USA – Rice farmers dealt another blow in ongoing drought
Source: KXAN26/02/2014 – The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality delayed a decision Wednesday that will affect the livelihoods of thousands of people in Southeast Texas.
Guyana – New Venezuelan rice deal being finalized despite ongoing unrests – Agri Ministry
Source: Kaieteur News27/02/2014 – Government says that its rice exports to neighbouring Venezuela will not be affected by ongoing unrests there which left several dead over the past two weeks.The situation has raised worrying questions whether the multi-billion dollar oil-for-rice deal between the two countries will be threatened as Venezuelans are calling for President Nicolas…
Bangladesh – Bangladesh to buy more rice locally to boost reserves
Source: Reuters26/02/2014 – Bangladesh will buy more rice locally in an effort to replenish reserves while it has no plan to import the grain this year, the head of the state grains buyer said on Wednesday.
USA – Research, legal wrangling reap wild rice protections
Source: Star Tribune26/02/2014 – More than half a century ago, a renowned biologist concluded that wild rice doesn’t grow well in lakes that are high in a type of mineral salt that comes pouring off Minnesota’s Iron Range.
Thailand – Thai rice farmers give government a week to make payments
Source: Voice of America21/02/2014 – Pressure on Thailand’s government eased Friday after thousands of rice farmers, preparing to demonstrate in Bangkok over delayed rice payments, accepted promises of money next week. Thai rice sector remains deeply troubled as the government tries to find a way to pay tens of thousands of farmers.
Thailand – Rice farmers returning home
Source: Bangkok Post 21/02/2014 – Rice growers from central provinces on Friday agreed to return home after receiving a promise from the caretaker premier that long overdue rice payments will be made next week, reports said.