 0.3 million hectares areas being inundated at maturity, flowering or dough stage of rice, causing paddy production loss of more than 1.5 million tons.
“Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice,” the study added.
Dr Humnath Bhandari, the interim IRRI representative for Bangladesh said the flash floods have been occurring before the usual time as a result of climate change in the country while premeasured efforts would help to reduce the risk for farmers in Haor regions.
The experts also stressed the need for mechanization in agricultural sector, especially in the Haor regions so that the farmers can harvest within a short time with the help of digital technologies and machinery support soon after the crops are mature.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/science/2018/01/08/haor-short-duration-crop-damage/
Preservation, repair work of Mohenjo Daro continues
Our Correspondent
JANUARY 9, 2018
 LARKANA: Preservation and repair work of world heritage monuments of Mohenjo Daro are continuing on site. In this connection architect, Naveed Sangah said that they have obtained samples of mud and water used in preparing katcha bricks which were first tested on site and now these samples would be sent to laboratories of the Rice Research Institute of Dokri and Mehran University, Jamshoro for proper analysis to ascertain whether mud and water combination matches the requirement.
Ancient civilization needs to be saved from trampling, weather conditions and rains. He said that after the tests, bricks would be prepared which would be used for flooring old rooms, strengthening existing sewage drains and dilapidated walls and so forth so that originality remains intact. He said that laboratory will check whether mud or water has any arsenic effects and if they were found usable then further work would be carried out.
https://dailytimes.com.pk/177018/preservation-repair-work-mohenjo-daro-continues/
Davao City council approves ‘half-rice’ ordinance
Jan. 09, 2018 ROBBY JOY D. SALVERON
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Food establishments here in the city will soon be required to include one-half cup of cooked rice in their menu as councilors voted with finality the “Davao Rice Conservation Ordinance.”
The ordinance authored by Councilor Marissa P. Salvador-Abella was approved on Tuesday, January 8, during the City Council’s regular session.
This aims to make one-half cup of rice serving as an option that would help minimize wastage of rice in the city.
The measure covers all businesses, institutions and companies responsible for any sale of meals such as restaurants, schools, offices, hospitals, cafeterias, catering operations, fast food chains and other food related services operating within Davao City.
Eat-all-you-can business establishments are exempted from the ordinance unless they are serving “plate-in or ala carte meals.”
“As a form of public information and awareness, such information shall be mandatorily contained in the menu and be made known by the attending service crew, waiter, waitress or cashier to the consumer before the latter shall commence ordering,” Section 4 of the ordinance read.
The City Health Office and the City Agriculturist Office will serve as the leading agencies tasked to monitor and conduct inspections on food establishments.
Based on a research conducted by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in 2012, the Philippines wastes more than 300,000 tons of rice annually amounting to P23 million every day or about P8.4 billion a year.
To date, Davao City will add up to the list of cities with “half-cup of rice ordinance” such as Quezon City, Manila, Cebu City and Iloilo City. (davaotoday.com)
http://davaotoday.com/main/economy/davao-half-rice-ordinance/

Rice Husk Ash Market Trend Consumption, Cost and Profit analysis and Forecast from 2017-2022
8 JANUARY 2018 BY ARUN PATIL
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 The Rice Husk Ash Market to grow at a substantial Compound Annual Growth Rate during the forecast period 2017-2022.
 Geographical Segmentation of Rice Husk Ash Market:
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
Middle East and Africa
Rest of World (ROW)
 The Report highlights key market dynamics of sector. Various definitions and classification of the industry, applications of the industry and chain structure are given. The current market scenario and future prospects of the sector also have been studied. Additionally, prime strategical activities in the market, which includes product developments, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, etc., are discussed.
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Rice Husk Ash Market Overview (2017 – 2022)
Product Overview and Scope
Market Segment by Type
Production Market Share
Rice Husk Ash Consumption Market Share by Application
Market Size (Value) and Applications
Rice Husk Ash Status and Outlook
Government Policies
Rice Husk Ash Market Competition by Manufacturers (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market by Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers
Revenue and Share by Manufacturers
Average Price by Manufacturers By Market
Manufacturers Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area, Product Type
Market Competitive Situation and Trends
Market Concentration Rate
Rice Husk Ash Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers
Rice Husk Ash Market Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis (2017 – 2022)
Company Name
Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors
Rice Husk Ash Market by Product Type, Application and Specification
Company A Rice Husk Ash Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
Main Business/Business Overview
Rice Husk Ash Market Capacity, Production, Revenue, Consumption, Export and Import (2017 – 2022)
Market Capacity, Production and Growth
Revenue and Growth of Market
Production, Consumption, Export and Import
Rice Husk Ash Market Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market by Production and Market Share by Type
Revenue and Market Share by Type
Price by Type
Production Growth by Type
Rice Husk Ash Market Analysis by Application (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market Consumption and Market Share by Application
Consumption Growth Rate by Application
Market Drivers and Opportunities
Potential Application
Emerging Markets/Countries
Rice Husk Ash Market Analysis by Regions (Provinces) (2017 – 2022)
Production Market, Production Value and Price by Regions (Provinces)
Production and Market Share by Regions (Provinces)
Production Value and Market Share by Regions (Provinces)
Sales Price by Regions (Provinces)
Consumption by Regions (Provinces)
Production, Consumption, Export and Import
Rice Husk Ash Market Manufacturing Cost Analysis (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market by Key Raw Materials Analysis
Key Raw Materials
Price Trend of Key Raw Materials
Key Suppliers of Raw Materials
Market Concentration Rate of Raw Materials
Proportion of Manufacturing Cost Structure
Raw Materials
Labour Cost
Manufacturing Expenses
Manufacturing Process Analysis of Rice Husk Ash
Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers (2017 – 2022)
Industrial Chain Analysis
Upstream Raw Materials Sourcing
Raw Materials Sources of Rice Husk Ash Market by Major Manufacturers
Downstream Buyers
Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Marketing Channel
Direct Marketing
Indirect Marketing
Marketing Channel Development Trend
Market Positioning
Pricing Strategy
Brand Strategy
Target Client
Distributors/Traders List
Market Effect Factors Analysis (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market by Technology Progress/Risk
Substitutes Threat
Technology Progress in Related Industry
Consumer Needs/Customer Preference Change
Economic/Political Environmental Change
Rice Husk Ash Market Forecast (2017 – 2022)
Rice Husk Ash Market by Capacity, Production, Revenue Forecast
Production, Import, Export and Consumption Forecast
Production Forecast by Type and Price Forecast
Consumption Forecast by Application
Rice Husk Ash Market Production, Consumption, Import and Export Forecast by Regions (Provinces)
Production Forecast by Regions (Provinces)
Consumption Forecast by Regions (Provinces)
Production, Consumption, Import and Export Forecast by Regions (Provinces)
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http://www.military-technologies.net/2018/01/08/rice-husk-ash-market-trend-consumption-cost-and-profit-analysis-and-forecast-from-2017-2022/
Thailand’s rice exports reach record high in 2017
Thai Rice Exporters Association President Charoen Laothammatas (Source: thainews)
Bangkok (NNT/VNA) - The Thai Rice Exporters Association revealed that rice exports reached a record high last year with most of the demand coming from Benin in West Africa.  Thai Rice Exporters Association President, Pol Lt Charoen Laothammatas, said the export of Thai rice grew 20 percent during the first 11 months of last year when a total of 10.4 million tons, worth 156 billion baht, were exported.  Rice exports in November last year expanded 47 percent compared with the same month in 2016. The highest demand for Thai rice came from Benin, China, South Africa, Cameroon and the United States.  Although the official figure for December’s rice export has yet to be revealed, it has been estimated that at least 11.2 million tonnes were sold overseas, making the annual Thai rice exports the highest ever recorded.  However, Pol Lt Charoen cautioned that the stronger Thai currency could potentially put Thailand at a disadvantage in the global rice market in the future.-VNA
https://en.vietnamplus.vn/thailands-rice-exports-reach-record-high-in-2017/124534.vnp
Poisonous and running out: Pakistan's water crisis
By AFP
PUBLISHED: 03:38 GMT, 8 January 2018 | UPDATED: 07:48 GMT, 8 January 2018

+4According to the UN and Pakistani authorities, between 30 and 40 percent of diseases and deaths nationwide are linked to poor water quality
Barely 15 days old, Kinza whimpers at an Islamabad hospital where she is suffering from diarrhoea and a blood infection, a tiny victim among thousands afflicted by Pakistan's severely polluted and decreasing water supplies.
Cloaked in a colourful blanket, Kinza moves in slow motion, like a small doll. Her mother, Sartaj, does not understand how her daughter became so ill."Each time I give her the bottle, I boil the water," she tells AFP.
But Sartaj and her family drink daily from a stream in their Islamabad neighbourhood -- one of several waterways running through the capital that are choked with filth. Boiling the water can only do so much.
 They are not alone. More than two-thirds of households drink bacterially contaminated water and, every year, 53,000 Pakistani children die of diarrhoea after drinking it, says UNICEF.
Cases of typhoid, cholera, dysentery and hepatitis are rampant. According to the UN and Pakistani authorities, between 30 and 40 percent of diseases and deaths nationwide are linked to poor water quality.
And it is costing the developing country billions. In 2012 the World Bank, which has warned that "substantial investments are needed to improve sanitation", estimated that water pollution costs Pakistan $5.7 billion, or nearly four percent of GDP.
"Water is the number one problem for the country," says professor Javed Akram, vice chancellor at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad.4

Rawal Lake reservoir serves Islamabad and Rawalpindi but official projections show the country, whose population has increased fivefold since 1960 to some 207 million, will be facing an 'absolute scarcity' of water by 2025
In Lahore, Pakistan's second largest city, the situation is even worse than in Islamabad.
The Ravi River which supplies the city's 11 million or so inhabitants with drinking water also serves as a spillway to hundreds of factories upstream.
River fish are eaten by locals, but "some papers show that in the fishbones, some heavy metal contamination (is) found," says Sohail Ali Naqvi, a project officer with the conservation group WWF.
The Ravi is also used to irrigate neighbouring crops, which are themselves rich in pesticides, warns Lahore environmentalist Ahmad Rafay Alam.
- 'Absolute scarcity' -
The lack of water infrastructure is glaring. In a country where the "environment is not part of the political agenda", there are "nearly no treatment plants", warns Imran Khalid, a researcher at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute.
+4

 More than two-thirds of households drink bacterially contaminated water and, every year, 53,000 Pakistani children die of diarrhoea after drinking it, says UNICEF
"Those who can afford it buy bottles of water, but what about those who cannot?" he says.
In Karachi, a megacity whose population could be as many as 20 million people, mafias fill the vacuum left by the creaking local network, selling the precious water they bring in by tanker trucks at high prices.
In the face of widespread indignation, Sindh along with Punjab province, together home to more than half of the country's population, have already announced measures to improve water quality, though their efficacy is yet to be seen.
But Pakistan's water is not only contaminated -- it is becoming scarce.

+4Northern Pakistan has Himalayan glaciers and high rainfall but so far much of the focus has been on irrigated areas in the south
Official projections show the country, whose population has increased fivefold since 1960 to some 207 million, will run dry by 2025, when they will be facing an "absolute scarcity" of water with less than 500 cubic metres available per person in Pakistan.
That's just one third the water available in already parched Somalia now, according to the UN.
- 'Lack of education' -
Pakistan, a country of massive Himalayan glaciers, monsoon rains and floods, has just three major water storage basins, compared with more than a thousand in South Africa or Canada, says Bashir Ahmad of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council.
As such any surplus is quickly lost, said Ahmad, who denounced "a lack of political vision" to counter the nationwide water crisis.
While official statistics show that 90 percent of the country's water is used for agriculture, the massive irrigation network, built decades ago by British colonists, has deteriorated.
Much of its use appears to defy common sense. "We are neglecting the northern areas, where there (is) a lot of rainfall, to focus on irrigated areas like Sindh or Punjab," says Ahmad.
There, in arid areas where temperatures can soar up to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), Pakistan grows water-intensive crops such as rice and sugar cane.
"The crisis is looming. In all urban areas, the water table is going down day by day," warns Muhammad Ashraf, chairman of the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources.
Pumps draw deeper and deeper into the water table, where the arsenic content is naturally higher, he warns. An international study in August said some 50 to 60 million Pakistanis are slowly poisoning themselves with arsenic-tainted water.
Yet waste remains the norm. In Islamabad, roads are sprinkled to drive away dust, cars are washed daily, and verdant lawns watered generously.
"We own our houses, but not our streams," Ashraf sighs. "That's why we dump our waste in the rivers."
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/afp/article-5245277/Poisonous-running-Pakistans-water-crisis.html
Arkansas Rice: Early Acreage Predictions for 2018
By Jarrod Hardke, University of Arkansas Extension Rice SpecialistJanuary 8, 2018
©Debra L Ferguson Stock Photography
How Much Rice in 2018?
It’s never too early for an acreage prediction, right?  Based on recent questions that’s the case.  So my middle of winter projection for Arkansas rice acres is 1.5 million total.
 

Of that 1.5 million total, we’re probably looking at around 1.25 million long grain acres and 250,000 medium grain acres.  Many things will change between now and planting time, particularly commodity prices.  We can only work with the knowledge we have at the moment though.
The major concern here of course is that this number of acres will depress prices for the next marketing year.  At the same time, soybean and corn prices are not currently that strong to pull acres back away from rice.  That could all change in the next two months though.
2018 Rice Farming for Profit
Here is the link to the 2018 Rice Farming for Profit publication.  It contains the most requested production recommendations for rice in a single, easily referenceable PDF.  This information will also be posted to the Extension rice page.  A limited number of printed copies will be available at county offices and winter production meetings.

Results of Arkansas Rice Cultivar Testing, 2015-2017
For those still making cultivar selection decisions, here is the link to Rice Information Sheet No. 177 Arkansas Rice Cultivar Testing, 2015-2017.  This contains the final results of the Arkansas Rice Performance Trials (ARPT), Producer Rice Evaluation Program (PREP) on-farm trials, and DD50 Planting Date studies.
Winter Production Meetings
Beginning next week county production meeting season kicks off.  Below are those meetings where rice will be covered.  For a complete list of meetings, visit here.
Jan. 9 – 9:30 a.m. HAZEN – Lonoke, Prairie, & Pulaski Co. Caviness Fish Barn.
Jan. 10 – 8 a.m. WEST MEMPHIS – Crittenden & Mississippi Co. First Methodist Church on Missouri Street.
Jan. 16-18 – 8 a.m. NORTH LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Crop Management Conference. Wyndham Hotel.
Jan. 19 – 8 a.m. WEINER – Poinsett & Craighead Co. Rice Festival Building.
Jan. 25 – 8 a.m. MORRILTON – River Valley Row Crop Conference. Conway County Fairgrounds.
Jan. 30 – 8 a.m. McCRORY – Woodruff & Cross Co. Three County Fairgrounds.
Jan. 30 – 3 p.m. DUMAS – Desha, Drew, & Lincoln Co. Dumas Community Center.
Jan. 31 – 8:30 a.m. MARIANNA – Phillips & Lee Co. Lon Mann Cotton Research Station.
Feb. 1 – 8 a.m. NEWPORT – Jackson Co. ASU-Newport.
Feb. 2 – 8 a.m. POCAHONTAS – Lawrence & Randolph Co. Black River Technical College.
Feb. 6 – 8 a.m. STANFORD – Green Co. Stanford Baptist Church.
Feb. 6 – 11:30 a.m. CORNING – Clay Co. M.B. Ainley Community Center.
Feb. 7 – 9 a.m. PORTLAND – Ashley & Chicot Co. Location TBA.
Feb. 8 – 8 a.m. STUTTGART – Arkansas Co. Rice Research & Extension Center.
Feb. 8 – 2 p.m. PINE BLUFF – Jefferson Co. Waterfront Building (Regional Park).
Feb. 9 – 10 a.m. LEWISVILLE – Southwest Arkansas production meeting. Lafayette County Agriplex.
Feb. 13 – 8 a.m. White County. Location TBA.
Feb. 16 – 8 a.m. PALESTINE – St. Francis & Monroe Co. C.R. Smalls.
Pesticide Application Spray Clinics
Feb. 27 – 8:30 a.m. McGEHEE. Men’s Center in McGehee.
Feb. 28 – 8:30 a.m. STUTTGART. Rice Research & Extension Center.
Mar. 1 – 8:30 a.m. BRINKLEY. Brinkley Community Center.
Mar. 6 – 8:30 a.m. NEWPORT. ASU-Newport.
Mar. 7 – 8:30 a.m. PARAGOULD. Greene County Fairgrounds.
Mar. 8 – 8:30 a.m. MANILA. Community meeting room Manila Airport.
http://agfax.com/2018/01/08/arkansas-rice-early-acreage-predictions-for-2018/

Rice Stewardship Grows Working Lands Conservation in Louisiana and Texas
By Andi Cooper
 WASHINGTON, DC -- Two new Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) proposals submitted by the Rice Stewardship Partnership have been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarding nearly $6 million for conservation of water and habitat in ricelands in Texas and Louisiana. 

"We are thrilled with the good news and excited about growing our working lands conservation portfolio in Louisiana and Texas," said Josh Hankins, USA Rice Stewardship Partnership Coordinator.  "These two states provide critically important habitat for waterfowl in the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi Alluvial Valley." 

The Cultivating Water Conservation on Working Lands project will restore cypress-tupelo brakes in seven parishes in Louisiana.  By restoring brakes on working agricultural lands to capture surface water and storm runoff, farmers can improve water quality and improve habitat for wildlife while reducing pumping costs and groundwater use.  This project will be supported with $450,000 in RCPP funding.

The Gulf Coast Water and Wildlife Conservation project will help rice producers in Louisiana and Texas conserve natural resources while having long-term positive impacts on their bottom line.  Project partners will assist NRCS and Texas River Authorities in Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts and address water quantity and habitat concerns in the Gulf Coast.  It will be supported with $5.43 million in RCPP funding. 

"These are funds that would be going to another part of the country had our Rice Stewardship Partnership not successfully advocated for them," said Hankins.  "If you grow rice in these parishes or counties, it is worth your time to learn more about these program offerings, because they are designed for your needs." 

Sign-up periods for participation in the two RCPP projects have not been announced. For more information, contact Josh Hankins or your local NRCS office.

Established in the 2014 Farm Bill, the RCPP competitively awards funds to conservation projects designed and delivered by innovative partnerships like the Rice Stewardship Partnership, a collaboration between USA Rice, Ducks Unlimited (DU), and other organizations, willing to invest money, labor, and materials on initiatives to expand voluntary, private lands conservation. 

"RCPP enables us to work side by side with rice producers, NRCS field offices, Soil & Water Conservation Districts, River Authoritie,s and supply-chain partners to accelerate conservation efforts and achieve measurable progress," said DU Director of Conservation Innovation Dr. Scott Manley.  "NRCS has demonstrated admirable vision and tangible results through this program, and we look forward to continued positive outcomes for valuable natural resources such as water, soil, and wildlife."
USA Rice Daily
Winter Grower Meetings 2018
Author: Whitney Brim-DeForest January 8, 2018
2018 Annual Rice Grower Meetings
Sponsored by UC Cooperative Extension
-------------- 5 Locations --------------

WHERE & WHEN
 Woodland:         Tuesday, Jan. 16, 1:30 pm, Cracchiolo's Market, 1320 E. Main St., Woodland

Richvale:              Wednesday, Jan. 17, 8:30 am, Evangelical Church, 5219 Church St., Richvale
Glenn:                  Wednesday, Jan. 17, 1:30 pm, Glenn County Office of Ed, 311 South Villa Avenue, Willows                                                           

Colusa:                Friday, Jan. 19, 8:30 am, Colusa Casino Resort, 3770 Hwy 45, Colusa
Yuba City:           Friday, Jan. 19, 1:30 pm, Veterans Hall, 1425 Veterans Memorial Circle, Yuba City
 
TIME:    Doors open at 8:00 am and meetings start at 8:30 am at Richvale and Colusa.
                Doors open at 1:00 pm and meetings start at 1:30 pm at Woodland, Glenn and Yuba City.
 Program
8:00 a.m.       (1:00 p.m.)          Doors open, sign-in, coffee
8:30 a.m.       (1:30 p.m.)          Call meeting to order
                                                  Rice Research Board Nominations – Dana Dickey, Rice Research Board
 8:35 a.m.       (1:35 p.m.)         Rice Pesticide and Regulatory Update – County Ag Commissioner
8:50 a.m.       (1:50 p.m.)          Rice Seed Quality Assurance Program Update –
                                                                Timothy Blank, CA Crop Improvement Association
 9:10 a.m.       (2:10 p.m.)          Variety Update - Kent McKenzie, RES
9:30 a.m.       (2:30 p.m.)          Season Review and Fertility Update – Bruce Linquist, UCCE
10:00 a.m.     (3:00 p.m.)          Weed Control Update – Kassim Al-Khatib, UCCE
10:30 a.m.     (3:30 p.m.)          Weedy Rice Update – Whitney Brim-DeForest, UCCE
10:50 a.m.     (3:50 p.m.)          Arthropod and Disease Update – Luis Espino, UCCE
11:10 a.m.     (4:10 p.m.)                — ADJOURN —
****Applied for DPR and CCA CE credits****
http://ucanr.edu/blogs/riceblog/

Do YOU avoid gluten? Scientist reveals there is 'no evidence' that the 'food fashion' is beneficial – unless you have coeliac disease
You may have heard that adopting a gluten-free diet could be good for you
But now a gastroenterologist has warned there is 'no evidence' it is beneficial
Dr Suzanne Mahady is also a senior lecturer at Monash University, Melbourne
She said only those diagnosed with coeliac disease should keep to the strict diet
By Stephen Matthews For Mailonline
PUBLISHED: 14:48 GMT, 8 January 2018 | UPDATED: 18:18 GMT, 8 January 2018
You may have heard that adopting a gluten-free diet could be good for your health.
But now a gastroenterologist has warned there is 'no evidence' that avoiding the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley is beneficial.
Dr Suzanne Mahady, a senior lecturer, Monash University, said only those diagnosed with coeliac disease should keep to the strict diet.
She even suggested in a piece for The Conversation that steering clear of gluten could have the opposite effect to the one that is desired.

+1A gastroenterologist has warned there is 'no evidence' that avoiding the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley is beneficial
However, it is believed that around 13 per cent of the UK population have started to avoid the protein by choosing such products instead.
And the figure is even higher in the US, with a quarter saying they had consumed such foods in 2015 - a 67 per cent increase in two years.
GLUTEN-FREE? FULL OF ARSENIC
Gluten-free diets have taken off rapidly in the past few years.
But research in February suggested those choosing to follow the trend are exposed to high levels of two toxic metals.
Those going gluten-free have double the amount of arsenic - a known cause of cancer - in their body, scientists at the University of Illinois found.
While traces of mercury - another deadly chemical - are almost 70 per cent greater, experts claimed.
Gluten-free versions of bread, spaghetti and cereals often contain rice flour as a substitute for wheat.
But rice is known to contain up to ten times more arsenic than other foods due to the way it was grown.
Generally, brown rice has higher levels because the arsenic is found in the outer coating or bran, which is removed in the milling process to produce white rice. 
Statistics show that just one per cent of the population are struck down with the agonising condition.
Dr Mahady continued: 'Gluten-free foods are frequently perceived as a healthier alternative, because of a alignment with a “wellness lifestyle”.
'Recent large studies have not found health benefits for a gluten-free diet, and in fact the opposite may be true.
'Of course, naturally gluten-free products such as plant-based foods, ancient grains and dairy are all part of a healthy and balanced diet.
'But there does not seem to be a health benefit for the processed and packaged gluten-free replacements over wheat-based versions.'
Not indulging in cakes, biscuits, crackers and beer is likely to be why some report positive effects from a gluten-free diet, she said.
She pointed to a 30-year long study which found gluten-free diets had no impact on boosting heart health.
And another 'large' study noted an association between type 2 diabetes in adults who eat less gluten.
Dr Mahady said: 'Whether the market will expand or diminish with time is unknown, but food fashions are not new.
'Consider the popularity of low-fat diets in the 1980s, when butter was a villain. Now butter is now back in vogue, with sales increasing.
'Similarly, red wine used to be considered protective for cardiac health, but guidelines for safe alcohol consumption now recommend reduced intake.
 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-5246821/No-evidence-gluten-free-diets-good-scientist-says.html#ixzz53g96Y6bf
NFAC approves importation of 250,000 MT of rice bufferstock
By  Jasper Y. Arcalas
January 8, 2018
Manila could import rice soon to replenish its depleting stockpile following the approval of the National Food Authority Council (NFAC) of a 250,000-metric ton (MT) volume of standby authority for National Food Authority (NFA) bufferstock.
NFA Spokesman Rebecca Olarte said the food agency’s current rice- bufferstock volume is at a “limited” level caused by  weather disturbances that hit some regions in the country last month.
“Right now, our bufferstock is slowly depleting. As early as November, the NFA has requested for authority for rice importation,” she told reporters in an interview on Monday.
“Now, the NFAC has given us a standby authority to import 250,000 metric tons of rice. But, as to when this will arrive and the implementation of it, it [would still have  to pass through]  the Food Security Committee,” she added.
Data obtained by the BusinessMirror showed that the NFA’s rice- stockpile level is only good for three days, way below than its Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council-mandated stock requirement of 15 days at any given time.
Olarte said the NFA has submitted two proposals to import rice to the NFAC, one for 350,000 MT and another for 250,000 MT. However, only the latter was approved by the NFAC last December 22.
The NFA official said the interagency National Food Security Committee (NFSC) is yet to convene to determine the volume of rice be recommended to the NFAC for the NFA to import.
Once the NFSC has made its recommendation, the NFAC then will decide on whether to approve the suggested volume. Furthermore, it would also approve the guidelines on how the NFA will conduct the rice importation.
The NFAC is the highest policy-making body of the NFA.
Olarte said they expect the approval of the rice importation within the month, with the shipments arriving within the first quarter or early second quarter.
“Based on the estimates of our marketing department, it would take two to three months after approval in order for the rice imports to arrive in the country,” she said.
“If this will be approved  within the month, then the imports may arrive by around April to May.”
Olarte said the expected rice imports will not affect the prices of palay as the volume would be solely used for bufferstocking to fill the needs of calamity victims.
Olarte added that the total national rice inventory is enough to fill the Filipino consumers’ rice requirement for 92 days.
“We have more than enough supply. So there is no need to worry, whether if we are going to lose supply or there would be price increases. The price and supply of rice at the moment are stable,” she said.
“And even if the imports would arrive during harvest season, they will not be released in the market. Thus, it will not affect the prices of palay and rice,” she added.
In July, the NFA spent some P5.638 billion to import 250,000 MT of rice to prop up its dwindling buffer stock during the lean months, when rice harvest goes down significantly.
The last rice importation made by the NFA was through a government-to-private scheme (G2P), as part of transparency reforms made by NFAC in the food agency.
The government’s purchase of rice through the G2P scheme is covered by Republic Act 9184, or the Government Procurement Reform Act, which provides that the lowest bidder would be named as supplier.
 https://businessmirror.com.ph/nfac-approves-importation-of-250000-mt-of-rice-bufferstock/



Vietnamese rice earns high export in 2017
 Date: 09-Jan-2018
Vietnam's rice export recorded a good year in 2017 as export volume reached 6 million tonnes, thanks to an increased demand on the world market.
According to experts, Vietnamese rice has expanded its export market towards high quality. However, in order to achieve the export target of 4.5-5 million tonnes per year during 2017-2020, there is still much work to be done. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), last year the country exported about 6 million tonnes of rice, valued at US$2.66 billion, up 22.4% in volume and 23.2% in value over the same period in 2016. MARD Deputy Minister Ha Cong Tuan affirmed that the result is a great success. In early 2017, experts  predicted that the year would be difficult for rice export due to a range of challenges from unresolved issues in the rice markets to the negative effects of climate change on rice production.  Therefore, the goal set by the rice sector in 2017 was to export only 5 million tonnes, but by the end of the year the figure increased to nearly 6 million tonnes. Secretary General of the Vietnam Food Association Huynh Minh Hue said that last year climate change negatively affected rice supply in export countries.
 Moreover, that Vietnamese rice tends to increase in both quantity and quality facilitates expansion of Vietnamese rice consumption markets with increased export value. In particular, from 2018, China, one of Vietnam's largest rice importers, reduces import taxes on glutinous rice. If Vietnam could take full advantage of this policy, Vietnamese rice exports would have even more opportunities. MARD also revealed that to expand the rice export market for Vietnamese enterprises, recently a delegation composed of representatives from various Vietnamese units organised trade promotion for Vietnamese rice in the Ivory Coast as this country is considered as a potential export market.
Together with that, MARD, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and Vietnam’s counselors and businesses in foreign countries, continues seeking export markets for Vietnam agricultural products in general and rice in particular. Dr Nguyen Do Anh Tuan, Head of the MARDs’ Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development, said that Vietnamese rice exporters still face many challenges, particularly those concerning the compliance with standards on technical barriers and food hygiene and safety from fastidious markets. 
In addition, the dependence on several key markets also affects the export of Vietnamese rice. The rice industry has been asked to reorganise production and begin focusing on improving quality. Under the 2017-2020 strategy for rice export market development, Vietnam aims to export from 4.5 to 5 million tonnes of rice per year, earning an average turnover of US$2.2-2.3 billion a year (with glutinous rice accounting for 20%).  During 2021-2030, the rice export volume will be reduced to about 4 million tonnes per year but the annual revenue is expected to increase to US$2.3-2.5 billion, focusing on high value rice (glutinous rice accounting for 25%). The strategy clearly states that by 2020, the Asian market accounts for 60% of Vietnam’s total rice export turnover, while the African market accounts for 22%, the American market 8%, and the European market 5%. 

The ambitious goal requires the rice sector to do a lot of work targeting to boost production in the direction of applying high technologies and raising productivity and quality, along with building rice export brand and promoting trade and product introduction activities.
http://english.vietnamnet.vn/fms/business/193509/vietnamese-rice-earns-high-export-in-2017.html
TPO Chief Scrutinizes Widening Trade Deficit

Tuesday, January 09, 2018
Iran’s non-oil trade deficit stood at $5.93 billion for the first nine months of the current fiscal year (started March 21, 2017), while last year’s similar period saw a trade surplus of $658 million.
Exports during this year’s nine-month period hit 88.57 million tons worth $31.64 billion, indicating a 2.39% decline year-on-year, the latest report by the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration announced.
Imports amounted to 26.59 million tons worth $37.57 billion, up 18.31% YOY.
“The decline in exports is due to the devaluation of Iran’s main exported commodities,” Chairman of Trade Promotion Organization of Iran Mojtaba Khosrotaj was quoted as saying by the Persian daily Donya-e-Eqtesad.
These commodities included gas condensates, industrial oils, bitumen, hydrocarbons, urea fertilizer, polyethylene, styrene, butadiene, ammonia, furfural, p-Xylene, diethylene glycol, paraffin wax, pistachio, flat steel, cement, tomato paste, apples, metal profiles, raisins, laundry detergent, plastic bags, livestock and agricultural products such as melon, grapes and onions.“Lack of financial support for exporters is another reason behind the decline in exports,” he said.The rise in imports also led to the trade deficit.Noting that a handful of imported commodities accounted for $3.5 billion of the rise in imports, the official noted that Market Regulation Headquarters has reduced import duties of a number of essential goods, namely rice, meat and butter, to prevent any price increase in the final months of last year.
The move led to an increase in the import of these items. For example, rice imports increased by around $500 million, sunflower oilseeds by $200 million, cattle feed barley by $180 million, corn by $100 million, raw sugar by $100 million, banana by $65 million and soybean by $55 million.
The $1.2 billion rise in the imports of auto parts—thanks to an increase in domestic car production—and car imports worth $180 million despite the shutdown of order registrations over the past five months can also explain the increase in  imports.
“Cellphones worth $280 million, flat steels worth $55 million and tires for light and heavy cars worth $170 million were also imported during the period to raise the overall value of imports this year,” Khosrotaj said.
Gas condensates ($5.09 billion), liquefied propane ($1.06 billion), methanol ($835 million), light crude oil, excluding gasoline ($810 million), and granulated hematite iron ore ($765 million) were Iran’s main exported commodities during the nine months.
Imports mainly included auto parts ($1.24 billion), field corn ($1.11 billion), rice ($1.01 billion), soybean ($749 million), vehicles of engine displacement between 1500 cc and 2000 cc, except for ambulance and hybrid cars ($660 million).
China was the main customer of Iranian products during the nine-month period as Iran exported $6.52 billion worth of goods to the Asian country, 12.78% more than the corresponding period of last year. 
Other major export destinations included Iraq with $4.62 billion, the UAE ($4.45 billion), South Korea ($3.01 billion) and Afghanistan ($2 billion). Exports to Iraq, South Korea and Afghanistan rose by 0.36%, 28.99% and 6.27% respectively compared to the last year, but the UAE imported 18.39% less goods from Iran in nine months compared with last year’s same period.
Major exporters to Iran included China ($9.45 billion), the UAE ($6.65 billion), Turkey ($2.57 billion), South Korea ($2.56 billion) and Germany ($2.95 billion).
The average price of each ton of exported goods stood at $357, posting a 5% rise over the same period of last year and the average price of each ton of imported commodities hovered around $1,413, up 12% compared with last year’s corresponding period. https://financialtribune.com/sites/default/files/field/image/17january/04-ff-trade_617-ab.jpg
Arkansas Rice to Hold 2018 Annual Meeting in Jonesboro, Governor Asa Hutchinson to Speak
February 19 meeting to highlight voluntary smoke management guidelines
Little Rock, Ark. - The Arkansas Rice Council and Arkansas Rice Farmers will hold their annual meeting and trade show Monday, February 19, at the Convocation Center in Jonesboro.
In addition to keynote speaker Governor Asa Hutchinson, the event will also highlight agricultural crop burning. A task force comprised of stakeholders representing the Arkansas Rice Federation, Arkansas Soybean Association, Ag Council of Arkansas and the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation is currently working to develop a set of guidelines applicable to crop burning. Along with input from the Arkansas Agriculture Department, Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, the group is considering farmer burn plans and the reporting of prescribed burns to the Arkansas Forestry Commission Dispatch Center as part of voluntary smoke management guidelines - a process already in place for forest landowners.
Arkansas Agriculture Department officials including Secretary Wes Ward, State Forrester Joe Fox, Communications Director Adriane Barnes, Assistant State Forester Don McBride and Fire Management Officer Fred Burnett will discuss a model already in place by the Arkansas Prescribed Fire Council's voluntary Smoke Management Guidelines for forest landowners, and private, state, and federal forestry agencies and companies. "This annual event is an important opportunity for rice farmers to gather and discuss timely issues and ways we can work together as an industry as we plan for the next growing season," said Jeff Rutledge, Chairman of the Arkansas Rice Federation. "Field burning is part of a complete crop management strategy and our growers want to ensure the continued quality of the airshed their families and neighbors breathe. The annual meeting will lead to an increase of awareness and education among the industry regarding voluntary smoke management guidelines."
 "Our industry has repeatedly shown a willingness to adopt voluntary guidelines or best management practices as opposed to being subject to additional government regulations.  Here our row crop industry is looking to the lessons that our forest landowners have learned in the past and we are all working together to find common sense solutions," Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward said previously regarding the task force. "This is a perfect example of how we can accomplish more together than apart."
The event will include an industry trade show and conclude with a free catfish lunch for registered attendees.Individual attendance is free. Sponsorship opportunities can be found here. If you are interested in attending or sponsoring this year's meeting, register online at www.arkansasrice.org/annualmeeting/ or call 501.375.1100 by February 6. The event is sponsored in part by Greenway Equipment.



Arkansas is the largest rice-growing state in the nation, producing nearly 9 billion pounds annually. This year, Arkansas family farmers will produce over 50 percent of the nation's rice for the first time in history. Arkansas rice farmers and millers contribute over $6 billion each year to the state's economy and employ over 25,000 Arkansans.
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1112062459441&ca=6b041a6d-2d6c-4915-8384-91a0c7f1e139
Experts: Haor regions need short-duration rice varieties to avoid crop damage in flash flood
Mahadi Al Hasnat
Published at 10:36 PM January 08, 2018
Last updated at 11:00 PM January 08, 2018
Speakers at a session of the inaugural day of the 4th Annual Gobeshona Conference for Research on Climate Change in Bangladesh (Gobeshona 4), at Independent University, Bangladesh on January 8, 2017.Mahmud Hossain Opu/Dhaka Tribune
'Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice.'
old-tolerant and short-duration rice varieties need to be developed for the farmers in Haor regions in the country so that they can harvest the crop before the onset of flash floods reducing the risk of losses, experts and researchers opined on Monday.
 A number of local and international agricultural researchers came up with the remarks at the fourth annual conference on climate change research in Bangladesh, titled “Gobeshona,” held at Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) in Dhaka.
They researchers said BRRI dhan28 and BRRI dhan 29, the two high yielding varieties (HYVs) that are cultivated in around 90% of the arable lands in the Haor regions, are not ideal for the Haor areas as they were susceptible to damage during the cold spells around February-March (low night temperatures) the risk of damage from flash floods on account of their long duration.
The researchers have proposed two different strategies — to develop short growth duration (120-135 days) cold-tolerant rice varieties maintaining the current crop calendar of the farmers, and to develop medium-duration (135-145 days) cold-tolerant varieties seeding at least 15 days earlier than the existing common practice.

 “In both cases, crop could be harvested before the onset of flash flood (within March) and due to cold-tolerant ability (at reproductive stage) no sterility-related problems will occur,” said Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, a scientist (Plant Breeder) at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
In recent years, the Haor areas have experienced major flash floods in the first week of April which had led to the complete inundation of matured rice just before the harvest.
“This flood has caused huge losses to the farmers and threatens the food security and livelihood of the people living in these areas in particular and in Bangladesh in general,” Dr Rafiqul’s study said.
The study titled “Improving livelihood by promoting rice-based technologies in Haor areas of Bangladesh” said last year in April 2017, flash flood resulted in more than 0.3 million hectares areas being inundated at maturity, flowering or dough stage of rice, causing paddy production loss of more than 1.5 million tons.
“Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice,” the study added.
Dr Humnath Bhandari, the interim IRRI representative for Bangladesh said the flash floods have been occurring before the usual time as a result of climate change in the country while premeasured efforts would help to reduce the risk for farmers in Haor regions.
The experts also stressed the need for mechanization in agricultural sector, especially in the Haor regions so that the farmers can harvest within a short time with the help of digital technologies and machinery support soon after the crops are mature.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/science/2018/01/08/haor-short-duration-crop-damage/ Public lending to rice sector on the rise
Chea Vannak / Khmer Times     
Rice farmers at work in the Cambodian countryside. KT/Chor Sokunthea
The Rural Development Bank (RBD) has disbursed more than 60 percent of the $50 million in loans in an emergency fund aimed at bolstering paddy prices, a sharp increase compared with last year, when only five percent of the money in the fund was dispensed.
More loans will be disbursed before the end of the month because harvest season is now beginning, said Kao Thach, the director-general of RBD.“Currently, 60 percent of total loans have been disbursed. Hopefully the total amount will be distributed soon,” he said, adding that most loans have gone to rice millers in Battambang province.
 In 2016, the government launched its first one-year emergency loan offer through the RDB to help the rice sector. The emergency fund for the year 2016-2017 consisted of $27 million, but for the period 2017-2018, it was increased to $50 million.
The government later announced that an extra $30 million in loans will be made available for building silos and warehouses, with the aim of stabilising the price of the commodity and protecting the livelihoods of farmers.
The loans, which had to be repaid at a five percent interest rate over a period of 10 years, were given to three different rice millers, who are building silos and warehouses in the provinces of Battambang, Kampong Thom, Prey Veng and Takeo.
While the silos are expected to come online this month, construction for the warehouses will begin in April or May, according to Mr Thach.
“Thanks to these emergency loans, we have dealt with serious issues in the sector and the price of paddy will be good this year,” Mr Thach said.
In 2017, five rice millers applied for $5 million worth of loans from the RDB with a seven percent interest rate. They had all paid the loans back by its maturity date in May.
http://www.khmertimeskh.com/50100754/public-lending-rice-sector-rise/
Digital signatures to speed up transition to online economy
Sok Chan / Khmer Times 
 
An office worker using a computer. Experts say the introduction of digital signatures will facilitate many online operations. Reuters
Digital signatures will soon be a standard element of doing business in the kingdom, with the government recently releasing a sub-decree on this handy online tool aimed at facilitating financial transactions and other operations commonly carried on the internet.
Sub-decree 246, consisting of nine chapters and 41 articles, seeks to manage the use of digital signatures in a secure and efficient way.
The General Department of ICT (GDICT) at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications will be the body in charge of managing, issuing and monitoring certificates for digital signatures in the kingdom, according to the sub-decree.
The body will create and curate a list of digital certificates in Cambodia containing key information about the holder of each signature.
“All electronic mail containing a certified digital signature will be as valid as a letter,” the sub-decree reads.
“All online financial transactions must use a digital signature to comply with the law.” Digital signatures issued by foreign institutions will have to get approval from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, unless there is an international agreement with the issuing country in place.
Kan Channmeta, a secretary of state at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, told Khmer Times that the digital signature scheme will make online transactions safer.
“The digital signature sub-decree is an important tool to increase security and build trust when conducting online operations,” he said. “It will encourage the expansion of the business sector and even help the government increase tax revenue.”
Mr Channmeta added that the ministry will hold a workshop this month to spread information about digital signatures, which will be aimed particularly at telecom operators, internet service providers, banks, online businesses and government agencies.
Song Saran, the president of Amru Rice, one of the largest rice millers and exporters in the country, said digital signatures can speed up the payment process in his sector.
He said that now transactions are often delayed because parties have to meet at a specific location to sign documents.
“I am very happy with this new online tool. I think it will improve how we do business in Cambodia, allowing us to do all the bureaucratic work faster,” Mr Saran said.
Anthony Galliano, the CEO of Cambodian Investment Management, said the new move is a very important development for the business sector and it is in line with the government’s ambition to implement e-commerce laws.
“The sub-decree takes the step of elevating the kingdom from the conventional business process model of physical signatures to legal acceptance of digital signatures, a key component of the digitalisation of workflows,” he said.
“The main benefits of digital signatures are speed by eliminating the need of the post and couriers; much less cost as documents are digitally sent; security as digital signatures reduce the risk of documents being intercepted, read, destroyed, or altered while in transit; and authenticity as digital signatures can stand up in court just as well as any other signed paper document.”
Mr Galliano added that digital signatures offer the highest and most verifiable standard for identifying an individual. Most countries recognise and accept digital signatures as legally binding documents, he said.
According to the sub-decree, all digital signatures in the kingdom must be approved by the Ministry of Posts. Using a digital signature without the approval of the ministry is against the law. Individuals can be fined in the range of $1,250-$3,750, while companies can be forced to pay up to $37,500.A digital signature certificate lasts for 10 years, renewable upon expiration.
http://www.khmertimeskh.com/50100756/digital-signatures-speed-transition-online-economy/

Wang and Hou win China’s top science and technology award
by Weida Li Jan 08, 2018 05:48 BEIJING INNOVATION YUAN LONGPING
Professor Wang Zeshan (left) and Hou Yunde received China's highest scientific award on Monday. China News Service
China to attempt more than 40 space launches in 2018, including Long March 5 and lunar far side missions
by Andrew Jones Jan 03, 2018 11:32 CHINABEIJING 
Scientists Wang Zeshan and Hou Yunde received the State Preeminent Science and Technology Award of 2017 from Chinese president Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Monday, reports Chinese news outlet China News.
Referred to as 'China's Nobel Prize', it is the highest scientific award established by the State Council of China and was first given out in 2000. The honour comes with a cash prize of 5m yuan (US$770,550), with 10 percent of this given to the scientist in the form of a bonus, while the remainder is put towards their research.
Notable past recipients are Chinese agricultural scientist and ‘father of hybrid rice’ Yuan Longping and Nobel winner Tu Youyou, a pharmaceutical chemist, who won the award in 2010 and 2016 respectively.
Professor Wang Zeshan, born in 1935, is an explosives expert and founder of the theory of propellant charges. He has successfully solved many key technical problems concerning the reuse of waste energetic materials. In addition, he has established a new principal of compensation for propellant combustion, and solved the problem of energetic material stability during long-term storage. Thus, one of the most difficult technical problems in the history of propellants has been overcome.
Virologist Hou Yunde was born in 1929. He has made outstanding achievements in the fields of molecular virology and genome project interferon, as well as contributing to the control and prevention of major infectious diseases. Furthermore, he has also developed genome project interferon and other cytokine-related commodities, including the first batch of high-tech products launched on the market in China - among which interferon α1b is unprecedented around the world.
https://gbtimes.com/wang-and-hou-win-chinas-top-science-and-technology-award
Venezuela took 35,000 tonnes of Guyana rice last year
 Jan 07, 2018 
By Malisa Playter Harry

A rice field on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two.
During last year, rice exports did well despite a major market to Venezuela was lost in 2015.A whopping 540,000 tonnes of rice was exported for 2017 from Guyana. The previous all time high was in the year 2015 with 535,000 tonnes.According to the Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Nizam Hassan, exports to the Caribbean were extremely lucrative with Jamaica standing as a major market importing nearly 48,000 tonnes of rice from Guyana. Trinidad and Tobago took 28,000 tonnes while St Vincent and other islands managed to bring the total to 89,000 tonnes from Guyana last year.
Hassan was in the Black Bush Polder, Corentyne area for a meeting with farmers and other stakeholders. He had accompanied Agri Minister, Noel Holder, to the area on an outreach.
Europe imported 186,000 tonnes with Portugal, Italy and the United Kingdom leading with the imports.
There was also an increase in exports recorded in South American and Latin American countries with Mexico in the forefront. The exports were backed up by Cuba, Brazil and Nicaragua. Over 40,000 tonnes were exported to Panama in 2017.
There were also exports to the United States.
The private millers have also been doing well with the Venezuela market with over 35,000 tonnes exported to that country.
The CEO revealed that there was an increase in production of rice last year and based on the data for sowing; 2018 is expected to have a huge crop.He stated that Guyana has a diverse base of rice and rice products that auger well for the country.
“We have seen increase in production and based on the data provided to me for sowing for this crop in 2018 we expect that it will be a very big crop if not the highest in terms of production and this is because of the responses from you and your colleague farmers have been putting towards the demands of the market.
“It is also because of all the services provided by all stakeholders (GRDB), the quality control efforts by GRDB as well as the private sector in terms of the Miller’s”.
The GRDB, through Nand Persaud and Company Limited, who are the producers of Karibe rice brand, had offloaded 7,500 tonnes of rice to be exported to Cuba in the last quarter of 2017. It was recorded as the first rice shipment to Cuba in 40 years.
https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2018/01/07/venezuela-took-35000-tonnes-of-guyana-rice-last-year/#
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices Open- January 9, 2018
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices – APMC/Open Market-January 9, 2018

Nagpur, Jan 9 (Reuters) – Gram prices recovered in Nagpur Agriculture Produce Marketing
Committee (APMC) on increased seasonal demand from local traders amid tight supply from
producing regions. Fresh rise in Madhya Pradesh gram prices and reported demand from South-based
millers also boosted sentiment here, according to sources. 

    FOODGRAINS & PULSES
   
   GRAM
   * Gram varieties ruled steady in open market here but demand was poor.
 
   TUAR
     
   * Tuar Karnataka reported higher in open market in increased seasonal demand from
     local traders.

   * Wheat Lokwan and Sharbati varieties firmed up in open market on good seasonal demand
     from local traders amid weak supply from producing regions.
                                                                 
   * In Akola, Tuar New – 4,100-4,200, Tuar dal (clean) – 6,000-6,200, Udid Mogar (clean)
    – 7,800-8,800, Moong Mogar (clean) 7,300-7,600, Gram – 4,300-4,400, Gram Super best
    – 6,400-7,000

   * Other varieties of wheat, rice and other foodgrain items moved in a narrow range in
     scattered deals and settled at last levels in weak trading activity.
     
 Nagpur foodgrains APMC auction/open-market prices in rupees for 100 kg
   
     FOODGRAINS                 Available prices     Previous close 
     Gram Auction                  3,200-3,700         3,200-3,600
     Gram Pink Auction            n.a.           2,100-2,600
     Tuar Auction                3,500-3,935         3,500-3,900
     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        1,600-1,694        1,600-1,706
     Gram Super Best Bold            6,800-7,500        6,800-7,500
     Gram Super Best            n.a.            n.a.
     Gram Medium Best            6,000-6,300        6,000-6,300
     Gram Dal Medium            n.a.            n.a
     Gram Mill Quality            4,000-4,100        4,000-4,100
     Desi gram Raw                4,600-4,750         4,600-4,700
     Gram Kabuli                12,400-13,000        12,400-13,000
     Tuar Fataka Best-New             6,200-6,500        6,200-6,500
     Tuar Fataka Medium-New        5,900-6,100        5,900-6,100
     Tuar Dal Best Phod-New        5,700-5,900        5,700-5,900
     Tuar Dal Medium phod-New        5,300-5,600        5,300-5,600
     Tuar Gavarani New             4,400-4,500        4,400-4,500
     Tuar Karnataka             4,650-4,850        4,600-4,800
     Masoor dal best            5,000-5,200        5,000-5,200
     Masoor dal medium            4,700-4,900        4,700-4,900
     Masoor                    n.a.            n.a.
     Moong Mogar bold (New)        7,500-8,000         7,500-8,000
     Moong Mogar Medium            6,500-7,000        6,500-7,000
     Moong dal Chilka            5,800-6,500        5,800-6,500
     Moong Mill quality            n.a.            n.a.
     Moong Chamki best            7,500-8,000        7,500-8,000
     Udid Mogar best (100 INR/KG) (New) 8,000-8,500       8,000-8,500
     Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG)    5,800-7,000        5,800-7,000   
     Udid Dal Black (100 INR/KG)        5,000-6,200        5,000-6,200   
     Batri dal (100 INR/KG)        5,000-5,500        5,000-5,500
     Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg)          2,500-2,600         2,500-2,600
     Watana Dal (100 INR/KG)            3,300-3,400        3,300-3,400
     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)    1,750-1,850        1,750-1,850 
     Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG)         2,150-2,350           2,150-2,350       
     Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG)    2,250-2,450        2,200-2,400   
     Wheat Lokwan medium (100 INR/KG)   2,000-2,200        1,950-2,150
     Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG)    n.a.            n.a.
     MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG)    3,200-3,800        3,200-3,700   
     MP Sharbati Medium (100 INR/KG)    2,400-2,800        2,300-2,800         
     Rice BPT best (100 INR/KG)        3,200-3,600        3,200-3,600   
     Rice BPT medium (100 INR/KG)        2,700-2,800        2,700-2,800   
     Rice Luchai (100 INR/KG)         2,300-2,500        2,300-2,500     
     Rice Swarna best (100 INR/KG)      2,500-2,600        2,500-2,600 
     Rice Swarna medium (100 INR/KG)      2,350-2,450        2,350-2,450 
     Rice HMT best (100 INR/KG)        4,100-4,500        4,100-4,500   
     Rice HMT medium (100 INR/KG)        3,500-3,900        3,500-3,900   
     Rice Shriram best(100 INR/KG)      5,000-5,400        5,000-5,400
     Rice Shriram med (100 INR/KG)    4,400-4,900        4,400-4,900 
     Rice Basmati best (100 INR/KG)    9,500-13,500        9,500-13,500   
     Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG)    5,000-7,500        5,000-7,500   
     Rice Chinnor best 100 INR/KG)    5,800-6,000        5,800-6,000   
     Rice Chinnor medium (100 INR/KG)    5,200-5,500        5,200-5,500 
     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. 28.0 degree Celsius, minimum temp. 9.6 degree Celsius
Rainfall : Nil
FORECAST: Mainly clear sky. Maximum and minimum temperature would be around and 28 and 10 degree
Celsius respectively.

Note: n.a.--not available
(For oils, transport costs are excluded from plant delivery prices, but included in market prices)
https://in.reuters.com/article/nagpur-foodgrain/nagpur-foodgrain-prices-open-january-9-2018-idINL4N1P42WV
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices Open- January 8, 2018
JANUARY 8, 2018 / 1:35 PM
Nagpur Foodgrain Prices – APMC/Open Market-January 8, 2018

Nagpur, Jan 8 (Reuters) – Gram prices moved down in Nagpur Agriculture Produce Marketing
Committee (APMC) on lack of demand from local millers amid high moisture content arrival. Easy
condition in Madhya Pradesh gram prices also affected sentiment in limited deals.
About 100 bags of gram reported for auctions in Nagpur APMC, according to sources. 

    FOODGRAINS & PULSES
   
   GRAM
   * Gram varieties reported down in open market here on lack of demand from local
     traders amid good supply from producing regions.
 
   TUAR
     
   * Tuar gavarani recovered strong in open market in increased seasonal demand from
     local traders.

   * Watana dal reported higher in open market on good seasonal demand from local traders.
                                                                 
   * In Akola, Tuar New – 4,100-4,200, Tuar dal (clean) – 6,000-6,200, Udid Mogar (clean)
    – 7,800-8,800, Moong Mogar (clean) 7,300-7,600, Gram – 4,300-4,400, Gram Super best
    – 6,400-7,000

   * 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                  3,200-3,500         3,200-3,600
     Gram Pink Auction            n.a.           2,100-2,600
     Tuar Auction                3,500-3,935         3,500-3,900
     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        1,600-1,694        1,600-1,706
     Gram Super Best Bold            6,800-7,500        7,000-7,500
     Gram Super Best            n.a.            n.a.
     Gram Medium Best            6,000-6,300        6,000-6,500
     Gram Dal Medium            n.a.            n.a
     Gram Mill Quality            4,000-4,100        4,100-4,200
     Desi gram Raw                4,600-4,750         4,650-4,750
     Gram Kabuli                12,400-13,000        12,400-13,000
     Tuar Fataka Best-New             6,200-6,500        6,200-6,500
     Tuar Fataka Medium-New        5,900-6,100        5,900-6,100
     Tuar Dal Best Phod-New        5,700-5,900        5,700-5,900
     Tuar Dal Medium phod-New        5,300-5,600        5,300-5,600
     Tuar Gavarani New             4,400-4,500        4,300-4,400
     Tuar Karnataka             4,600-4,800        4,600-4,800
     Masoor dal best            5,000-5,200        5,000-5,200
     Masoor dal medium            4,700-4,900        4,700-4,900
     Masoor                    n.a.            n.a.
     Moong Mogar bold (New)        7,500-8,000         7,500-8,000
     Moong Mogar Medium            6,500-7,000        6,500-7,000
     Moong dal Chilka            5,800-6,500        5,800-6,500
     Moong Mill quality            n.a.            n.a.
     Moong Chamki best            7,400-7,900        7,500-8,000
     Udid Mogar best (100 INR/KG) (New) 8,000-8,500       8,000-8,500
     Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG)    5,800-7,000        5,800-7,000   
     Udid Dal Black (100 INR/KG)        5,000-6,200        5,000-6,200   
     Batri dal (100 INR/KG)        5,100-5,500        5,000-5,500
     Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg)          2,500-2,600         2,500-2,600
     Watana Dal (100 INR/KG)            3,300-3,400        3,200-3,300
     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)    1,750-1,850        1,750-1,850 
     Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG)         2,150-2,350           2,150-2,350       
     Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG)    2,200-2,400        2,200-2,400   
     Wheat Lokwan medium (100 INR/KG)   1,950-2,150        1,950-2,150
     Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG)    n.a.            n.a.
     MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG)    3,200-3,700        3,200-3,700   
     MP Sharbati Medium (100 INR/KG)    2,400-2,800        2,400-2,800         
     Rice BPT best (100 INR/KG)        3,200-3,600        3,200-3,600   
     Rice BPT medium (100 INR/KG)        2,700-2,800        2,700-2,800   
     Rice Luchai (100 INR/KG)         2,300-2,500        2,300-2,500     
     Rice Swarna best (100 INR/KG)      2,500-2,600        2,500-2,600 
     Rice Swarna medium (100 INR/KG)      2,350-2,450        2,350-2,450 
     Rice HMT best (100 INR/KG)        4,100-4,500        4,100-4,500   
     Rice HMT medium (100 INR/KG)        3,500-3,900        3,500-3,900   
     Rice Shriram best(100 INR/KG)      5,000-5,400        5,000-5,400
     Rice Shriram med (100 INR/KG)    4,400-4,900        4,400-4,900 
     Rice Basmati best (100 INR/KG)    9,500-13,500        9,500-13,500   
     Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG)    5,000-7,500        5,000-7,500   
     Rice Chinnor best 100 INR/KG)    5,800-6,000        5,800-6,000   
     Rice Chinnor medium (100 INR/KG)    5,200-5,500        5,200-5,500 
     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. 28.0 degree Celsius, minimum temp. 10.7 degree Celsius
Rainfall : Nil
FORECAST: Mainly clear sky. Maximum and minimum temperature would be around and 28 and 11 degree
Celsius respectively.

Note: n.a.--not available
(For oils, transport costs are excluded from plant delivery prices, butincluded in market prices)
https://in.reuters.com/article/northkorea-southkorea-talks-delegation/north-korea-to-send-team-to-winter-games-south-to-consider-easing-bans-after-talks-idINKBN1EY0E5
Food stock rises
12:00 AM, January 07, 2018 / LAST MODIFIED: 07:23 PM, January 07, 2018
Cut in subsidised rice distribution, rise in import key reasons

Rejaul Karim Byron
The government's food stock saw a rise this year compared to the same period last year. This was mainly due to a significant reduction in food distribution to the ultra-poor and a rise in rice import.
According to data from the food ministry, food stock on January 2 this year increased by 1.17 lakh tonnes and stood at 8.33 lakh tonnes, of which rice stock was 5.3 lakh tonnes.
The figure was 7.16 lakh tonnes on the same day last year.
Two consecutive floods depleted the government's rice stock to historic low of just 1.5 lakh tonnes in the beginning of July last year.
Low production also led to an increase in rice prices in local markets and the government could not collect one fourth of its domestic procurement target of boro rice.
As a result, the government was compelled to cut public food distribution.
The data shows that 10.29 lakh tonnes of food--rice and wheat--was distributed among the poor between July 1 and December 2, 2016. But the government, under the public food distribution system (PFDS), could provide only 6.64 lakh tonnes in the corresponding period last year.
The fall in amount was mainly because of the government's failure to continue its Tk 10-a-kg rice distribution programme in the second half of 2017, even after rescheduling the date twice.
The government introduced the programme in 2016 to distribute Tk 10-a-kg rice for five months (March to April and September to November) a year among five million ultra-poor families.
Under the programme, the government distributed 3.88 lakh tonnes between September and November 2016.
Besides, distribution of rice through Open Market Sale (OMS) at subsidised rate also slightly decreased.
Food distribution from July 1 to December 21, 2017 through OMS was 16.17 lakh tonnes while the amount was 16.30 lakh tonnes in 2016.
Between July 1 and December 21, 2017, coarse rice's price was Tk 42 to Tk 50 while its price was below Tk 33 per kg in the same period in 2016.
Food stock also saw a rise due to the government's move of importing rice.
From July 1, 2017 to January 2 this year, the government imported 8.31 lakh tonnes of food grain including 5.35 lakh tonnes of rice.
In the corresponding period of the previous fiscal, the government did not import any rice. It only imported 3.92 lakh tonnes of wheat.
In the current fiscal year, the government's target is to import 20 lakh tonnes of food grains including 15 lakh tonnes of rice.
The cabinet committee on purchase has already given the approval to the food ministry for import of rice and the ministry has started the process.
http://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/food-stock-rises-1515961
39 areas in Philippines to remain competitive with 35% tariff on rice imports

STAFF WRITER | Monday January 8, 2018 5:05AM ET
At least 38 rice-producing provinces and a city will have competitive advantage over Thailand and Vietnam in rice production should the 35 percent tariff be levied on rice imports and the quantitative restrictions (QR) be lifted.

Results of the preliminary analysis conducted by the National Economic and Development Authority’s Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment Staff (ANRES) show that the rice production in at least 39 areas will remain competitive with a PhP4.00 per kilogram cost advantage over rice imports tariffed at 35 percent.

“Rice per kilogram in these areas will be P4 cheaper compared with Thai and Vietnamese rice. And these provinces can produce about 73 percent of the total food requirement of the country,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said.

 Among these 39 areas, however, 14 have an average yield of 3.5 metric tons per hectare (mt/ha), which is below the national average of 4 mt/ha.

Producing rice at lower costs, these provinces can still further increase their yield levels by using certified inbred and hybrid seeds, proper management of input application and sufficient irrigation.

The study of ANRES also shows that seven provinces which were not included in the 39 competitive ones have an average yield higher than the national level (4 mt/ha). These high-yielding provinces, however, are producing at relatively higher costs.

NEDA said that in order to be competitive, rice-producing provinces should reduce the cost of rice production by mechanizing labor-intensive farm activities, using new and appropriate technologies and applying farm management practices.

Apart from these, NEDA suggested measures to boost competitiveness, including constructing more irrigation systems, addressing gaps in infrastructure connectivity, improving farmers’ access to affordable credit insurance, and adopting measures to enhance agriculture’s resilience to climate change, among others.

The QR on rice imports is a special privilege granted by the World Trade Organization (WTO), which has been extended three times since it was first imposed in 1995.

Last April 2017, before the termination of the WTO Special Treatment on rice, President Duterte issued Executive Order No. 23 retaining the MAV level of 805,200 MT and extending the lower tariff rates imposed on some commodities for three years or until the Agricultural Tariffication Law is amended.

NEDA is pushing for the amendment of the Republic Act No. 8178 or the Agricultural Tariffication Act of 1996 to pave the way for the removal of the QR on rice imports and the imposition of the 35 percent tariff rate instead.

“The revenue from the 35 percent tariff can be used to supplement available government funds to develop the agriculture sector and bring it at par with our Asean counterparts,” Pernia said. http://www.poandpo.com/agrifish/39-areas-in-philippines-to-remain-competitive-with-35-tariff-on-rice-imports-812018599/
Thailand's rice exports reach record high in 2017
VNA MONDAY, JANUARY 08, 2018 - 17:30:00
Thai Rice Exporters Association President Charoen Laothammatas (Source: thainews)
Bangkok (NNT/VNA) - The Thai Rice Exporters Association revealed that rice exports reached a record high last year with most of the demand coming from Benin in West Africa.

Thai Rice Exporters Association President, Pol Lt Charoen Laothammatas, said the export of Thai rice grew 20 percent during the first 11 months of last year when a total of 10.4 million tons, worth 156 billion baht, were exported.

Rice exports in November last year expanded 47 percent compared with the same month in 2016. The highest demand for Thai rice came from Benin, China, South Africa, Cameroon and the United States.

 Although the official figure for December’s rice export has yet to be revealed, it has been estimated that at least 11.2 million tonnes were sold overseas, making the annual Thai rice exports the highest ever recorded. However, Pol Lt Charoen cautioned that the stronger Thai currency could potentially put Thailand at a disadvantage in the global rice market in the future.-VNA
https://en.vietnamplus.vn/thailands-rice-exports-reach-record-high-in-2017/124534.vnp
Wild Rice Products Market Food Processing And Demands 2018
January 9, 2018
Global Wild Rice Products Market Research Report 2018 presents an in-depth assessment of the Wild Rice Products including enabling technologies, key trends, market drivers, challenges, standardization, regulatory landscape, deployment models, operator case studies, opportunities, future roadmap, value chain, ecosystem player profiles and strategies. The report also presents forecasts for Wild Rice Products investments from 2018 till 2025.
The report provides a unique tool for evaluating the market, highlighting opportunities, and supporting strategic and tactical decision-making. This report recognizes that in this rapidly-evolving and competitive environment, up-to-date marketing information is essential to monitor performance and make critical decisions for growth and profitability. It provides information on trends and developments, and focuses on markets and materials, capacities and technologies, and on the changing structure of the Wild Rice Products Market.
Primary sources are mainly industry experts from core and related industries, and suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, service providers, and organizations related to all segments of the industry’s supply chain. The bottom-up approach was used to estimate the Global market size of Wild Rice Products Market based on end-use industry and region, in terms of value. With the validation of data through primary interviews, the exact values of the overall parent market, and individual market sizes were determined and confirmed in this study.
Global Wild Rice Products Sales (K Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market by Top Manufacturers (2017-2025)
Moose Lake Wild Rice
SunWest Foods
Amira Nature Foods
Lundberg
Nature’s Gourmet Foods
InHarvest, Inc
Lake of the Woods Wild Rice CO
Gibbs Wild Rice CO
Erickson Processing Inc
Coilws Com
Agassiz Wild Rice LLC
Key Highlights of the Wild Rice Products Market:
A Clear understanding of the Wild Rice Products market based on growth, constraints, opportunities, feasibility study.
Concise Wild Rice Products Market study based on major geographical regions.
Analysis of evolving market segments as well as a complete study of existing Wild Rice Products market segments.
Inquire for sample copy at:  https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/0109143228/global-wild-rice-products-market-research-report-2018/inquiry
In the Wild Rice Products Market research reports, following points are included along with in-depth study of each point:
Production Analysis – Production of the Wild Rice Products is analysed with respect to different regions, types and applications. Here, price analysis of various Wild Rice Products Market key players is also covered.
Sales and Revenue Analysis – Both, sales and revenue are studied for the different regions of the Wild Rice Products Market. Another major aspect, price, which plays important part in the revenue generation, is also assessed in this section for the various regions.
Supply and Consumption – In continuation with sales, this section studies supply and consumption for the Wild Rice Products Market. This part also sheds light on the gap between supply and consumption. Import and export figures are also given in this part.
Competitors – In this section, various Wild Rice Products industry leading players are studied with respect to their company profile, product portfolio, capacity, price, cost and revenue.
Other analyses – Apart from the aforementioned information, trade and distribution analysis for the Wild Rice Products Market, contact information of major manufacturers, suppliers and key consumers is also given.
Global Wild Rice Products Sales (K Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type Global Wild Rice Products Sales (K Units) by Application (2017-2025)
Ready-to-eat Wild Rice Food & Beverages
Grains Pharmaceuticals
  Pet Food

Browse full report at:  https://www.marketinsightsreports.com/reports/0109143228/global-wild-rice-products-market-research-report-2018
This independent 118 pages report guarantees you will remain better informed than your competition. With over 170 tables and figures examining the Wild Rice Products market, the report gives you a visual, one-stop breakdown of the leading products, submarkets and market leader’s market revenue forecasts as well as analysis to 2025.
Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with Sales, Sales, revenue, Market Share (%) and Growth Rate (%) of Wild Rice Products in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), covering United States, EU, China, Japan, South Korea, India.
The objectives of this study are:
To define, describe, and analyze the Wild Rice Products market on the basis of product type, application, and region
To forecast and analyze the Wild Rice Products market at country-level in each region
To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trends and its contribution to the Wild Rice Products market
To analyze opportunities in the Wild Rice Products market for stakeholders by identifying high-growth segments of the market
To identify significant market trends and factors driving or inhibiting the growth of the Wild Rice Products market and its submarkets
To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, joint ventures, new products launches, and acquisitions in the Wild Rice Products market
To strategically profile key players in the Wild Rice Products market and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies
Research Design
Historical Data
(2013-2017) Industry Trends Global Revenue ;
Status and Outlook;
Competitive Landscape
ž   By Manufacturers;
ž   Expansion;
ž   Mergers and Acquisitions Product Revenue for Top Players
ž   Market Share
ž   Growth Rate
ž   Present Situation Analysis;
Market Segment
ž   By Types
ž   By Applications
ž   By Regions/ Geography Sales Revenue
ž   Market Share;
ž   Growth Rate
ž   Present Situation Analysis
Influencing
Factors Market Environment
ž   Government Policy
ž   Technological Changes Market Drivers
ž   Growing Demand of Downstream
ž   Reduction in Cost
Market Risks Market Opportunities and Challenges
Market Forecast
(2018-2025) Market Size Forecast
ž   Global Overall Size
ž   By Type/Product Category
ž   By Applications/End Users
ž   By Regions/Geography Key Data (Revenue)
ž   Market Size;
ž   Market Share;
ž   Growth Rate ;
ž   Growth;
ž   Product Sales Price
 The report provides a basic overview of the Wild Rice Products industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. And development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures.
Then, the report focuses on global major leading industry players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information. What’s more, the Wild Rice Products industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed.

The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to a SWOT analysis of the key vendors.

There are 15 chapters to deeply display the global Wild Rice Products market.

Chapter 1, to describe Wild Rice Products Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;
Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Wild Rice Products, with sales, revenue, and price of Wild Rice Products, in 2017 and 2018;
Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2017 and 2018;
Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Wild Rice Products, for each region, from 2013 to 2018;
Chapter 5, 6, 7,8and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;
Chapter 10and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2013 to 2018;
Chapter 12, Wild Rice Products market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2018 to 2025;
Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Wild Rice Products sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.

http://newzy.net/wild-rice-products-market/

Rice R&D News Experts: Haor regions need short-duration rice varieties to avoid crop damage in flash flood

Experts: Haor regions need short-duration rice varieties to avoid crop damage in flash flood

  • Published at 10:36 PM January 08, 2018
  • Last updated at 11:00 PM January 08, 2018
Experts: Haor regions need short-duration rice varieties to avoid crop damage in flash flood
Speakers at a session of the inaugural day of the 4th Annual Gobeshona Conference for Research on Climate Change in Bangladesh (Gobeshona 4), at Independent University, Bangladesh on January 8, 2017.Mahmud Hossain Opu/Dhaka Tribune

'Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice.'

Cold-tolerant and short-duration rice varieties need to be developed for the farmers in Haor regions in the country so that they can harvest the crop before the onset of flash floods reducing the risk of losses, experts and researchers opined on Monday.
A number of local and international agricultural researchers came up with the remarks at the fourth annual conference on climate change research in Bangladesh, titled “Gobeshona,” held at Independent University Bangladesh (IUB) in Dhaka.
They researchers said BRRI dhan28 and BRRI dhan 29, the two high yielding varieties (HYVs) that are cultivated in around 90% of the arable lands in the Haor regions, are not ideal for the Haor areas as they were susceptible to damage during the cold spells around February-March (low night temperatures) the risk of damage from flash floods on account of their long duration.
The researchers have proposed two different strategies — to develop short growth duration (120-135 days) cold-tolerant rice varieties maintaining the current crop calendar of the farmers, and to develop medium-duration (135-145 days) cold-tolerant varieties seeding at least 15 days earlier than the existing common practice.


“In both cases, crop could be harvested before the onset of flash flood (within March) and due to cold-tolerant ability (at reproductive stage) no sterility-related problems will occur,” said Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, a scientist (Plant Breeder) at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
In recent years, the Haor areas have experienced major flash floods in the first week of April which had led to the complete inundation of matured rice just before the harvest.
“This flood has caused huge losses to the farmers and threatens the food security and livelihood of the people living in these areas in particular and in Bangladesh in general,” Dr Rafiqul’s study said.
The study titled “Improving livelihood by promoting rice-based technologies in Haor areas of Bangladesh” said last year in April 2017, flash flood resulted in more than 0.3 million hectares areas being inundated at maturity, flowering or dough stage of rice, causing paddy production loss of more than 1.5 million tons.
“Around 14% of the total paddy production in Bangladesh is produced in Haor and if the rice supply is ensured and yield in this area is increased, this would mitigate the impacts of climate change not just to food producers but also to consumers through price stability of rice,” the study added.
Dr Humnath Bhandari, the interim IRRI representative for Bangladesh said the flash floods have been occurring before the usual time as a result of climate change in the country while premeasured efforts would help to reduce the risk for farmers in Haor regions.
The experts also stressed the need for mechanization in agricultural sector, especially in the Haor regions so that the farmers can harvest within a short time with the help of digital technologies and machinery support soon after the crops are mature.https://www.dhakatribune.com/science/2018/01/08/haor-short-duration-crop-damage/

Arkansas Rice Updates Jan2018

http://www.arkansas-crops.com


05
JAN
2018
Arkansas Rice Update 1-5-18
Author: Jarrod Hardke, Rice Extension Agronomist


04
JAN
2018
Register now for the Jan. 11 webinar: The Evolution of Hybrid Rice
Author: Bob Stark, Agricultural Economist
By Bobby Coats, Professor of Economics and Agricultural Economist
The Evolution of Hybrid Rice
Date and Time:  Jan 11, 2018 7:00 PM in Central Time (US and Canada)
In this presentation we will chart the evolution of hybrid rice development starting with the fundamental need for more calories in China during the 1970s. We will explain the 20 year journey of the germplasm development to the meet the needs of western hemisphere markets. The program will provide an update on the global adoption of hybrid rice in production systems. We will give an update on the effort and progress on improving grain quality in conjunction with high yields and the grower’s role in driving quality. Finally we will provide a view on how hybrid breeding can tailor grain quality to meet the needs of specific markets and how that will improve overall competitiveness for US exports.
Presenter: Michael A. Gumina, Global CEO RiceTec AG, Alvin, Texas 77511
Mr. Gumina has been engaged with production agriculture and the seed industry for over 35 years. He is currently the lead executive for RiceTec AG which is a privately held, leading global hybrid rice seed business.
Prior to joining RiceTec, Mr. Gumina was an executive with DuPont Pioneer where he was responsible for global seed production operations and a member of several key global and regional management teams.
Mr. Gumina has played an active role in the broad seed industry as a member of the American Seed Trade Association Board of Directors (Chairman 2011/2012) and the International Seed Federation Board of Directors.
Mr. Gumina has been a member of numerous non-profit boards and advisory panels including the Iowa State Seed Science Center, Iowa 4H Foundation, ChildServe and most recently the First the Seed Foundation.
Mr. Gumina is a graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Agronomy.
Register here:  https://uaex.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4qGXNmcqTOW20pj7nSDbag

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http://www.arkansas-crops.com/2018/01/05/arkansas-rice-update-1-18/


06
DEC
2017
2017 AR Rice Cultivar Testing Results
Author: Jarrod Hardke, Rice Extension Agronomist
The link to Rice Information Sheet No. 177 Arkansas Rice Cultivar Testing, 2015-2017 is provided below.  This contains the final results of the Arkansas Rice Performance Trials (ARPT), Producer Rice Evaluation Program (PREP) on-farm trials, and DD50 Planting Date studies.

2017 AR Rice Cultivar Testing Results

This information will also be posted to the Arkansas Variety Testing website (http://arkansasvarietytesting.com/home/rice), and the Extension rice page (http://www.uaex.edu/rice).
Let us know if we can help.http://www.arkansas-crops.com/2017/12/06/rice-cultivar-testing-results/

06
DEC
2017
Webinar recording: Arkansas’ rice breeding program with Dr. Karen Moldenhauer
Author: Bobby Coats, Professor of Economics
Video: Dr. Karen Moldenhauer discusses the University of Arkansas System – Division of Agriculture’s Rice Breeding Program
Video Title: University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Rice Breeding Program
Date and Time Video Recorded: November 30, 2017, 10:00 a.m. Central Standard Time (CST)
Description: Arkansas’ Senior Rice Plant Breeder Dr. Karen Moldenhauer discussed her Rice Plant Breeding Program as well as the University of Arkansas System, Division of Agriculture’s Rice Breeding Program.
Video Link: https://youtu.be/zGmQmRbAJ0c
The rice breeding program in Arkansas has similar objectives to those of other U.S. crops. These include increasing production through higher yielding cultivars, conferring resistance to/tolerance of biotic and abiotic stresses via genetic resources, and improving seed quality characteristics. Cultivar development is a team approach that involves breeders, geneticists, pathologists, entomologists, agronomists, economists, soil scientists, food scientists, weed scientists, physiologist statisticians, and extension specialists with inputs from producers, consumers, and the rice industry.
Plant breeding, broadly defined, is the art and science of improving the genetic pattern of plants in relation to their economic use (D.C. Smith, 1966).  As in so many areas of science today, there is an art to the techniques and the interpretation of data. Data comes from visual selection, agronomic measurements, and molecular information.
Plant breeders are always looking to the future because it takes at least 8 to 10 years to develop a new cultivar and get it to producers. In the words of Henry Beachell (2001), “We need to anticipate future needs and strive for goals not easily pictured by others—farsightedness and tolerance of uncertainty are useful attributes; long-term commitment and patience are required.” In the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture rice breeding program, hybrid rice is one of our future goals. We also consider improving disease resistance, earliness, and quality characteristics as intermediate goals.  Since majority of U.S. rice cultivars belong to the tropical japonica subspecies, our long-term goal is to increase the genetic diversity of these cultivars through the introduction of new germplasm from all available sources, including indica subspecies and other species, to develop a new generation of high-yielding cultivars that show resistance to/tolerance of biotic and abiotic stresses.
Historical biographical information
Karen A.K. Moldenhauer is a rice breeder for the University of Arkansas, located at the Rice Research and Extension Center, Stuttgart, Arkansas.  She was born Karen Ann Kuenzel  in Dubuque, IA, December 28, 1952 and grew up in the town of Garnavillo, IA.  She received her B.S. degree in biology from Iowa State University in 1975 and continued her education at North Carolina State University where she received an M.S. in plant breeding and cytogenetics in 1977, under the direction of Earl Wernsman.  She returned to Iowa State University and received her Ph.D. in plant breeding in 1982 under the guidance of Kenneth J. Frey. In 1985 she married Dr. Paul M. Moldenhauer and they have two children Jonathan and Henry.
After receiving her Ph.D. in 1982, Dr. Moldenhauer accepted a research position as a rice breeder with the University of Arkansas as an Assistant Professor in Agronomy.  This position was located in Stuttgart, Arkansas at the Rice Research and Extension Center.  She was promoted to Associate Professor in 1987, and Professor in 1992.  Dr. Moldenhauer’s work has focused on the development of improved cultivars for the rice producers.  During her tenure as project leader for the rice breeding and cultivar development program at the University of Arkansas, 29 rice cultivars have been released to producers.  These varieties have had a substantial impact on rice production in Arkansas, averaging 25% to 60% of the rice acreage in any given year.   With the release of these new cultivars the state average rice yields have increased from about 95 bushels/acre in 1982 to 168 bushel/acre in 2013 and 2014 with an average yield of 164 bushel/acre this year.  These cultivars have increased disease resistance, increased lodging resistance, and earlier maturities than those they have replaced.  Her selections Drew, Kaybonnet, and Katy, were the first commercially available cultivars with resistance to all of the commonly found rice blast races in the southern growing region.  They have been utilized by the rice breeding groups in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas as sources of resistance to both races IB-49 and IC-17.
Dr. Moldenhauer also initiated (1989) and established (1991) a rice biotechnology program which utilized anther culture and a marker assisted selection (2001) at the Rice Research and Extension Center as a complement to the existing rice breeding program.  She has also been involved in many interdisciplinary cooperative research efforts  including joint research planning, management and field evaluation for rice studies involving soil fertility (DD50 program, and nitrogen interaction studies); plant pathology (recurrent selection for sheath blight tolerance, rice blast inheritance studies, sheath blight, blast and kernel smut nurseries); and food science (rice kernel characteristics and food quality traits).
Dr. Moldenhauer has 13 utility patents and 12 PVP certificates granted.  She has published 10 book chapters, 86 referred publications, 251 reviewed publications, and 132 Abstracts.  She is a Fellow of the Crop Science Society of America, the American Society of Agronomy and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Dr. Moldenhauer has served on numerous committees for the University of Arkansas System and professional organizations over the years as well as on the Plant Breeding Coordinating Committee and National Genetics Resources Advisory Council.  She was appointed to the International Rice Research Institute Board of Trustees where she is currently serving a 3 year term to expire at the end of 2018.

http://www.arkansas-crops.com/2017/12/06/recording-breeding-moldenhauer/


http://www.arkansas-crops.com/2017/12/06/recording-breeding-moldenhauer/
4
JAN
2018
Register now for the Jan. 11 webinar: The Evolution of Hybrid Rice
Author: Bob Stark, Agricultural Economist
By Bobby Coats, Professor of Economics and Agricultural Economist Topic:  The Evolution of Hybrid Rice Date and Time:  Jan 11, 2018 7:00 PM in Central Time (US and Canada) Description:  In this presentation we will chart the evolution of hybrid rice development starting with the fundamental need for more calories in China during the 1970s. We […]
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Monday, January 08, 2018

Rice R&D News -CIC wins national award for innovative agriculture research work


CIC wins national award for innovative agriculture research work

2018-01-08 10:33:48
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CIC Holdings PLC was adjudged the winner of the most innovative research in non-plantation agriculture sector by the Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP) at a ceremony held at Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Colombo recently. 

The awarding ceremony followed a competition organized by the SLCARP in a bid to recognize exceptional contributions made by individuals and organizations in public and private sectors in the field of agriculture research. 

NGOs, private sector organizations, scientists, research institutions, departments and universities participated in the competition which awarded high flyers under three distinct categories namely plantation agriculture and forestry, non-plantation agriculture as well as livestock and fisheries. The SLCARP the apex body that spearheads agriculture research in Sri Lanka conducted this competition after calling application for research project conducted in Sri Lanka within last three years. CIC emerged the winner of the non-plantation agriculture category winning a cash prize of Rs. 200,000. 


Operating a versatile and highly diversified Agri business in the country CIC Agri Businesses has ventured into agriculture research and development (R&D) since 2006 and has developed superior quality rice to the local and export markets. CIC won the first prize in recognition of its three premier rice varieties developed and marketed namely fragrant red basmati, CIC white basmati and CIC purple mix.  These rice varieties are not only pleasantly aromatic, but also contain low Glycemic Index that makes them ideal for health conscious individuals, especially those suffering from diabetes or those concerned over controlling sugar levels in their diet.  Rice R&D work of CIC Agri business is supervised by Dr. Sumith Abeysiriwardena, Research consultant of the company. CIC Agri business has now expanded its R&D activities for vegetable sector as well and expect to release to the market a couple of high yielding vegetable hybrids in the near future
http://www.dailymirror.lk/article/CIC-wins-national-award-for-innovative-agriculture-research-work-143536.html