5th February(Thursday),2015 Daily Exclusive ORYZA Rice E_Newsletter by Riceplus Magazine

Brazil Paddy Rice Index Declines Slightly from Last Week

Feb 04, 2015

The Brazilian paddy rice index maintained by the CEPEA reached around 38.24 real per 50 kilograms as of February 03, 2015, down about 0.34% from around 38.37 real per 50 kilograms recorded on January 27, 2015.In terms of USD per ton, the index reached around $282.7 per ton on February 03, 2015, down about 5% from around $297.4 per ton recorded on January 27, 2015.

FAO Global Rice Price Index Declines 1% m/m to 222 Points in January 2015

Feb 04, 2015

The FAO All Rice Price Index declined to around 222 points in January 2015, down about 1% from around 224 points in December 2014 due to decline in the Higher and Lower Quality Indica as well as Japonica sub-indices.The Japonica sub-index registered the highest decline of about 1.4% or 4 points to around 279 points this month from around 283 points last month. Higher Quality Indica sub-index declined by about 1 point, or about 0.5% to around 194 points in January 2015, from around 195 points last month. Lower Quality Indica sub-index declined by about 2 points, or about 1% to around 189 points this month from around 191 points last month.However, the Aromatic sub-index increased about 1% to around 189 points in January 2015 from around 187 points last month. 

In January 2014 - January 2015, the FAO All Rice Price Index averaged 222 points, down about 2% from around 227 points during the same period last year. Sub-index for higher quality Indica rice prices declined about 8.6% y/y and sub-index for lower quality Indica rice prices declined about 4.5% y/y. Aromatic rice price sub-index declined about 28% y/y. However, sub-index for Japonica rice prices increased about 18.4% y/y. 

According to the FAO, rice export prices in the Asian origins such as Vietnam, India and Pakistan declined significantly in January 2015 due to increased supplies from new harvest and subdued export demand. However, Thai rice export prices remained relatively stable or increased during the month, says the FAO. Export prices of U.S. origin as well as other American origns also declined due to increasing supplies from new harvests.

During January 2015, average rice export prices of Thai 100% broken rice increased to around $429 per ton;  Prices of Thai 5% broken rice, Thai parboiled rice, Thai 25% broken rice and Thai fragrant rice also increased to around $420 per ton, $424 per ton, $400 per ton and $1,078 per ton respectively. However, prices of Thai A1 Super declined slightly to around $330 per ton.    

Export prices of Vietnam and India 25% broken rice declined about 1.6% m/m and 0.2% m/m to around $349 per ton each respectively. Rice export prices in of Pakistan 25% broken rice declined by about 1.5 m/m to around $326 per ton; and export prices of the U.S. and Uruguay rice declined about 2% and 0.8% to around $508 per ton and around $595 per ton respectively.

Oryza Overnight Recap - Chicago Rough Rice Futures Slip Lower as Market Unable to Find Follow-through Buying as Grains and Crude Turn Negative

Feb 04, 2015

Chicago rough rice futures for Mar delivery are currently listed 8.5 cents per cwt (about $2 per ton) lower at $10.300 per cwt (about $227 per ton) during early floor trading in Chicago. The other grains are all seen lower as well: soybeans are currently seen about 1.2% lower, wheat is listed about 0.8% lower and corn is currently noted about 1.2% lower.U.S. stocks opened lower on Wednesday as oil reversed its recent rally and markets digested mixed overseas news from China and Greece.

China's central bank increased its economic stimulus measures even further Wednesday by cutting the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) amid growing concerns about the rate of expansion in the world's second-largest economy. The 50 basis points reduction to 19.5 percent, effective Thursday, is the first such cut since May 2012. This will lower the amount of deposits that each lender is required to hold as reserves. The Greek debt situation remained unclear as finance minister Yanis Varoufakis met with European Central Bank President Mario Draghi. The ADP Employment report, which is seen as a precursor to Friday's important jobs report, showed January payrolls increased by 213,000, below estimates of 225,000.

Total mortgage application volume increased 1.3% on a seasonally adjusted basis last week from one week earlier, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Data out later in the morning include the PMI Services Index at 9:45 a.m. and the ISM Non-manufacturing Index at 10:00 a.m., which will also give indications on the state of health of the U.S. economy. Oil inventories data is published at 10:30 a.m. and the Cleveland Federal Reserve's President Loretta Mester speaks at 12:45p.m. The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened down 63 points, or 0.34%, at 17,603.21. The S&P 500 opened down 7.43 points, or 0.36%, at 2,042.76, with health care the greatest laggard and consumer staples leading gains across three sectors. The Nasdaq opened down 23.2 points, or 0.48%, at 4,704.31. Gold is currently trading about 0.5% higher, crude oil is seen trading about 4.8% lower,  and the U.S. dollar is currently trading about 0.4% lower at 8:30am Chicago time.

IRRI's Regional Seed Cooperation Agreement Speeds Up Release of Rice Varieties in South Asia

Feb 04, 2015

The regional rice seed cooperation agreement between India, Bangladesh and Nepal, launched by the Philippines-based International Institute of Rice Research (IRRI) is speeding up the release of rice varieties in these countries, according to a news release on its website.The regional rice seed cooperation agreement, promoted through the Stress-Tolerant Rice for Africa and South Asia (STRASA), began with an intention to benefit farmers in region by reducing time lags in releasing newer rice varieties. Since the agro-climatic conditions of the three countries are similar, rice seeds developed, tested, approved and released in one country can be released simultaneously in the other countries as well.

This process facilitates quicker release of rice varieties as rice seed development usually takes longer time, according to the news release. For instance varieties developed through market-assisted breeding takes two years while varieties developed through conventional breeding takes about seven years. The agreement saves a lot of time and resources in releasing a new variety in a country.As part of this agreement several varieties such as BR11, BRRI dhan 28, and BRRI dhan 29, modern high-yielding rice varieties developed and released in Bangladesh are widely grown in India. Bangladesh's other varieites such as BINA dhan 8, BINA dhan 10, BINA dhan 11, and  BINA dhan 12 are becoming popular in East Indian states. Similarly, India's rice varieties such as Swarna, Sarju 52, and Samba Mahsuri are released in Nepal and Bangladesh. Nepal’s Sukha dhan5 and Sukha dhan6, and drought-tolerant varieties are being considered for release in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.The progress of the regional rice seed cooperation agreement were presented at the IRRI-Global Rice Science Partnership (GRiSP) Asia Science Week, held from 26 to 30 January in the Philippines.

Indian State Maharashtra Approves Field Trials of GM Rice

Feb 04, 2015

India's western state Maharashtra has approved field trials of five genetically modified (GM) crops, including rice, maize, chickpea, brinjal and cotton, according to local sources.The state government has issued "no objection certificate (NOC)" for companies carrying out field trials of these five GM crops. Along with BT rice, the government has also approved field trials of two other rice varieties that are drought tolerant and has nitrogen use efficiency.

Companies carrying out field trials of GM crops are mandated to get a NOC from respective state governments, according to a Central Government Directive. Other states such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Andhra Pradesh have reportedly given NOCs for field trials of some biotech crops, but states like Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are against the field trials of GM crops.

 Oryza Afternoon Recap - Chicago Rough Rice Futures Close at Fresh Low as Crude Gives back Yesterday's Gains as Inventories Continue to Rise

Feb 04, 2015

Chicago rough rice futures for Mar delivery settled 13.5 cents per cwt (about $3 per ton) lower at $10.250 per cwt (about $226 per ton). Rough rice futures continued on their downward trajectory, closing at a fresh contract low after failing at an early attempt to add to gains earned yesterday. The market remains firmly entrenched in a bearish trend with traders expecting another testing of the psychologically significant $10.000 per cwt (about $220 per ton) level, again dragging prices to levels not seen since mid-2010. Today’s action confirms the current bearish outlook and forecasts lower prices in coming sessions.

A break down and close below the previously mentioned level of support would likely trigger additional selling on the part of specs and could initiate another leg to the downside. The question now becomes at what point the market represents an attractive value to commercial interests and when do they step in to take on or add to a long position to fill basic demand. The other grains gave back a portion of yesterday’s gains today; Soybeans closed about 1.5% lower at $9.7200 per bushel; wheat finished about 0.5% lower at $5.1100 per bushel, and corn finished the day about 0.6% lower at $3.8350 per bushel.

U.S. stocks pared gains to trade narrowly mixed on Wednesday as low oil prices continued to weigh on the energy sector, putting pressure on the S&P 500. Crude oil futures touched a low for the day of below $50 a barrel, down more than 6% and near Monday's settlement level. Oil prices have fallen around 50% from a high of $114 a barrel last June on the back of an over-supply and lack of demand. This week's rebound sparked hopes that prices had hit a bottom after a seven-month rout, but growth concerns in China have prompted renewed concern for global oil demand. The Greek debt situation remained unclear as finance minister Yanis Varoufakis met with European Central Bank President Mario Draghi. The Dow Jones Industrial Average came off highs to trade 37 points higher, or 0.21%, at 17,702.

The S&P 500 traded down 5 points, or 0.24%, at 2,045, with consumer discretionary leading 4 of the 10 sectors, and energy the greatest laggard. The Nasdaq rose 0.44 points, or 0.01%, to 4,728. Gold is trading about 0.3% higher, crude oil is seen trading about 7.7% lower, and the U.S. dollar is seen trading about 0.5% higher at about  1:00pm Chicago time.Tuesday, there were 811 contracts traded, down from 2,282 contracts traded on Monday. Open interest – the number of contracts outstanding – on Tuesday decreased by 10 contracts to 10,291.

Nepal Imports 97,098 Tons of Rice from India in First Six Months of FY 2014-15; Up 42% from Last Year

Feb 04, 2015

        

Nepal has imported about 97,098 tons of rice from India through the Belhiya (Bhairahawa) transit point in the first six months of the current fiscal year 2014-15 (August 2014 - July 2015), up about 42% from around 68,397 tons imported during the same period in FY 2013-14 according to the Customs officials.Nepal's rice imports from India have been increasing over the last few years due to Nepalese preference for fine rice over medium and coarse rice, according to an official from the Ministry of Agricultural Development.

According to Nepal Rastra Bank's (NRB) statistics, Nepal imported rice worth Rs.12.37 billion (around $121.45 million) in 2013-14, up about 46% from around Rs.8.47 billion (around $83.16 million) despite surplus rice stocks of around 800,000 tons from the previous fiscal due to rising disposable incomes and the Nepalese preference for better quality rice.According to MoAD, rice imports are expected to increase this year also due to an expected decline in production. Nepal's 2014 paddy rice production is likely to decline about 5.1% to around 4.78 million tons from around 5 million tons last year due to a late monsoon and untimely rainfall, according to MoAD sources. The decline is primarily attributed to below average rainfall during the transplantation time.

USDA estimates Nepal to import around 350,000 tons of rice in 2015. It estimates Nepal’s MY 2014-15 (October 2014 – September 2015) paddy rice production to decline to about 4.655 million tons (around 3.1 million tons, basis milled) from an estimated 5 million tons (around 3.36 million tons, basis milled) in MY 2013-14.

Asia Rice Quotes Unchanged Today

Feb 04, 2015

Asia rice sellers kept their quotes mostly unchanged today.

5% Broken Rice

Thailand 5% rice is quoted at around $405 - $415 per ton, about $50 per ton premium on Vietnam 5% rice shown at around $355 - $365 per ton. India 5% rice is quoted at around $395 - $405 per ton, about $40 per ton premium on Pakistan 5% rice quoted at around $355 - $365 per ton.

25% Broken Rice 

Thailand 25% rice is quoted at around $365 - $375 per ton, about $40 per ton premium on Vietnam 25% rice shown at around $325- $335 per ton. India 25% rice is quoted at around $360 - $370, about $50 per ton premium on Pakistan 25% rice quoted at around $310 - $320 per ton.

Parboiled Rice

Thailand parboiled rice is quoted at around $405 - $415 per ton. India parboiled rice is quoted at around $390 - $400 per ton, about $10 per ton discount to Pakistan parboiled rice quoted at around $400 - $410 per ton.

100% Broken Rice

Thailand broken rice, A1 Super, is quoted at around $320 - $330 per ton, about $15 per ton premium on Vietnam 100% broken rice shown at around $305 - $315 per ton. India's 100% broken rice is shown at around $295 - $305 per ton,  about $15 per ton premium on Pakistan broken sortexed rice quoted at around $280 - $290 per ton.

China Decides to Retain 2015 Minimum Rice Purchase Prices at 2014 Level

Feb 04, 2015

The Chinese government has decided to continue the state stockpiling policy for rice in 2015 as well but will retain the minimum rice purchase prices (MRPP) at last year's level, Reuters quoted the National Development and Reform Commission as saying.The MRPP for early indica rice reserve purchases will continue at 135 yuan per 50 kilograms (around $432 per ton), MRPP for middle and late-season indica rice as well as for japonica rice will be retained at 138 yuan per 50 kilograms (around $442 per ton) and 155 yuan per 50 kilograms (around $496 per ton). respectively.

The Chinese government has been purchasing rice from farmers under the policy since 2004. The government will intervene and buys rice from farmers at the state-set MRPP if the market price falls below MRPP.Experts view that the government has not increased MRPP from last year's levels despite increase in production costs as it is keen on taking the MRPP close to market prices. All these years China had been purchasing rice from farmers at above market prices and thus has accumulated huge stocks. Now, if the government wants to release those stocks into the market, it may have to compromise with prices.Since the government has been planning to eventually scrap the state stockpiling policy, the decision not to increase MRPP this year seems to indicate a step in that direction, say experts.

Research Group Urges Government of Ghana to Develop Support Strategy for Small Scale Rice Farmers

Feb 04, 2015

A report released by the Ghana Trade and Livelihood Coalition (GTLC), a  trade and agriculture advocacy, research and practice organisation, has found that small scale rice farmers need government support in land acquisition, training in using latest agricultural farming equipment as well as financial support from banks. A study conducted by the GTLC covering about 660 rice farmers in about 10 small-scale rice areas in nine administrative regions found that farmers are seeking government support in the above mentioned areas in order to increase yield per hectare.

A Senior Lecturer from the Department of Economics of the University of Ghana commented on the results of the study saying that the government needs to recognize the financial needs of the small-scale farmers and should consider facilitating financing through banks. He noted that due to inadequate support from the government, farmers are forced to take loans from microfinance institutions at high interest rates consequently impacting their incomes.

The study also found that farmers are willing to accept new methods of cultivation and it is high time for the government to react. The government should ensure that policies are properly implemented to get desired results.GTLC has been collecting data on agriculture to assess the implementation of the agriculture sector policies and their impact on small scale farmers in Ghana since 2009 and the report was released in 2014.

Earlier, the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body (GRIB) also urged the government to adopt new strategies, including providing access to quality seeds, fertilizers, irrigation facilities, modern rice farming technologies, milling units as well as drying and storage units, to boost rice production in the country.Ghana produces only 30% of its annual consumption needs of around one million tons and imports the rest. The government is currently planning to increase rice production by about 20% per annum over the next four years to make the country self-sufficient in rice and subsequently ban rice imports.According to the USDA, Ghana’s rice production is estimated at about 330,000 tons (milled basis) in MY 2014-15 (October - September). The U.S. agency expects Ghana to import 620,000 tons of rice during the year to meet consumption needs of around one million tons of rice.

5th February (Thursday) ,2015 Daily Global Rice e-Newsletter by Riceplus Magazine

Arsenic in Rice 1/11/15

Published On: Feb 04 2015 01:50:45 PM CST

Rice and many products containing rice have significant levels of inorganic arsenic, which is linked to cancer.The Food and Drug Administration recommends parents consider other options rather than rice cereal for their children's first solid food."Rice comes in lots of varieties. And it's a common ingredient in many packaged foods. Consumer Reports analyzed Food and Drug Administration data on more than 600 foods that contain rice and found some with worrisome levels of inorganic arsenic."We found that hot rice cereal and rice pasta can have much more arsenic than we saw in our previous tests. So we now recommend that children rarely eat these foods, which means not more than twice a month.

" And Consumer Reports recommends children under five limit rice drinks, rice cakes and ready-to-eat rice cereals.Michael Crupain, "Levels of arsenic vary. We based our recommendations on the higher levels in each food group to offer consumers the best protection."As for rice itself, Consumer Reports' lab tests in 2012 found high levels of inorganic arsenic in white rice and even higher levels in brown rice. Michael Crupain, "Arsenic in our food is a real public health problem and we think it's important to eat less of it."
Consumer Reports has tested other types of rice and other grains and has found several alternatives with much lower levels of inorganic arsenic.

Some good choices - sushi rice from the U.S. and white basmati rice from California, India and Pakistan. Michael Crupain, "On average they had half the amount of arsenic as most other types of rice." Other good options - bulgur, barley and farro … and gluten-free grains like amaranth, buckwheat, millet and quinoa.The USA Rice Federation says, "studies show that including white or brown rice in the diet provides measureable health benefits that outweigh the potential risks associated with exposure to trace levels of arsenic.

" The Food and Drug Administration says "an ongoing assessment of arsenic in rice remains a priority for the agency."It plans to release a draft assessment of potential health risks.f you eat brown rice, Consumer Reports found brown basmati rice from California, India and Pakistan has about one third less inorganic arsenic than other brown rice.

 http://www.news8000.com/money/on-your-side/arsenic-in-rice-11115/31093472

Industrial Market Research Reports Annoucements

Market research report into the global rice bran oil industry for 2015 just published

WhaTech Channel: Industrial Market Research Reports

Published on Wednesday, 04 February 2015 21:47

Submitted by Salil Modak 

News from: Reportstack™ - Browse and Buy Market Research Reports

This report has introduced Rice Bran Oil markets in China and other countries or regions (such as US, Europe, Japan, etc) by presenting research on global products of different types and applications developments and trends of market, technology, and competitive landscape, and leading suppliers and countries’2009-2014 capacity, production, cost, price, profit, production value, and gross margin.

2015 Market Research Report on Global Rice Bran Oil Industry is a new market research publication announced by Reportstack. This report is a professional and depth research report on Global Rice Bran Oil industryFor overview analysis, the report introduces Rice Bran Oil basic information including definition, classification, application, industry chain structure, industry overview, policy analysis, and news analysis, etc

For international and China market analysis, the report analyzes Rice Bran Oil markets in China and other countries or regions (such as US, Europe, Japan, etc) by presenting research on global products of different types and applications developments and trends of market, technology, and competitive landscape, and leading suppliers and countries’2009-2014 capacity, production, cost, price, profit, production value, and gross margin. For leading suppliers, related information is listed as products, customers, application, capacity, market position, and company contact information, etc.

2015-2020 forecast on capacity, production, cost, price, profit, production value, and gross margin for these markets are also included

Modern genetics (not necessarily GMOs) can help spur next Green Revolution

Tim Folger | February 4, 2015 | National Geographic

The green revolution transformed global agriculture. Through selective breeding, Norman Borlaug, an American biologist, created a dwarf variety of wheat that resulted in more grain per acre. Similar work at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines dramatically improved the productivity of the grain that feeds nearly half the world.From the 1960s through the 1990s, yields of rice and wheat in Asia doubled. Even as the continent’s population increased by 60 percent, grain prices fell, the average Asian consumed nearly a third more calories, and the poverty rate was cut in half.

To keep doing that between now and 2050, we’ll need another green revolution. One vision is high-tech, with a heavy emphasis on continuing Borlaug’s work of breeding better crops, but with modern genetic techniques. The signature technology of this approach—and the one that has brought both success and controversy to Monsanto—is genetically modified, or GM, crops.But Monsanto is not the only organization that believes modern plant genetics can help feed the world. At the International Rice Research Institute only a few varieties are GM crops, in the sense that they contain a gene transferred from a different species.The institute’s entire breeding operation has been accelerated by modern genetics.

For decades IRRI breeders patiently followed the ancient recipe: Select plants with the desired trait, cross-pollinate, wait for the offspring to reach maturity, select the best performers, repeat. Now there’s an alternative to that painstaking process. In 2004 an international consortium of researchers mapped the entire rice genome, which comprises some 40,000 individual genes. Since then, researchers around the world have been pinpointing genes that control valuable traits and can be selected directly.

Iowa rice farmer to be inducted into Louisiana Agriculture Hall of Distinction

Posted: Feb 04, 2015 2:48 PM PSTUpdated: Feb 04, 2015 2:48 PM PST

By Monica Grimaldo

IOWA, LA (KPLC) -As a 3rd generation rice producer, Jimmy Hoppe has managed to make a name for himself in the state's rice farming industry. Now, his hard work has landed him a spot in the 2015 Louisiana Agriculture Hall of Distinction."This is an honor that is totally unexpected," said an humble Hoppe during his interview with KPLC-TV on his Jeff Davis Parish farm Wednesday. "People have honored me with certain things and I just want to make sure I remember that they've did it."His passion for the rice farming industry started early.

He began as a state FFA officers at Fenton High School, gaining knowledge and experience he's used on state and national agriculture organizations for the past 50 years. Hoppe remains busy running a specialty rice package business with his wife, Brenda. The aromatic-type rice called 'Jazzman' has garnered customers from all over the nation."It feels good be able to know that people are enjoying something that you've been involved in," said Hoppe. "It's just one of those things, it's very gratifying.

"Hoppe also assists and mentors his young tenant farmer in the production of rice, soybeans and wheat on his farm, even through the industry's tough times."A lot of young people are not getting into farming because it's just too costly to get started," he said. "The main reason that farmers stay in business is because they're self-employed, they are making the decisions and they like doing what they do."He also says in order to be a successful farmer, one must know their business inside and out.

"Just have the knowledge of everything that they have to face," he said.Ceremonies honoring the 2015 inductees into the Louisiana Agriculture Hall of Distinction will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 5 at White Oak Plantation. Hoppe was voted U.S. rice farmer of the year in 1999 and is also known for his contributions in cutting-edge agricultural research and working with the LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station. 

CCC Announces Prevailing World Market Prices

WASHINGTON, DC -- The Department of Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation today announced the following prevailing world market prices of milled and rough rice, adjusted for U.S. milling yields and location, and the resulting marketing loan-gain (MLG) and loan deficiency payment (LDP) rates applicable to the 2014 crop, which became effective today at 7:00 a.m., Eastern Time (ET).  Rough rice prices decreased $0.04 per cwt for both long grain and $0.17 for medium/short grain.  The changes in the announced prices and rates reflect world market prices and technical changes due to the milling yield information available for the 2014 crop. World Price MLG/LDP Rate Milled Value ($/cwt) Rough ($/cwt) Rough ($/cwt) Long-Grain 15.93 10.32 0.00 Medium-/Short-Grain 15.53 10.46 0.00 Brokens 9.61   ---- ---- This week's prevailing world market prices and MLG/LDP rates are based on the following U.S. milling yields and the corresponding loan rates: U.S. Milling Yields Whole/Broken (lbs/cwt) Loan Rate ($/cwt) Long-Grain 57.21/12.55 6.64 Medium-/Short-Grain 61.89/8.83 6.51 The next program announcement is scheduled for February 11.

CME Group/Closing Rough Rice Futures

CME Group (Prelim):  Closing Rough Rice Futures for February 4 Month Price Net Change March 2015 $10.250 - $0.135 May 2015 $10.505 - $0.140 July 2015 $10.760 - $0.140 September 2015 $10.625 - $0.125 November 2015 $10.795 - $0.125 January 2016 $10.885 - $0.125 March 2016 $10.885 - $0.125

 

RICE EXPORTS BOOST 3.5PC IN SIX MONTHS

Wednesday, February 04, 2015 - Islamabad—Rice exports increased by 3.46 percent during the first half of the current fiscal year compared to the corresponding period of last year. According to data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the rice exports were recorded at $976.784 from July-December (2014-15) compared to the exports of $944.077 in July-December (2013-14), showing an increase of 3.46 percent.

Among the rice commodities, the exports of basmati rice increased by 2.63 percent by going up from $294.517 million last year to $302.265 during the first six months of the current fiscal year. The exports of all other rice commodities increased by 3.84 percent during the period under review as it went up from $649.560 million last year to $674.519 million in the current year, the PBS data revealed.Meanwhile, on year-on-year basis, the over all exports of rice witnessed negative growth of 9.17 percent in December 2014 compared to the exports of December 2013. The rice exports in December 2014 were recorded at $238.179 million compared to the exports of $262.219 million in December 2013. On month-on-month basis, the rice exports in December witnessed increase of 7.68 percent when compare to the exports of $221.197 million in November 2014.

Among the rice commodities, the exports of basmati rice decreased by 27.10 and 3.29 percent in December 2014 compared to December 2013 and November 2014 respectively. Similarly, the exports of other rice commodities decreased by 3.69 percent when compared to the exports of December 2014 and increased by 10.58 percent when compared to November 2014, the PBS data revealed.It is pertinent to mention here that the overall exports from the country during the first six months of the current fiscal year were recorded at $12.073 billion compared to the exports of $12.617 billion during the corresponding period of last year, showing negative growth of 4.31 percent. On the other hand, the imports into the country increased by 11.68 percent during the first half of the current fiscal year by going up from $21.671 billion in July-December (2013-14) to $24.203 billion in July-December (2014-15).—APP

http://pakobserver.net/detailnews.asp?id=259607

Asia Rice-Lower prices stimulate buyers in Iraq, Malaysia, Africa

Wed Feb 4, 2015 8:02am GMT

"Vietnam is very much willing to sell now so any price below $360 a tonne (for 5 percent broken rice) could be accepted," another trader in Ho Chi Minh City said."Buying for Africa has started, but given prices dropping, buyers are not rushing in," he said.Loading is under way in Vietnam's Saigon Port for 40,000 tonnes of 5-percent broken rice for Africa, and another 20,000 tonnes will be loaded after Tet, the country's Lunar New Year festival, said the trader with the European firm.Malaysia has also agreed to buy 240,000 tonnes of Vietnam's 5-percent broken rice for April-November deliveries, traders in Vietnam said.

Prices are expected to remain under pressure, with supplies in Vietnam jumping next month when farmers start harvesting the winter-spring crop in the Mekong Delta on a large scale.In Thailand, Iraq has bought about 80,000 tonnes of rice in an international tender that closed last week at a price of $443.90 a tonne, cost, insurance and freight free out (CIFFO), European traders said.The Thai government has still not finalised results for the sale of 1 million tonnes of rice from state warehouses, although the volume is expected to keep a lid on prices.

"Rice prices won't go anywhere anytime soon," a Bangkok-based trader said.Thai 5-percent broken rice eased to $413 per tonne, FOB, on Wednesday, from $415 a tonne a week ago.Top world rice exporter Thailand will likely ship 10 million tonnes this year, down around 7 percent from 2014, Thai Rice Exporters Association said this week.

(Additional reporting by Kaweewit Kaewjinda in BANGKOK; Editing by Tom Hogue)

http://af.reuters.com/article/moroccoNews/idAFL4N0VE3E620150204?pageNumber=2&virtualBrandChannel=0

Rice crops above Chao Phraya Dam threatened by water shortage

National News Bureau of Thailand Wednesday 4 February 2015

Irrigation officials fear the receding water level above the Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat province could lead to partial damages to rice fields situated nearby. According to the acting chief of the water distribution and management unit of the Royal Irrigation Office 12, at the moment the Bhumibol Dam is storing 5.9 billion cubic meters of water or 45 per cent of its capacity while the Sirikit Dam has 5.7 billion cubic meters or 60 per cent. Of the combined amount, only 4.9 billion cubic meters are usable. As for the Chao Phraya Dam, the level of water above the dam is measured at 14.20 meters above mean sea level and it is speculated to continue to recede.

Some of the reasons behind the decrease are the distribution of the water to Bangkok for tap water production and the ongoing effort to flush out salt water. The water discharge rate is still maintained at 70 cubic meters per second. Out of the 1.3 million rai of off-season paddies situated upstream of the Chao Phraya Dam, 800,000 rai has yet to be harvested. If the water level continues to decline, some of the remaining crops could be devastated by drought. 

Farmers growing 4 million rai of rice despite advice against it

BANGKOK, 4 February 2015 (NNT)-The Water Watch and Monitoring System Warning Center is urging rice farmers not to grow crops this summer, saying 58% of the water reserved for use during the dry season has been depleted. According to the Center, four major dams located in low lying areas of the Chao Praya River at present contain a combined total of 6.2 billion cubic meters of water, a little more than half of their capacity.

The four include Bhumipol, Sirikit, Kwae Noi and Pasakcholasit dams. Around 1.3 million cubic meters of water, reserved primarily for consumption during the drought crisis, reportedly remains in storage. Farmers are thus urged not to grow off-season rice to ensure an adequate supply of water during the summer, as over 4.11 million rai of farmland has so far been used to grow rice against the Irrigation Department's advice. However, the Center is confident there will still be sufficient water to support the next rice growing season.

http://thainews.prd.go.th/centerweb/newsen/NewsDetail?NT01_NewsID=WNSOC5802040010024#sthash.7NH8jCWt.dpuf

Costly rice seen limiting Thai exports

Published: 4 Feb 2015 at 08.09

Newspaper section: Business,Writer: Phusadee Arunmas

Thai rice exporters are projecting shipments of just 10 million tonnes this year, mainly due to high prices for Thai grains. The amount is much lower than the previous forecasts of the Commerce Ministry and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Charoen Laothammatas, president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, said yesterday.The association expects shipments to fetch US$5.95 billion or 161 billion baht in 2015.The 10-million-tonne amount includes 5 million tonnes of white rice, 2 million tonnes of Hom Mali fragrant rice, 2.7 million tonnes of parboiled rice, 100,000 tonnes of glutinous rice and 200,000 tonnes of Pathumthani fragrant rice.

The USDA earlier forecast Thai rice exports of 11.3 million tonnes, and the Commerce Ministry announced recently that it was upbeat on Thailand returning to global dominance with as much as 11 million tonnes shipped this year.Thailand exported 10.96 million tonnes of rice last year, up 66% from 2013. Export value rose by 23% to $5.43 billion.Mr Charoen said 2015 would be challenging for rice exports, with Thai rice now quoted at the highest price in the region.For instance, key rival Vietnam's free-on-board price for 5% white rice is $350-360 a tonne, compared with Thai grains quoted at $405-410.

Last year, Thai rice prices were $20-30 cheaper than those of Vietnam."This year, Thailand is expected to see stiffer competition, while the government's massive rice stocks and volatile foreign exchange due to quantitative easing (QE) in Europe and Japan are likely to exert further pressure on the price of Thai rice," Mr Charoen said."Falling oil prices are also expected to lead potential rice buyers in Africa such as Nigeria to buy less."Moreover, drought conditions are seen lowering domestic production, particularly for the second crop.Chookiat Ophaswongse, honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, said lower exports would apply especially to white and parboiled rice, as potential buyers are expected to shift to cheaper grains from other rice producers because of falling oil prices and the strong baht.

Vichai Sriprasert, another honorary president of the association, said foreign exchange would play a key role in how Thai rice exports perform, with foreign QE measures of particular importance.He urged the central bank to help manage the baht and move it in line with the currencies of other regional competitors."The Thai baht is now relatively strong compared with other currencies in the region, and even Singapore announced a surprise easing of its currency policy to dampen inflationary expectations and support growth," Mr Vichai said.

Phil Rice News

Shift focus from plant to farmer – PhilRice exec

In more than three years as PhilRice executive director, Dr. Eufemio T. Rasco, Jr. has stood with his conviction to swing rice R&D direction from the rice crop to the rice farmer.“When you focus on the rice farmer, you begin to realize that the rice environment is not only about rice. There are many  things you can do in the rice environment with the rice farmers so that you can extricate them from poverty,” Rasco said.During the turnover ceremony of PhilRice leadership, 3 February, Rasco reiterated the need to start using the rice farming environment as the unit of productivity analysis instead of the rice plant.

Rasco retired from government service as he turned 65 on 2 February 2015.DA Assistant Secretary for Field Operations and Director of the National Rice and Corn Programs Edilberto M. De Luna assumed post as PhilRice officer-in-charge effective 3 February.  The search for the new executive director is ongoing.

Summing up his term, Rasco said “PhilRice is probably the easiest organization to manage. With the dedicated and professional manpower you have here, it can run on auto-pilot and not crash.”

Rasco urged PhilRice staff members to pursue “the change that we have trodden together” – to continue advocating for agriculture-based biosystems in the rice farm.

Rasco and research at PhilRice

Rasco dedicated almost 4 decades of his career to public service. During his stint as executive director, Rasco envisioned to transform rural communities into more productive and sustainable agri-business enterprises. He has always believed in exploring the potentials of the rice lands to augment rice farming income.He institutionalized five new R&D programs to address the current and future challenges in the rice sector.

These are Coping with climate change, High-value products from rice and its environment,  Farming without fossil energy, Intensified rice-based agri-bio systems, and FutureRice. Each is geared toward a self-sufficient, sustainable, and competitive rice economy.To operationalize these programs, Rasco led the creation of various centers that would help develop appropriate technologies for rice-based ecosystem.

 The Applied Biology Center for the Rice Environment aims to increase outputs and reduce inputs in rice farming and rice-based enterprises through applied biology.Rasco also supported research studies on other sources of energy such as bioethanol and hybrid energy (e.g. wind/solar, biomass/solar) to develop an energy system for rice-based agriculture that is renewable, decentralized, and diversified.“To him, farming without fossil energy is the scientific description for what is commonly called but misunderstood organic agriculture,” said PhilRice Deputy Executive Director for Research Dr. Manuel Jose C. Regalado.Recognizing seeds as a critical input, Rasco also established the Genetics Resources Division to facilitate seed transfer and germplasm exchange. The Seed Technology Division, on the other hand, was established to ensure  high seed quality of the newly-released rice varieties through compact demonstration.

Rasco and development at PhilRice

Rasco strengthened the promotion and adoption of research outputs through development programs. He conceptualized the Palayabangan 10-5 challenge to fast-track the search for technology that can increase production to 10t/ha at a cost of Php5/kg.His term also birthed the National Year of Rice in 2013 to engage the public in the country’s bid for rice self-sufficiency. As a follow through, Rasco advocated the Gusto Namin Milyonaryo Kayo campaign to push for rural transformation rather than mere technology transmission. He also supported youth engagement in agriculture through the Infomediary Campaign.

“PhilRice has three treasures [according to Rasco]:  people, germplasm, and information. From these, rice R&D should eventually help rice-based farmers become rich,” Regalado said.

Organizational management

PhilRice also changed its organizational structure with the separation of research and development but with a continuum of functions. Rasco calls it RDDD or research, development, demonstration, and deployment.“Research and development is done by our research arm while demonstration and deployment is done by the development group. We develop new technologies and create a show window of these technologies,” Rasco explained.Rasco’s initiative to revamp the qualification and performance standards of PhilRice staff members led to a 700% increase in publication and various awards from 2011 to 2014. He also redefined the mandate of the branch stations to serve as technology development centers or nuclei to facilitate technology deployment and services to surrounding communities.

Dr. Eduardo Jimmy P. Quilang, PhilRice deputy executive director for Development, described Rasco as a transformative, visionary, and innovative leader.“He has been a very good mentor;  although he does it subtly. You will just realize he has already taught you the ways to efficiently do your job,” Quilang said.Pres. Benigno Aquino III appointed Rasco on secondment as the fourth Executive Director of PhilRice on 14 July 2011 in his concurrent capacity as professor in UP Mindanao.

Most cited PhilRice scientist retires from gov’t service

Highly cited PhilRice scientist and crop physiologist Dr. Rolando T. Cruz ended his 19 years of government service at the Institute, January 23. Cruz, who worked at the Agronomy, Soils, and Plant Physiology Division (ASPPD), was responsible for conducting systems analysis and simulation modelling for potential yield and nitrogen optimization in irrigated rice systems.In addition, he spent several years developing practical field diagnostic tools for plant nutrient status and evaluating chemical and physical properties of soil-plant-water interactions.

To date, Cruz is the most cited PhilRice scientist with 1,221 citations both in local and international refereed journals.“When you are cited in scientific literature, it means you are a recognized scientist both nationally and internationally. Dr. Cruz gave PhilRice a name, and it’s a great honor for our Institute,” said Dr. Eufemio T. Rasco, Jr., executive director.

He also led the development of the Palaycheck System for irrigated rice ecosystems to increase on-farm rice yields. PalayCheck is PhilRice’s banner program for favorable environments.“PhilRice offers anyone the chance to be with the farmers,” said Cruz during a short program organized by the Institute. He cited the Institute as a “farmer-oriented” agency and thanked his colleagues and the staff he worked with in the development of new technologies for the farmers.

Cruz finished Bachelor of Science in Agronomy and Master of Science in Agronomy and Crop Physiology from the University of the Philippines Los Baños. He obtained his PhD in Agronomy, Plant Physiology, and Soil-Plant-Water Relations from the Texas Agriculture and Mechanical (A&M) University. He also spent 10 years at IRRI as a researcher and as a visiting research associate at the Michigan State University for a year.  He was conferred Scientist I in the Scientific Career System in 2008. In 2010-2011, he was a visiting professor at Charles Sturt University in New South Wales, Australia.

Cruz was born in Dapitan, Manila and is based in Los Baños, Laguna. He will continue working for PhilRice as a consultant and mentor of young researchers.

Farmers inspire kids’ art

It was more than just a school project for grade 3 students of Adonai Integrated Montessori School in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. For Edward Johanne Y. Quilang, Caleb John H. Bandonil, Ghenard V. Fernandez, John Cedric L. Labugnen, Erelle John S. Clamelo, and Wilfred Neal R. Bernardo, no one is too young to care for the Filipino rice farmers.

When Science teacher Aurora A. Ferrer assigned the students to make different kinds of landforms, the group, led by Quilang, envisioned a landform that would pay tribute to the farmers.For 3 days, the kids made a recreational area, ricefield and put a helicopter, sports cars, and farm animals on a makeshift rectangular cardboard.“This is how we want them to live when they are no longer poor,” said Bandonil, the group’s landscape designer.

Rich farmers

Sharon C. Caballero, grade 3 class adviser, shared that the students are taught how to value the hard work of Filipino farmers in subjects such as Social Studies. “They wonder why the farmers in our country are poor, and perhaps that’s the reason why they are more inspired to make a landform that depicts the life of a rich farmer,” she said.Students Bernardo and Fernandez, both farmers’ children, are happy that they made an art work for their parents whom they hope to be as wealthy as the farmers in other countries.

Youth and agriculture

It is rare to meet youngsters nowadays to have such strong consciousness on agriculture. But what do we have for Adonai boys to help strengthen their interest?

Fortunately, PhilRice created programs and conducts various events to attract the youth to agriculture and raise their consciousness on rice farming.The institute holds the Lakbay Palay for students. It is a half-day activity where students learn about new machines used in rice farming, new varieties, and information technology support including the PhilRice Text Center and PinoyRice . Young professionals of the Institute also engage the students in discussion to address common misconceptions on agriculture.

In partnership with the Bureau of Plant Industry, National Parks Development Committee, and the Asia Rice Foundation, a rice garden was also established at the Luneta Park in Manila to bring rice farming closer to urban youth. Soon, similar rice gardens will be put up in some major cities of the country.In 2014, PhilRice re-launched the Rice Science Museum to promote education on rice through culture and arts. Currently, it houses old and modern farm implements, artworks, and interactives on rice structure, ecosystems, biodiversity, and crop management. On average, the museum welcomes 3,000-4,000 guests, mostly students, every month.The Adonai boys hope that their dreams for the Filipino farmers will not remain in vain. It might take them a lifetime, but the artwork is their first step.

Science City of Muñoz recognizes PhilRice scientists

Three PhilRice scientists were recognized by the local government of the Science City of Muñoz in Nueva Ecija for “giving pride and honor to the city and for their contribution in scientific research.”The Institute’s executive director Dr. Eufemio T. Rasco Jr., Ms. Thelma F. Padolina, and Dr. Riza A. Ramos received plaques of recognition during the Teachers and Employees’ Night, January 9.Ramos was recognized for receiving the 2014 UPLB Distinguished Alumna Award and Padolina for the Asian-wide Senadhira Rice Research Award given by the International Rice Research Institute.Padolina is the first Filipino and the first woman Senadhira awardee.

Meanwhile, UPLB recognized Ramos’s contribution in enhancing the micronutrient content (folate, iron and zinc) of Philippine rice, which created significant impact on the complementary and sustainable solution to the micronutrient-deficiency problem in the country. She has numerous publications in the said area in refereed international journals.The UK-educated scientist is currently the chief of PhilRice’s Rice Chemistry and Food Science Division. Her current research involvement is on nutritional quality assessment important for Philippine rice, factors influencing food intake and nutritional status of rice-based farm households, and quality assessment of iron and zinc rice lines.

Focused and significant accomplishments on rice breeding thereby contributing significantly to improving Filipino farmers’ lives earned Padolina the Senadhira Rice Research Award.“PhilRice is known for its world-class efforts in rice science. The staff complementing the mission of PhilRice is one of the most important building blocks to sustain the excellent status of the Institute,” said Padolina.Padolina, who just recently retired, served the Institute for 26 years.

She chaired the Rice Technical Working Group (RTWG) from 1993 to 1995 and has been the National Cooperative Test Coordinator from 1998 to present. The RTWG implements the NCT and is a technical working group of the National Seed Industry Council (NSIC) mandated under the Seed Industry Development Act of 1992 (RA 7308) to nominate new and improved rice varieties for cultivation.“We are proud of the individual accomplishments of our staff members who have earned their awards through persistent dedication and hard work.

 For PhilRice to preserve its tradition of excellence, it must continue to improve,” said Rasco who received the Leadership Award.The City recognized 17 outstanding individuals from different agencies.The Science City of Muñoz is home to various research and educational institutions such as the Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech), and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).

PhilRice Agusan is best branch station again

PhilRice Agusan received the top prize in the 2014 Best Station contest – an annual internal competition organized by the Institute to elevate and improve the modalities in promoting new technologies in rice production. It also aims to highlight the best-fit practices of the stations in rice R&D.Agusan was also recognized for successfully and creatively executing the Intensified Rice-Based Agri-bio Systems (IRBAS) program in support of PhilRice’s major advocacy, the Rural Transformation Movement (RTM).

RTM aims to help reduce poverty by promoting diversified farming and agri-business ventures. Nucleus estates will be put up to give farmers access to support services including training, inputs, custom services, technologies, product development and packaging, and marketing.

“I thank the PhilRice management for organizing this contest and all my colleagues for keeping our station beautiful,” said Abner T. Montecalvo, station manager.PhilRice Midsayap and Batac placed 2nd and 3rd, and were cited for creating a strategic research direction and for continually improving their internal systems and processes in accordance with Integrated Management Systems standards. PhilRice has three ISO certifications.

The following awards were also given: Most Improved Field Day to Los Baños; Most Interactive Field Day to Negros; and Most Innovative External Linkage to Bicol.The judges traveled across the country to evaluate each station based on the following: IRBAS (Rural Transformation Campaign Execution); level of mechanization; organization of field day; varietal demo; client satisfaction; innovations; internal processes and financial reports; housekeeping and safety; state of infrastructure; income generation; and station management.

The judges were Dr. Rex Navarro, former director for communications of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT); Dr. Genaro San Valentin and Thelma Padolina, PhilRice consultants; Charlene Tan, founder of Good Food Community; and Donald Mateo, from the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech).PhilRice Agusan had earlier received the Best Field Day (2011) and Best Station awards (2013).

"When You Know Something, Say What You Know. When You Don't Know Something, Say That You Don't Know. That Is Knowledge." - Confucius