India – Govt abolishes basmati rice MEP
Source: Hindustan Times06/07/2012 – The government on Wednesday scrapped the minimum export price (MEP) on basmati rice to boost exports.
Laos – Consumers warned over rice price hike
Source: Lao Voices03/07/2012 – The price of rice may see a big surge over the next few months if the government does not introduce a sound policy to address the inflation threat.
USA – Blast hits Louisiana rice
Source: Delta Farm Press03/07/2012 – LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station Field Day provides growers with updates on all aspects of the rice business.The tell-tale signs of diseased rice could be seen from the road at the field day, with several plots showing sterile panicles that will produce little or no grain.
India – Rice stays flat amid tepid sales
Source: Business Line02/07/2012 – Arrivals of Sathi rice variety from Uttar Pradesh started last weekend. Around 5,000 bags arrived at the Karnal Grain Market Terminal and sold at Rs 1,040-1,080 a quintal. Arrivals are not regular, it may increase in the coming days, said Mr Tara Chand Sharma, proprietor of Tara Chand and Sons.
Nepal – Nepal marks Rice Plantation Day as country aims to achieve food security
Source: Xinhuanet.com01/07/2012 – Nepal recently observed its Rice Plantation Day as part of its nationwide campaign to increase rice production and achieve food security for all Nepalese.
Philippines – SL Agritech extends hybrid rice seed grants
Source: PhilStar01/07/2012 – Nueva Ecija farmers who were victims of last year’s typhoons “Pedring” and “Quiel” have become beneficiaries of high- yield hybrid rice seeds grants from SL Agritech Corp. (SLAC).
Philippines – Philippines’rice terraces removed from endangered list
Source: Mother Nature Network27/06/2012 – Due to improved preservation and aggressive conservation efforts, the Philippines’ ancient rice terraces no longer qualify as endangered world heritage sites.
Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka suspends rice exports amid drought
Source: Reuters28/06/2012 – Sri Lanka banned rice exports on Thursday until its harvest season next March aiming to stabilise local prices as its major rice-producing area struggles with a prolonged drought.