Issuu

9th February 2016 Daily global Rice enewsletter by riceplus magazine

Unedited version

www.riceplusmagazine.blogspot.com

Government eyeing to cut palay production cost by 22% by Mary Grace Padin - February 9, 2016 By Mary Grace Padin The Department of Agriculture (DA) is targeting to cut the cost of producing paddy rice by 22 percent to P8.50 per kilogram from the current P11 per kg in its bid to make Filipino farmers more competitive. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the government intends to do this by expanding its farm-mechanization program and improving farmers‘ access to government financial institutions. ―We need to lower the cost of producing palay to P8.50 per kg so local farmers can become more competitive. This needs a lot of work, particularly in the area of farm mechanization,‖ Alcala said. The DA chief said local rice farmers are capable of edging out farmers in other Southeast Asian countries as imported rice are slapped a 35-percent tariff. ―Making locally produced rice cheaper will discourage smugglers, as retail prices of Philippine rice would be on a par with rice brought into the country illegally,‖ Alcala said.

To encourage more farmers to go into planting rice, he said the DA wants to improve their access to government financial institutions where they can obtain production loans. Alcala said farmers who wish to avail themselves of production loans may consider tapping the DA‘s ―Sikat Saka,‖ program where farmers can borrow as much as P52,000 per hectare. ―We will also continue to give out technology and postharvest facilities needed to boost production. Market access is also important,‖ Alcala added. The DA chief said the government was encouraged by results of a competition dubbed as the ―Palayabangan: The 10-5 challenge.‖ The Palayabangan aims to raise palay production to 10 metric tons (MT) per hectare at a cost of P5 per kg. ―From this challenge, we have seen some farmers reaching up to 8 MT per hectare, at a cost of only P6.50,‖ Alcala said. Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that the cost of producing palay in the country averaged P42,061 per hectare in 2013. Cash outlays at P19,715 per hectare comprised nearly 50 percent of total production cost. ―Palay production averaged 3.5 MT per hectare. The gross value of production amounted to P58,894 per hectare, or P16.77 per kg. Returns above cash costs averaged P39,179 per hectare,‖ PSA said. In 2010 a former official of the National Economic and Development Authority urged farmers to shift to planting high-value crops as planting rice is a ―poverty trap.‖ Apart from the high cost of inputs, farmers also have to contend with the ill effects of climate change. Last year the country‘s palay output dropped by 4.31 percent to 18.15 million metric tons (MMT) from 18.97 MMT produced in 2014. The PSA said rice farms recorded lower production due to El Niño and Typhoon Lando (international code name Koppu).

RICE FARMERS NEED SUPPORT: FEDERATION

GOVERNMENT

2/9/2016 MYANMAR TIMES (09-02-2016) RICE FARMERS NEED GOVERNMENT SUPPORT: FEDERATION The agricultural staple will depend heavily on government support over the coming years, said MRF president U Chit Khine at the federation’s annual meeting on February 5, where he presented industry challenges and concerns, and advice on developing the sector. U Chit Khine said the MRF has been pushing the government to legislate rice policy since the federation was founded in 2009, and is hoping the new National League for Democracy-led government will pass policies to support the sector.

Myanmar was once considered the “rice bowl” of Asia and has the potential to become a major exporter, but this will require investment. “We need financing and a budget to develop the rice sector,” U Chit Khine said. “At the most basic level, infrastructure constraints can only be solved with a government budget.” Myanmar is ranked 145 out of 160 countries in the World Bank’s 2014 Logistics Performance Index – the lowest score in Asia. Next year’s budget has already been passed, but once the new government takes power in March, U Chit Khine said the budget should be raised, or relevant ministries should collaborate to change the composition of the agriculture budget. “To draw up a rice policy, we need to collect data on plantation area, local consumption and exports. For now we are still working with estimates,” he said. U Chit Khaing, who is known for his wide-ranging business interests, said he would step down as MRF president in 2017 but would continue to support the rice sector by setting up a non-government organisation. MRF vice president U Soe Tun said expectations should not be too high. “The main thing is the budget, which the previous parliament has already decided for the coming financial year. We need to wait and see whether the new government will try to change that,” he said. If the government can pass new laws and procedures to help develop the sector, it would be very helpful, U Soe Tun said. In the National League for Democracy’s election manifesto the party said it would focus on agricultural reform, drawing on modern ideas and practices and providing assistance to enable small-holder farmers to increase productivity. In “suitable regions” the party said it would encourage mechanised farming, and said it would prioritise agricultural research. “We will encourage and support the expanded production of exportquality crops, including rice that can compete on price and quality in the international market.” The party also said it would prioritise protection against flood risks, and would identify fallow, vacant and virgin lands suitable for agriculture and distribute them to landless people, providing them with legal ownership rights. Finally, the NLD said it would “systematically establish an accurate land registry system, and work to ensure easy access to land records”. This would help encourage more foreign investment into the sector. While agriculture, manufacturing and infrastructure are three “priority” sectors promoted by the Myanmar Investment Commission, due to vague land policies and outdated infrastructure agriculture brings in less than 1 percent of total foreign investment. At the MRF meeting, secretary general U Ye Min Aung said the government should not overspend over the coming year, as the budget has already been approved, but that it will need to raise the budget in fiscal year 2018. U Aung Than Oo, MRF vice president, presented a report suggesting that Myanmar relies too much

on China for exports. While China dominates Myanmar’s rice trade, these exports are not yet legal – Chinese officials are still negotiating quotas and taxes with Myanmar’s Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. Once the discussions are complete, legal shipments can leave Myanmar through the Straits of Malacca to the Chinese ports. For now, rice is smuggled overland into China’s Yunnan province through Muse in Shan State. For now, Chinese authorities turn a blind eye to the trade, but if China was to enforce rules banning Myanmar rice imports it would pose a serious threat to the local market, U Aung Than Oo said. This financial year, 840,804 metric tonnes of rice have been sold across the Chinese border, or 93pc of total exports, he said. http://reap.com.pk/news/news_detail.asp?newsid=3324

Govt involvement can revive paddy culivation, say tech promoters Paul Fernandes | TNN | Feb 9, 2016, 09.45 AM IST Panaji: The success of mechanized transplanting operations across the state is likely to boost a revival of paddy cultivation, but promoters of these cost-saving technologies are suggesting government intervention to facilitate the mechanization process. The demonstration plots used for mechanized transplanting have turned out to be an encouraging sight for local farmers and promoters, as the crops have grown well. With a four-month window available before the next khariff season in June, 2016, timely planning is needed to make the cost-saving technology easily accessible to farmers. "More than 20 demonstrations with transplanters have been carried out across Goa and farmers are happy with the growth of their crops. With the success of mechanized transplanting, there is no question of saying it is still being tried out," Don Bosco Loutolim Society project director, Fr George Quadros, said. The agriculture department and agro technology management agency, are assisting Don Bosco Loutolim Society in popularizing the efficient and labour-saving technology in the state. The introduction of harvesters about a decade ago, kicked off a farming revolution and made the labour-intensive operations easy and efficient. Now, mechanization of paddy cultivation is set to be completed with the successful use of transplanters and seeder machines to raise nurseries.

"The government will have to pump in finance to help purchase the required machinery--either ride on or walk behind transplanters and also seeder machines to raise nurseries," Quadros explained. Agriculture department officials acknowledged the success of transplanters in field trials in rabi season, but are keen to see their effectiveness during kharif crop. "A total of 40 acres of rabi crop were planted by using transplanters and if the same success is achieved during kharif crop, the government will go all out to provide benefits of the machinery to famers in the state," director of agriculture, Ulhas Pai Kakode, said.

Use of transplanters in low lying areas and soils in which water stagnates longer may require more attention. "But their use reduces costs and time. Using the transplanters in my field cost me 7,000 instead of 12,000 and the work was done in three-and-a-half hours instead of two-and-half days," Curtorim-based progressive farmer, Wonadulfo D'Costa, said.

Transplanting and harvesting are two arms of paddy cultivation and agriculturists state that only mechanization can revive the dying traditions. "After harvesters raised hopes, the long delay in introducing transplanters, saw many farmers lose interest in agriculture," a farmer said.

The agriculture department should not delay in purchasing machinery, as it will be useful in areas with porous soil and for rabi crops, sources said.

"In southern states, like Kerala, where different conditions prevail, the machinery has proved effective over the past five years," Quadros said. Recommended By Colombia

"More than 20 demonstrations with transplanters have been carried out across Goa and farmers are happy with the growth of their crops. With the success of mechanized transplanting, there is no question of saying it is still being tried out," Don Bosco Loutolim Society project director, Fr George Quadros, said. The agriculture department and agro technology management agency, are assisting Don Bosco Loutolim Society in popularizing the efficient and labour-saving technology in the state. The introduction of harvesters about a decade ago, kicked off a farming revolution and made the labour-intensive operations easy and efficient. Now, mechanization of paddy cultivation is set to be completed with the successful use of transplanters and seeder machines to raise nurseries. "The government will have to pump in finance to help purchase the required machinery--either ride on or walk behind transplanters and also seeder machines to raise nurseries," Quadros explained. Agriculture department officials acknowledged the success of transplanters in field trials in rabi season, but are keen to see their effectiveness during kharif crop. "A total of 40 acres of rabi crop were planted by using transplanters and if the same success is achieved during kharif crop, the government will go all out to provide benefits of the machinery to famers in the state," director of agriculture, Ulhas Pai Kakode, said.

The agriculture department should not delay in purchasing machinery, as it will be useful in areas with porous soil and for rabi crops, sources said.

"In southern states, like Kerala, where different conditions prevail, the machinery has proved effective over the past five years," Quadros said. Recommended By Colombia Recommended By Colombia

Govt involvement can revive paddy culivation, say tech promoters Paul Fernandes | TNN | Feb 9, 2016, 09.45 AM IST

Panaji: The success of mechanized transplanting operations across the state is likely to boost a revival of paddy cultivation, but promoters of these cost-saving technologies are suggesting government intervention to facilitate the mechanization process. The demonstration plots used for mechanized transplanting have turned out to be an encouraging sight for local farmers and promoters, as the crops have grown well. With a four-month window available before the next khariff season in June, 2016, timely planning is needed to make the cost-saving technology easily accessible to farmers. "More than 20 demonstrations with transplanters have been carried out across Goa and farmers are happy with the growth of their crops. With the success of mechanized transplanting, there is no question of saying it is still being tried out," Don Bosco Loutolim Society project director, Fr George Quadros, said. The agriculture department and agro technology management agency, are assisting Don Bosco Loutolim Society in popularizing the efficient and labour-saving technology in the state. The introduction of harvesters about a decade ago, kicked off a farming revolution and made the labour-intensive operations easy and efficient. Now, mechanization of paddy cultivation is set to be completed with the successful use of transplanters and seeder machines to raise nurseries.

The agriculture department should not delay in purchasing machinery, as it will be useful in areas with porous soil and for rabi crops, sources said.

"In southern states, like Kerala, where different conditions prevail, the machinery has proved effective over the past five years," Quadros said.



          Recommended By Colombia

COMMENTS

Follow / Like us at@timesofindia

RELATED TOPICS

agriculture |rice (commodity) | http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/article8212003.ece

Pakistani pavilion to showcase top food exports at Gulfood DUBAI, 4 hours, 26 minutes ago

Pakistan‘s revitalised food and beverage agricultural industry is readying for a major export push a leading food and hospitality trade platform in Dubai, UAE. Gulfood 2016 will run from February 21 to 25 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).More than 90 Pakistani companies are due to take part in the show across 1,000sq-m, a huge jump from the country‘s 90-sq-m presence in 2008. The increase reflects the emergence of a major exporting sector that is now challenging textiles as Pakistan‘s main foreign exchange earner with worldwide sales topping $5 billion last year.It is being organised by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Pakistan Ministry of Commerce in collaboration with the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai.The US-Pakistan Partnership for Agricultural Market Development and the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai will host a Pakistani Meat Branding dinner on February 23 at the Consul General‘s residence in Dubai, while the former has also set-up a business-to-business ‗Trade Facilitation Center‘ for matchmaking meetings between Pakistani agro-exporters and foreign buyers. Meanwhile, the Sindh Agricultural Growth Project - which aims to improve the productivity and market access of small-to-medium producers in important commodity value chains – is supporting various Sindh provincebased agro-sector growers‘ products and exporters‘ services at Gulfood.Javed Jalil Khattak, Consul General, Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai, said: ―Pakistani exhibitors will be looking to source new buyers for a wide range of Pakistani food and agro sector products including fresh and frozen foods, rice, fruits and vegetables, sauces, nuts, sweets, confectionery and tea.―Buyers can leverage Pakistan‘s cost-competitiveness, lower transport costs and delivery time, and the quality, freshness, taste and aroma of our diverse produce.‖The huge growth in Pakistani participation at Gulfood comes as the country achieved a 27 per cent increase in its food and beverage exports to the UAE alone over the past two years. Rice remains Pakistan‘s leading food export to the UAE with TADP figures showing that Pakistani rice sales to the Emirates have jumped 11 fold to $207.8 million over the last two years. Meat and processed frozen food is another important growth sector for Pakistani exports crossing $100 million mark in period of last three years.Exports of Pakistani fruits and vegetables have also increased more than 100 per cent in the past three years. Sales of dried fruits and vegetables to the UAE rose two-fold and four-fold to $9.7 million and $7.8 million, respectively. The country exported $5.9 million worth of potatoes to the emirates last year – an eight-fold increase on 2012 figures, while sales of Pakistani Fresh and frozen meat have crossed $50 million.Onions, garlic and leeks, fresh or chilled and ginger have also witnessed 300 per cent export growth over the past three years. Citrus fruit, fresh or dried has peaked its exports of over $22 million- an increase of more than 168 per cent in the same

period. With sales of herbs more than doubling over the same period to $4.7 million, Pakistani exporters also grew sales of concentrated milk and cream, vegetable oils and ice-cream from a standing start in 2012 to double or triple figure dollars last year.Dr Saeed Qadir, commercial counsellor, Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai and Northern Emirates, said: ―Pakistan‘s food and agro sectors exports to the Emirates last year touched half a billion dollars which compares extremely favourably to 2012 sales of $362.4 million. ―Pakistan has boosted sales of its traditional agricultural products while simultaneously expanding its reach into new product areas such as processed meat and poultry products, tea, concentrated milk and cream, certain fruits and vegetables, spices, herbs and confectioneries.‖ - TradeArabia News Service

http://www.tradearabia.com/news/MISC_300548.html

Growing hope with Green Super Rice Paula Bianca Ferrer | Feb 9, 2016 More than two years after Typhoon Haiyan devastated the island of Leyte in the Philippines, the survivors, especially the farmers, are still struggling to rebuild their lives. Green Super Rice (GSR) is giving them a fighting chance.

Brilliant blue skies and Green Super Rice bring a smile on Efren Lazarte‘s face after surviving a destructive super typhoon. (Photo by Jessieca Narciso, IRRI)

When Typhoon Haiyan struck Leyte Island in the central Philippines in November 2013, parts of the house of Nemesio Retales were destroyed, with the roof being torn off. Mr. Retales, a farmer and village councilor for a farming community within the island‘s southern municipality of Dagami, recalled, ―I rushed inside our room to fetch my wife. Seconds later, a coconut tree fell down onto where I had originally been standing.‖

Leyte is an island in the Visayas group of the central Philippines. (Map by Juan Lazaro IV)

Felicito Montano, a farmer from the municipality of Tanauan, had a similar brush with one of the most powerful typhoons ever recorded. ―If you could just experience what it was like then,‖ he said. ―Because our roof was gone, we slept under an umbrella. Some nights were more difficult because of the rains. I still feel like crying whenever I think of what we‘ve been through.‖ Lost livelihoods Destruction was everywhere, Mr. Montano vividly recalled: ―Before the storm, the trees, especially the coconuts, were so thick and lush one could hardly see the sunlight coming through their leaves. Now, these lush trees are either uprooted or mangled.‖ Although some survivors are now recovering, others are still struggling to get back on their feet because most of the coconuts, on which most farmers depended for their livelihood, were destroyed. Without the coconuts, Mr. Montano‘s financial circumstances changed. ―Before the storm, I could earn enough income from the coconuts and send money to my sister and mother and still support my family. I had 60 trees and I could harvest as many as 1,000 coconuts,‖ he exclaimed.

―When the coconut price was high, I could earn as much as USD 167 in three months. I was also growing rice and vegetables. I had enough to tide me over back then.‖ Farmers started replanting coconut palms, but it will take at least five years before these start producing fruits. Another green option A silver lining to their gloomy situation came in the form of Green Super Rice (GSR) seeds. GSR varieties bred at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) can thrive in harsh environmentssuch as areas prone to flooding, drought, and salty soils, according to Jauhar Ali, IRRI‘s GSR project leader and coordinator for Asia. The seeds had reached the farmers through Evelyn Gergon, a crop protection specialist from the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), several months before the typhoon came. ―Until now, most farmers in the Philippines prefer to use seeds they have saved from the previous crop instead of certified ones,‖ explained Dr. Gergon. ―This is why we decided to conduct training on high-quality seed production. I heard about GSR when Dr. Ali went to PhilRice to talk about the new rice in a seminar. That was the beginning of how my team and I were able to bring GSR to farmers in Leyte.‖ Mr. Montano was one of the first farmers to grow the tough variety GSR 8. ―I planted it for the first time after I was given 2 kilograms of certified seed after I completed a two-day training course on high-quality seed production at Visayas State University,‖ he said. He sowed those 2 kilograms of GSR seed and harvested 12 sacks from the first crop. Planting some of the harvested seed for his second crop, he was able to harvest 70 sacks, weighing from 45 to 50 kilos each. ―That was double what I‘d usually get from other varieties,‖ he remarked. Aside from being hardy and high-yielding, GSR 8 is an early-maturing variety. ―That was fortunate because we were able to harvest our rice before the typhoon came in November,‖ recounted Mr. Montano.

Coconut farmer-turned rice farmer Felicito Montano shows off the superior grains of GSR 8. When typhoon Haiyan destroyed most of his coconut crops, GSR 8 provided him with a substantial alternative source of income. (Photo by Jessieca Narciso, IRRI) GSR—much better than the average rice ―Although many farmers were hesitant to plant GSR at first, we received really good feedback from them after they gave it a try,‖ Dr. Gergon explained. ―Many farmers told me how great GSR performed in their fields. Some farmers reported that they were able to obtain as much as 11 tons per hectare—2.75 times the average yield of 4

tons in Leyte! Some farmers asked us to try eating the cooked rice. We hadn‘t even tasted GSR then and so we did. It tasted good!‖―I like GSR because its grains are good and weigh considerably heavier than the previous rice grains I tried in the past,‖ said Mr. Montano. ―The crop is tolerant of pests and diseases. Lately, we‘ve also startedshifting to organic fertilizers instead of chemical ones.―I wouldn‘t be surprised if everyone in our village will soon be planting GSR,‖ added Mr. Montano. He has been using GSR 8 for six seasons and hasn‘t shifted to another variety yet and has shared his seed with other farmers, including Efren Lazarte, who planted GSR 8 on 2 hectares of his land. ‖It really performed well even in rainfed fields such as mine,‖ Mr. Lazarte said. ―Growing GSR following the recommended management practices really paid off. Even after three weeks without rain, I was still able to harvest a good crop.‖ ―I have shared these stories with Dr. Ali, but there are still countless farmer successes out there to regale,‖ said Dr. Gergon. Back to taking care of business ―Even though we were badly affected by the typhoon, we were able to improve our livelihood and get back on our feet because of GSR 8,‖ Mr. Lazarte exclaimed. ―Adjusting to the situation was hard at first because I am used to making more money from coconuts. But, I was even able to purchase a hand tractor. Now, it‘s easier for me to grow rice. I‘m really thankful for GSR and I hope that many other farmers will also be able to plant it.‖ Mr. Retales agrees. ―Since our coconuts were destroyed by the typhoon, our rice fields are now our main source of livelihood,‖ he concluded. ―GSR have contributed enormously to the resilience of coastal paddy farming communities to withstand the periodic typhoons that often uproot their very livelihoods,‖ said Dr. Ali. ―I feel immensely rewarded to see our breeding efforts in helping to shape the communities in the fragile environments.‖ Ms. Ferrer is a communication specialist at IRRI. http://ricetoday.irri.org/growing-hope-with-green-super-rice/

No business case for move out of Canberra, RIRDC tells Senate estimates ABC Rural By Anna Vidot PHOTO: The rice industry is one of the largest levy payers into RIRDC, which has proposed moving to Wagga Wagga rather than Albury because it is home to existing rice research programs. (ABC Rural: David Sparkes) MAP: Parliament House 2600

The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) board will meet later this month to discuss options for relocating to Wagga Wagga in southern New South Wales.

In May last year, the Government proposed moving RIRDC to Albury on the Murray River, as part of plans to relocate several government agencies and research bodies out of Canberra.Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce has said the move would help boost regional economies and put researchers closer to the rural industries they supported, but the organisations themselves have been unhappy about the prospect of relocating.RIRDC managing director Craig Burns told a Senate estimates hearing on Tuesday the board would comply with the Minister's directive, but believed there was no business case to support the move."In July last year we wrote to the Minister saying that we didn't see a business case for moving at all, but if we did have to move, there was a stronger case for Wagga Wagga than Albury," Mr Burns said. "That, reflecting the fact that we are a statutory body and the Minister is the minister, we would relocate functions to Wagga Wagga."Mr Burns said he understood both of RIRDC's largest levy payers â€” the chicken meat and rice industries â€” expressed a preference that the organisation stay in Canberra.But he said the Wagga move was preferable because of existing rice research programs that were carried out there.The RIRDC board will meet on February 24 to discuss whether it will move all its operations to Wagga, or whether it will maintain some kind of Canberra presence in addition to a Wagga office.Minister Joyce is yet to comment publicly on his final decision for relocations. Senator questions reasons behind decentralisation Labor senator Doug Cameron asked Assistant Minister Anne Ruston whether the Government planned to make "more decisions made on decentralisation without a business case because it is its policy".Senator Ruston said an "ideology" that prioritised sustainable regional communities was a "driving reason" for decisions that favoured decentralisation."We can spend a fortune doing all sorts of analysis and reviews and reports and investigations into things, but we, fundamentally, as a party, believe that rural and regional Australia is extremely important, and there are certain things that need to go into ensuring the ongoing sustainability of regional Australia," she told the hearing."Fundamentally, we may well disagree as parties on that, but it doesn't make it right or wrong." Disagreement over pilot program looking at different business models The Assistant Minister and Senator Cameron also clashed over a pilot program, announced in the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, to encourage co-operatives, collective bargaining and other "innovative" business models.There is nearly $14 million budgeted for the pilot, and the white paper included a grant for a RIRDC scoping study to investigate how it might look.Tuesday's hearing confirmed that Mr Joyce subsequently asked National Party backbencher Kevin Hogan to also investigate how a co-operative pilot program could look, prompting Senator

Cameron to accuse the Government of pork barrelling in Mr Hogan's NSW north coast electorate. Agriculture Department secretary Daryl Quinlivan rejected that, saying no decision had been made about which regions would share in the $14 million pilot project, and that was because "it's a national program, there's no proposal that the funds would be expended in a single location".Senator Ruston said any change to the White Paper would also have to be approved by Cabinet. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-09/rirdc-fronts-estimates-hearing-in-canberra/7153270

Nagpur Foodgrain Prices Open-Feb 09 Nagpur Foodgrain Prices - APMC & Open Market-February 9 Nagpur, Feb 9 Gram and tuar prices recovered strongly in Nagpur Agriculture Produceand Marketing Committee (APMC) here on good buying support from local millers amid weak supplyfrom producing belts. Continuous hike in gram on NCDEX, fresh rise in Madhya Pradesh pulses,restricted overseas supply and enquiries from South-based millers also helped to push up prices,according to sources. *

FOODGRAINS & PULSES GRAM * Desi gram firmed up again in open market on good seasonal demand from local traders amid tight supply from producing regions. TUAR * Tuar varieties ruled steady in open market here on subdued demand from local traders amid ample stock in ready position. * Udid varieties showed upward tendency in open market here on renewed buying support from local traders amid weak supply from producing regions. * In Akola, Tuar New - 8,000-8,200, Tuar dal New - 12,500-13,700, Udid 12,600-13,600, Udid Mogar (clean) - 14,900-16,700, Moong 8,400-8,600, Moong Mogar (clean) 9,400-9,700, Gram - 4,100-4,200, Gram Super best bold - 5,300-5,700 for 100 kg. * Wheat, other varieties of rice and other commodities moved in a narrow range in scattered deals, settled at last levels. Nagpur foodgrains APMC auction/open-market prices in rupees for 100 kg

FOODGRAINS Available prices Previous close Gram Auction 4,000-4,500 3,900-4,290 Gram Pink Auction n.a. 2,100-2,600 Tuar Auction 7,200-8,190 7,200-8,100 Moong Auction n.a. 6,400-6,600 Udid Auction n.a. 4,300-4,500 Masoor Auction n.a. 2,600-2,800 Gram Super Best Bold 5,900-6,100 5,900-6,100 Gram Super Best n.a. n.a. Gram Medium Best 5,500-5,700 5,500-5,700 Gram Dal Medium n.a. n.a Gram Mill Quality 4,500-4,600 4,500-4,600 Desi gram Raw 4,450-4,500 4,400-4,450 Gram Filter new 4,600-4,900 4,600-4,900 Gram Kabuli 6,000-8,000 6,000-8,000 Gram Pink 6,500-7,300 6,500-7,300 Tuar Fataka Best-New 12,500-13,000 12,500-13,000 Tuar Fataka Medium-New 11,800-12,300 11,800-12,300 Tuar Dal Best Phod-New 11,500-12,000 11,500-12,000 Tuar Dal Medium phod-New 10,500-11,000 10,500-11,000 Tuar Gavarani New 7,500-8,000 7,500-8,000 Tuar Karnataka 8,200-8,500 8,200-8,500 Tuar Black 12,500-13,000 12,500-13,000 Masoor dal best 6,200-6,400 6,200-6,400 Masoor dal medium 5,800-6,000 5,800-6,000 Masoor n.a. n.a. Moong Mogar bold (New) 9,600-10,000 9,600-10,000 Moong Mogar Med 8,900-9,300 8,900-9,300 Moong dal Chilka 7,800-8,800 7,800-8,800 Moong Mill quality n.a. n.a. Moong Chamki best 8,600-8,800 8,600-8,800 Udid Mogar best (100 INR/KG) (New) 16,100-17,000 16,000-17,000 Udid Mogar Medium (100 INR/KG) 13,500-14,500 13,400-14,500 Udid Dal Black (100 INR/KG) 9,700-9,900 9,600-9,900 Batri dal (100 INR/KG) 5,550-5,900 5,550-5,900 Lakhodi dal (100 INR/kg) 4,400-4,600 4,400-4,600 Watana Dal (100 INR/KG) 3,250-3,400 3,250-3,400 Watana White (100 INR/KG) 3,000-3,200 3,000-3,200 Watana Green Best (100 INR/KG) 3,100-3,600 3,100-3,600 Wheat 308 (100 INR/KG) 1,700-1,800 1,700-1,800 Wheat Mill quality (100 INR/KG) 1,700-1,800 1,700-1,800 Wheat Filter (100 INR/KG) 1,650-1,850 1,650-1,850 Wheat Lokwan best (100 INR/KG) 2,200-2,500 2,100-2,500 Wheat Lokwan medium (100 INR/KG) 2,000-2,100 1,950-2,250 Lokwan Hath Binar (100 INR/KG) n.a. n.a. MP Sharbati Best (100 INR/KG) 3,200-3,600 3,200-3,600

MP Sharbati Medium (100 INR/KG) 2,500-3,000 1,500-3,000 Rice BPT best New(100 INR/KG) 2,600-2,800 2,600-2,800 Rice BPT medium (100 INR/KG) 2,000-2,250 2,000-2,200 Rice Parmal (100 INR/KG) 1,800-2,000 1,800-2,000 Rice Swarna best (100 INR/KG) 2,100-2,450 2,100-2,450 Rice Swarna medium (100 INR/KG) 1,800-2,000 1,800-2,000 Rice HMT best New (100 INR/KG) 3,000-3,500 3,000-3,500 Rice HMT medium (100 INR/KG) 2,400-2,800 2,400-2,800 Rice Shriram best New(100 INR/KG) 4,100-4,400 4,100-4,400 Rice Shriram med New(100 INR/KG) 3,700-4,100 3,700-4,100 Rice Basmati best (100 INR/KG) 9,700-11,600 9,700-11,600 Rice Basmati Medium (100 INR/KG) 7,700-8,000 7,700-8,000 Rice Chinnor best New(100 INR/KG) 4,700-4,800 4,700-4,800 Rice Chinnor med. New (100 INR/KG) 4,200-4,400 4,200-4,400 Jowar Gavarani (100 INR/KG) 1,800-2,100 1,800-2,100 Jowar CH-5 (100 INR/KG) 1,700-1,800 1,700-1,800 WEATHER (NAGPUR) Maximum temp. 32.0 degree Celsius (89.6 degree Fahrenheit), minimum temp. 12.8 degree Celsius (55.0 degree Fahrenheit) Humidity: Highest - n.a., lowest - n.a. Rainfall : n.a. FORECAST: Mainly clear sky. Maximum and minimum temperature would be around and 32 and 13 degree Celsius respectively. Note: n.a.--not available (For oils, transport costs are excluded from plant delivery prices, butincluded in market prices.) http://in.reuters.com/article/nagpur-foodgrain-idINL3N15O1FT

APEDA Rice Commodity News International Benchmark Price Price on: 08-02-2016

Product

Benchmark Indicators Name

Price

Chinese first grade granules, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

3500

Chinese Grade A dehydrated flakes, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

4500

Chinese powdered, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

3000

Chinese sliced, CIF NW Europe (USD/t)

2150

Chinese whole, CIF NW Europe (USD/t))

2300

Indian Cochin, CIF NW Europe (USD/t)

2850

Garlic

Ginger

Guar Gum Powder 1

Indian 100 mesh 3500 cps, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

3800

Indian 200 mesh 3500 cps basis, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

1200

Indian 200 mesh 5000 cps, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

2320

Source:agra-net

For more info

Market Watch Commodity-wise, Market-wise Daily Price on 06-02-2016 Domestic Prices Product

Unit Price : Rs per Qty

Market Center

Variety

Min Price

Max Price

Amreli (Gujarat)

Other

1530

2440

Sangli (Maharashtra)

Other

1700

3000

Theni (Tamil Nadu)

Other

1380

1420

Dahod (Gujarat)

Yellow

1525

1550

Sangli (Maharashtra)

Other

1460

1490

Theni (Tamil Nadu)

Other

1440

1500

Thirurrangadi (Kerala)

Other

3200

3400

Taura (Haryana)

Other

2400

2500

Mechua (West Bengal)

Other

2800

3000

Batala (Punjab)

Other

1000

1300

Satara (Maharashtra)

Other

1000

1200

Sainthia (West Bengal)

Other

1160

1250

Jowar(Sorgham)

Maize

Mousambi

Brinjal

Source:agmarknet.nic.in

For more info

Egg

Rs per 100 No Price on 08-02-2016 Product

Market Center

Price

Ahmedabad

395

Hyderabad

365

Nagapur

353

Source: e2necc.com

Other International Prices

Unit Price : US$ per package Price on 08-02-2016

Product

Market Center

Origin

Variety

Low

Onions Dry

High Package: 40 lb cartons

Atlanta

Peru

Yellow

24.50

Chicago

Nevada

Yellow

34.50

Detroit

Peru

Yellow

Cauliflower

24 Package: cartons film wrapped

Atlanta

Mexico

White

13.50

Dallas

California

White

17.75

Detroit

California

White

Grapes

Package: 18 lb containers bagged

Atlanta

Peru

Red Globe

Chicago

Peru

Red Globe

Miami

Peru

Red Globe

Source:USDA

Colombia Set to Import 200,000 MT Above Quota by July; Origin Unclear By Ernesto Baron

BOGOTA, COLOMBIA -- Last week, USA Rice held high level meetings here with representatives of Induarroz (National Federation of Industrial Rice), Fedearroz (National Federation of Rice Producers), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service. Of utmost concern was Colombia's announcement that it would import 200,000 MT of rice this year, above and beyond this year's tariff rate quota import amount of 94,209 metric tons from the United States. El Ni単o impacts have reduced local production here in the United States' third largest export market, and the strong U.S. dollar has reportedly led to Induarroz lobbying the Colombian government to ease import restrictions on milled rice. Specifically, they are requesting the ability to source milled rice from a wide array of countries, some of which do not currently have phytosanitary agreements with Colombia. "Colombia currently has phytosanitary deals with the U.S. and Thailand, among other countries," explained Carl Brothers, chairman of the USA Rice International Trade Policy Committee. "Those agreements took months to obtain, but there is talk of rushing through new agreements in a matter of weeks for countries such as Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to help the millers meet the domestic demand." "Last year when Colombia had a rice shortfall, imports of U.S. milled rice jumped in response," said USA Rice COO Bob Cummings. "The strong dollar is not helping us in Colombia, but the Colombian government's continued tight import restrictions on U.S. paddy are also a barrier to U.S. rice meeting today's exceptional demand in Colombia." Currently, U.S. paddy is restricted to certain mills located near the port of Barranquilla and the mills must follow strict guidelines for destroying the rice hulls due to the presence of tilletia horrida (false smut) in the United States. In a December 2013 report, Colombia's Institute of Agriculture and Livestock (ICA) admitted that false smut actually exists in Colombia as well, and commenced an epidemiological study looking into the prevalence of this disease. The results of the study, which may or may not change the U.S. paddy restrictions, are meant to be announced next month. "While we continue to push for a change on the regulations governing the import of U.S. rough rice, we also urge Colombia to adhere to their phytosanitary standards for all origins," Brothers said. "We expect the same standards on any imports into the country and urge the U.S. government to make certain U.S. rice is not being discriminated against."

Mississippi Rice Council Meeting Thursday

CLEVELAND, MS -- Mark your calendars for the annual Mississippi Rice Council meeting onThursday, February 11, at 10 a.m., at the Bolivar County Extension Office. USA Rice President & CEO Betsy Ward will report on USA Rice activities and Vice President of Government Affairs Ben Mosely will provide a legislative update. Lunch will be served immediately following the meeting.

WASDE Report Released

WASHINGTON, DC -- There are no changes to this month's 2015/16 U.S. rice supply and use projections. The all rice price is lowered $0.40 per cwt at the high end and $0.20 at the low end to a range of $12.50 to $13.30. The long-grain price is lowered $0.20 per cwt at the midpoint and the medium/short-grain price is lowered $0.60 per cwt at the midpoint. The price changes are made based on reported prices to date and expectations regarding prices for the remainder of the market year. Global rice supplies for 2015/16 are reduced 1 million tons on decreased production and lower beginning stocks. The largest production change is a 500,000 ton decline for Thailand on the lack of water available. Brazil is down 100,000 tons on updated government statistics, while crop estimates are lowered for Nicaragua and other Central American countries to reflect drought conditions. Beginning stocks are lowered 400,000 tons primarily due to Vietnam. Global 2015/16 exports are lowered 500,000 tons led by 300,000 ton reductions each for Thailand and Vietnam, both on lower exportable supplies. Global imports are reduced 200,000 tons with the biggest reduction 150,000 tons for Iran. World rice consumption for 2015/16 is lowered 600,000 tons, but remains a record at 483.7 million tons. The largest reduction is for Thailand, which is lowered 300,000 tons on a smaller crop. With the reduction in global supplies greater than the reduction in total use, world ending stocks are lowered 400,000 tons to 89.3 million, the smallest since 2007/08. Read the entire report here.

WTF Happened to Golden Rice? —By Tom Philpott | Wed Feb. 3, 2016 6:00 AM EST

   Email

757

Golden rice packs a beta-carotene punch, but can it deliver in the field? International Rice Research Institute

Like the hover boards of the Back to the Future franchise, golden rice is an old idea that looms just beyond the grasp of reality. 5 Surprising GM Foods

"This Rice Could Save a Million Kids a Year," announced aTime magazine cover back in 2000. Orange in color, the rice is genetically modified to contain a jolt of beta-carotene, the stuff that gives carrots their hue and that our bodies transform into vitamin A. Diets deficient in that key micronutrient are the leading cause of blindness of children in the global south, where rice tends to be a staple grain. A decade and a half since the Time article, golden rice has yet to be planted commerciallyâ€”but it continues generating bumper crops of hype. "Is Golden Rice the Future of Food?" the great hipster-foodie journal Lucky Peach wondered last fall, adding that "it might save millions from malnutrition."

Golden rice has yet to be planted commerciallyâ€”but it continues generating bumper crops of hype. If golden rice is such a panacea, why does it flourish only in headlines, far from the farm fields where it's intended to grow? The short answer is that the plant

breeders have yet to concoct varieties of it that work as well in the field as existing rice strains. This is made all the more challenging in the face of debates over genetically modified crops and eternal disputes about how they should be regulated. After seed developers first create a genetically modified strain with the desired trait—in this case, rice with beta-carotene—they start crossing it into varieties that have been shown to perform well in the field. The task is tricky: When you tweak one thing in a genome, such as giving rice the ability to generate betacarotene, you risk changing other things, like its speed of growth. The Washington University anthropologist and longtime golden rice observer Glenn Stone describes this process as "bringing a superfood down to earth," and it gets little attention in most media accounts. The most serious effort to commercialize golden rice is centered at the Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the globe's most prestigious incubator of high-yielding rice varieties. Launched with grants from the Rockefeller and Ford foundations in 1960, the IRRI spearheaded the Asian part of what became known as the Green Revolution—the effort to bring USstyle industrial agriculture to the developing world. (My review of Nick Cullather's excellent Green Revolution history, The Hungry World, is here.) Today, the IRRI coordinates the Golden Rice Network and has been working to develop a viable strain since 2006. And so far, it's having trouble. On its website, the IRRI reports that in the latest field trials, golden rice varieties "showed that beta carotene was produced at consistently high levels in the grain, and that grain quality was comparable to the conventional variety." However, the website continues, "yields of candidate lines were not consistent across locations and seasons." Translation: The golden rice varieties exhibited what's known in agronomy circles as a "yield drag"—they didn't produce as much rice as the non-GM varieties they'd need to compete with in farm fields. So the IRRI researchers are going back to the drawing board. Via email, I asked the IRRI how that effort is going. "So far, both agronomic and laboratory data look very promising," a spokeswoman replied. But she declined to give a time frame for when the IRRI thinks it will have a variety

that's ready for prime time. Washington University's Stone says he visited the IRRI's campus in the Philippines in the summer of 2015 and heard from researchers that such a breakthrough is "at least several more years" off. The IRRI spokeswoman also declined to comment on Stone's time frame report. That's not a very inspiring assessment, given that researchers first successfully inserted the beta-carotene trait in the rice genome in 2000, and that the technology has been lavished with research support ever sinceâ€”including from the Rockefeller Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (Grand Challenges in Global Health Initiative), USAID, the Syngenta Foundation, and others, according to the Golden Rice Humanitarian Board. Of course, among people who think biotechnology has a crucial role to play in solving developing-world malnutrition, the IRRI's agronomic struggles are compounded by anti-GMO zealotry as well as what it sees as overregulation of GMOs in the global south. David Zilberman, an agricultural economist at the University of California-Berkeley, points out that most developing-world nations, including the Philippines, have adopted the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which stipulates a precautionary approach to introducing new GMO products, including restrictions on how trials are conducted. The Cartagena regime stands in sharp contrast to the much more laissez-faire one that holds sway in the United States, Zilberman says. If the developing world embraced US-style regulation and treated vitamin A deficiency as a medical emergency solvable by golden rice, "it would have become available in 2000," Zilberman says. Based on that premise, he and German agricultural economist Justus Wesseler co-authored a 2014 paper claiming that golden rice has "been available since early 2000" and opposition to it has resulted in "about 1.4 million life years lost over the past decade in India" alone. Such claims abound in pro-GM circles. At a speech at the University of Texas last year, the Nobel laureate British biochemist Sir Richard Roberts accused golden rice opponents of have having committed a "crime against humanity."

According to some researchers, opposition to golden rice has resulted in "about 1.4 million life years lost over the past decade in India" alone. To be sure, opposition to golden rice has occasionally gone overboard. In 2013, activists destroyed one of the IRRI's golden rice field trials in the Philippines, for example. "Anti-GMO activism has set back our work, in that we not only concentrate with our research, but we have to also spend time and resources to counter their propaganda," the IRRI spokesperson told me. But the group makes clear that regulation and activism are only two of the challenges facing golden riceâ€”getting it to perform well remains a major task. Even if and when the IRRI does come up with a high-yielding golden rice variety that passes regulatory muster, it remains unclear whether it can actually make a dent in vitamin A deficiency. As the Washington University's Stone notes, vitamin A deficiency often affects people whose diets are also deficient in other vital nutrients. Vitamin A is fat soluble, meaning it can't be taken up by the body unless it's accompanied by sufficient dietary fat, which isn't delivered in significant quantities by rice, golden or otherwise. According to Stone, only one feeding study (PDF) has ever showed a powerful uptake of vitamin A by subjects eating golden rice. The paper was much cited by golden rice proponents, but Stone says it had a major flaw: The subjects were "well-nourished individuals" who already took in sufficient fat in their diets. The study "demonstrated only that Golden Rice worked in children who did not need it," hewrites. (The study has since been retracted on claims that the author failed to obtain proper consent from the parents of the participants). Meanwhile, as the IRRI scrambles to perfect golden rice, the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency is declining in the Philippinesâ€”according to the IRRI itselfâ€” from 40 percent of children aged six months to five years in 2003, to 15.2 percent in 2008. "The exact reasons for these improvements have not been determined, but they may be the results of proven approaches to preventing vitamin A deficiency, such as vitamin A supplementation, dietary diversification, food fortification and promotion of optimal breastfeeding," the group noted. That drop is part of a long-term trend that involves all of Southeast Asia.

According to a 2015 Lancet study funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, vitamin A deficiency plagued 39 percent of children in the region in 1991 but only 6 percent in 2013—without the help of golden rice. But VAD, as the deficiency's known, remains a huge scourge on the Indian subcontinent and in Africa, the study found, affecting more than 40 percent of children in both regions. Whether golden rice will ever help mitigate that ongoing tragedy won't likely be known for some time. But the technology's hardly the slam-dunk panacea its advocates insist it is. http://www.motherjones.com/tom-philpott/2016/02/golden-rice-still-showing-promise-still-notfield-ready

ASEAN Still a Tough Market for Rice Exports despite AEC KhmerTimes/Sum Manet Tuesday, 09 February 2016 558 views

Cambodian rice exports are finding new markets and rising demand in ASEAN this year, but officials and exporters are not linking this to the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), saying it was too early to tell what impact the regional trade bloc – which took effect at the end of last year – will have on rice exports. Brunei imported 1,974 tons of rice from Cambodia last month for the first time, while Malaysia imported 2,736 tons and Singapore imported 418 tons, according to a report from the Secretariat of One Window Service for Rice Export Formality Hean Vanhan, deputy director of the general department of agriculture at the Ministry of Agriculture, told Khmer Times that rice exports to ASEAN are rising due to the government’s efforts as well as political stability. “One ASEAN country stayed among the top 10 [markets for Cambodian rice last month],” he said, identifying it as Malaysia. He said Brunei imported rice from Cambodia for the first time in January. Mr. Vanhan said the government was working hard to export to the Philippines, but Cambodian rice had to compete with rice from neighboring countries on price in order to enter that highly coveted market. The private sector, not governments, sets the price of rice, Mr. Vanhan added. “Since the AEC has come into effect for a month, we see nothing changing in terms of export of agricultural products. We continue to wait and see,” Mr. Vanhan said.

The AEC, a step towards creating a free trade zone with about 630 million consumers, began at the end of last year. Mr. Vanhan said it was important for exporters to understand that there are other barriers to trade besides tariffs. “We have to clearly understand the ASEAN market is open in terms of tariffs. However, other barriers can be tightened and each government has its own ways to control imports,” he said, pointing to hygiene standards as an example. He said such standards can rise as tariffs fall. Mr. Vanhan said it would be careless for exporters to consider the single market only in terms of falling tariffs. “We have to take care of the quality of our goods, hygiene and standards, and increase productivity,” he explained. Cambodia exported 44,033 tons of rice – both white and fragrant – last month, up 22.6 percent from the 35, 921 tons in the same month last year, according to official figures. Khan Kunthy, CEO of rice exporter Brico, said his company exported about 400 tons of rice in the first month of this year. It went to Europe and the United States, not ASEAN, he said. “We produce only jasmine and fragrant rice and we are not interested in [most countries in the] ASEAN market because they consume white rice,” Mr. Kunthy said, adding that his company was looking to export to China and two ASEAN states: Malaysia, and Singapore.

http://www.khmertimeskh.com/news/21156/asean-still-a-tough-market-for-rice-exportsdespite-aec/

irect-seeding addresses high labor cost – experts POSTED BY WEB TEAM POSTED ON FEB - 9 - 2016

The direct seeding, a crop establishment method where pre-germinated seeds are sown directly onto the soil surface, can help address high labor cost in rice farming according to experts. PhilRice Agronomist Myrna Malabayabas said that the method can be done either by dry or wet seeding and does not require seedbed preparation. â€•The dry direct-seeding method is more commonly used in rainfed and upland areas. It involves sowing of pregerminated seeds on dry soil surface and then incorporating the seeds either by ploughing or harrowing. Wet direct-seeding, on the other hand, is practiced during dry and wet seasons in irrigated and rainfed areas. It is done either through broadcasting or drilling pre-germinated seeds with the use of a drum-seeder on a wet, wellleveled paddy,â€– Malabayabas explained. Direct-seeded rice matures earlier than transplanted rice. Hence, labor requirements and expenses for crop establishment and the time spent on crop management are reduced. A PhilRice study titled Benchmarking the Philippine rice economy relative to major rice-producing countries in Asia, says that P4.42 is spent on labor cost for every kilogram of rice on transplanting while P3.28 is spent on direct-seeding.

Crop establishment method

Labor cost

Labor requirement (1 man-day = 8 hours of work)

Direct-seeding

P3.28/kg of rice

2 man-days/ha

Transplanting

P4.42/kg of rice

25 man-days/ha

In direct-seeding method, farmers can save up to P1.14 on labor cost for every kilogram of rice they produce and 23-man days for every hectare of their field.

In a seminar titled Direct-seeded Rice: Progress, Prospects, and Challenges at PhilRice, Dr. Vethaiya Balasubramanian said that managing weeds is one of the challenges in using the direct-seeding method. The former agronomist at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) explained that weeds germinate simultaneously with rice due to the absence of water that suppresses their growth. Nevertheless, options are available to address the problem. ―Among the ways to manage weeds include narrow spacing and uniform plant population, appropriate water depth and timing, use of weed-competitive varieties, and herbicide rotation and combination,‖ Dr. Balasubramanian said. Malabayabas added that savings from the labor cost can offset the expenses in weed and pest control. ―When the Integrated Crop Management (ICM) is followed properly, the optimum yield is comparable to that of transplanted method,‖ she said. Experts at PhilRice recommend varieties for the direct-seeding method. These varieties are early maturing, resistant to drought, and can attain a maximum yield of at least 6 t/ha.

Recommendation Varieties

Days of Maturity

Maximum Yield

NSIC Rc272 (Sahod Ulan 2)

110 DAS (days after sowing)

6.4 t/ha

NSIC Rc348 (Sahod Ulan 12)

103 DAS

5 t/ha

NSIC Rc346 (Sahod Ulan 11)

105 DAS

6.2 t/ha

For more information about the direct-seeding technology, call or text PhilRice Text Center 0920-911-1398 or email prri.mail@philrice.gov.ph. - See more at: http://www.philrice.gov.ph/direct-seeding-addresses-high-labor-costexperts/#sthash.tp4JaMF6.dpuf

Southeast Department of Agriculture Awarded USDA Rural Business Development Grant February 9, 2016 | Agriculture, Campus, Featured, Home Page, Science/Tech/Ag

- See more at: http://news.semo.edu/southeast-department-of-agriculture-awarded-usda-ruralbusiness-development-grant/#sthash.T4YXelBa.dpuf

Agriculture Research: VEC recommends 14 new rice hybrids By APP Published: February 10, 2016

2SHARES SHARE TWEET EMAIL

ISLAMABAD: The Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC) on Rice of the

Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC) has recommended 14 new rice hybrids to the National Seed Council for their commercial cultivation in the country. Some of the recommended hybrids have yielded up to 106 maunds per acre, according to a statement. Parc Chairman Dr Nadeem Amjad said that with the addition of new recommended hybrids in the national system of the country there would be a significant improvement in the rice production in Pakistan. In the VEC rice meeting sixteen private seed companies presented their rice hybrids proposals. The VEC rejected fifteen (15) rice hybrids due to poor paddy yield, BLB disease susceptibility and poor grain quality. The National Coordinator (Cereal Systems) Parc Mian Abdul Majid appreciated the role of private seed companies for taking interest in rice research and development and working in close collaboration with public sector.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 10th, 2016. Like Business on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation http://tribune.com.pk/story/1043513/agriculture-research-vec-recommends-14-new-rice-hybrids/

Average price of rice down slightly FAO notes softening cost of commodities

SHARES: 121 VIEW COMMENTS By: Ronnel W. Domingo @inquirerdotnet Philippine Daily Inquirer 12:23 AM February 10th, 2016 THE GLOBAL average price of rice declined only marginally as overall food prices fell to a seven-year low in January, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization. Even then, the FAO said ―world rice stocks would need to be drawn down to bridge the expected gap between world production and consumption.‖ The United Nations agency said worldwide consumption of the staple grain was expected to expand by 1.1 percent, which would keep stable the average consumption per person. At the start of 2016, the FAO‘s Food Price Index averaged at 150.4 points—three points or 1.9percent lower than the 153.4 points recorded last December. The index was also 28.5 points or 16 percent lower than the 178.9 points observed in January 2015. More notably, the latest reading was the lowest since April 2009 or close to seven years ago. The index is trade-weighted and tracks prices of five major food commodity groups on international markets, including meat, dairy, cereals, vegetable oils and sugar.

―The main factors underlying the lingering decline in basic food commodity prices are the generally ample agricultural supply conditions, a slowing global economy and the strengthening of the US dollar,‖ the FAO said in a statement. The agency said that as of last month, the Cereal Price sub-index eased by 1.7 percent ―amid ample global supplies and increased competition for export markets, especially for wheat and maize, as well as a strong US dollar.‖ The FAO-administered Agricultural Market Information System added that overall farm conditions for growing rice in the Philippines remained favorable despite the strong El Niño having reached its peak two months ago. ―In the Philippines, the dry-season crop conditions are favorable but developing dry conditions are expected to impact the crop next month due to El Niño,‖ the Amis said. Even then, it said the drought was expected to continue in parts of Southeast Asia where rainfall was already way below normal. In January, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said palay output was expected to ease down by 1.5 percent or 20,000 tons in the first semester of 2016 to settle at 8.2 million tons. The PSA said in its latest production outlook that the volume might decrease as rising yield could fail to offset shrinkage in the area harvested. : http://business.inquirer.net/206904/average-price-of-rice-down-slightly#ixzz40KZyp3yU

02/10/2016 Farm Bureau Market Report Rice High Low Long Grain Cash Bids - - - - - Long Grain New Crop - - - - - -

Futures:

ROUGH RICE High

Low

Last Change

Mar '16 1113.0 1076.0 1113.0 +37.0 May '16 1141.0 1103.5 1141.0 +37.0 Jul '16 1146.0 1142.0 1168.5 +36.5 Sep '16 1183.0 +39.5 Nov '16 1203.5 +39.5

1207.0 +39.5 1207.0 +39.5

Jan '17 Mar '17

Rice Comment Rice futures recovered the losses charted at the beginning of the week. The monthly supply/demand balance sheet was little changed, but the on-farm price was lowered again. The average expected price for long grain is now $11.00-$11.60/cwt, and mid-south medium grain is expected to bring $11.70-$12.30. March has been working lower and is set up for a retest of the recent low of $10.65.

GINNA PARSONS: Asian meatballs sweet and spicy Posted on February 10, 2016 by Ginna Parsons in Food, Lifestyle

GINNA PARSONS

Last week after I wrote about Super Bowl appetizers, I received a flurry of emails from more public relations agencies offering their best dishes for the big game day. Two in particular caught my eye: buffalo pork kebabs with blue cheese dipping sauce and spicy Korean-style meatballs. I forwarded the recipes to my husband, Charlie, with a note that said, “Both of these look good to me.” A few minutes later, I received his response: “Let’s make them both.” Well, I didn’t make them both, but I did make the meatballs Saturday night. I was a little leery of grated pear in meatballs, but I have to tell you that was one of the best parts. I found the pear at Kroger and it was like none I’ve ever tasted: sweet and crunchy (and expensive … one pear was $1.99, but so worth it). In the bin it was called an Asian pear, but on the grocery receipt it says Korean pear. It actually looks more like an apple. These meatballs were sweet, spicy and delicious. I served them over basmati rice with a side of sugar snap peas. Korean-Style Meatballs

Meatballs 1⁄2 Asian pear, peeled, cored and grated 11⁄2 pounds lean ground pork 1⁄2 cup panko Japanese breadcrumbs 3 scallions, thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic, finely minced 2 tablespoons chili paste 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons canola oil Glaze 1⁄2 cup blackberry jam or jelly 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon chili paste 2 tablespoons soy sauce Place grated pear between several paper towels and press to extract any extra liquid.

In a large bowl, combine ground pork, pear, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, chili paste, soy sauce, egg, vinegar, pepper and salt. Use your hands to form meatballs about 11⁄2inches in diameter (you should have about 30 meatballs). In a large sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat. Working in batches, brown meatballs on all sides, then set aside on a baking pan. Continue until all meatballs are browned. Bake meatballs at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes, or until an internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. While meatballs are cooking, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine jam, chili paste, rice vinegar and soy sauce over medium heat for about 5 minutes until glossy. Place hot meatballs in a large bowl and pour glaze over, tossing gently to combine. Serve over brown rice, basmati rice or rice noodles. Ginna Parsons is the Daily Journal’s food/home/garden editor. The Big Melt: The Last Antarctic Explorers Are Seeking Answers Inside the Continent's Ice [Vide

Apeda rice commodity news International Benchmark Price Price on: 08-02-2016

Product

Benchmark Indicators Name

Price

Chinese first grade granules, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

3500

Chinese Grade A dehydrated flakes, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

4500

Chinese powdered, CFR NW Europe (USD/t)

3000

Chinese sliced, CIF NW Europe (USD/t)

2150

Chinese whole, CIF NW Europe (USD/t))

2300

Indian Cochin, CIF NW Europe (USD/t)

2850

Indian 100 mesh 3500 cps, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

3800

Indian 200 mesh 3500 cps basis, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

1200

Indian 200 mesh 5000 cps, FOB Kandla (USD/t)

2320

Garlic

Ginger

Guar Gum Powder

Source:agra-net

For more info

Market Watch Commodity-wise, Market-wise Daily Price on 09-02-2016

Domestic Prices

Unit Price : Rs per Qty

Product

Market Center

Variety

Min Price

Max Price

Aroor (Kerala)

Other

2800

3000

Bonai (Orissa)

Other

2000

Khatra (West Bengal)

Other

2200

2300

Cherthala (Kerala)

Other

2350

2500

Sangli (Maharashtra)

Other

2100

2800

Dahod (Gujarat)

Lokwan

1650

1750

Manjeri (Kerala)

Other

3300

3500

Nagpur (Maharashtra)

Other

700

2200

Mechua (West Bengal)

Other

2600

2800

Jatni (Orissa)

Other

1350

1450

Barnala (Punjab)

Other

1000

1100

Surat (Gujarat)

Other

750

1250

Rice

Wheat

Orange

Onion

Source:agmarknet.nic.in

For more info

Egg

Rs per 100 No Price on 09-02-2016 Product

Market Center

Price

Pune

395

Chittoor

378

Hyderabad

365

Source: e2necc.com

Other International Prices

Unit Price : US$ per package Price on 08-02-2016

Product

Market Center

Origin

Variety

Low

Onions Dry

High Package: 40 lb cartons

Atlanta

Peru

Yellow

24.50

Chicago

Nevada

Yellow

34.50

Detroit

Peru

Yellow

Atlanta

Mexico

White

13.50

Dallas

California

White

17.75

Detroit

California

White

Cauliflower

Package: cartons film wrapped

Grapes

Package: 18 lb containers bagged

Atlanta

Peru

Red Globe

Chicago

Peru

Red Globe

Miami

Peru

Red Globe

Source:USDA