Rice News Today: Japan Rice Prices, Philippines Drive China Seed Exports
By Megha Bajaj
Philipinnes demand drives surge in China’s rice seed exports, USDA says
If we talk about the first rice news today According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), China is projected to export more rice seeds this year due to increased demand from the Philippines and its efforts to strengthen domestic production of the household staple. Furthermore, the USDA stated that it expects China’s rice seed exports to rise by 10 per cent to nearly 38,000 metric tons (MT) for marketing year (MY) 2025-2026 due to strong demand from the Philippines and Pakistan. Moreover, the agency cited that 85 per cent of last year’s shipments of nearly 34, 000 MT of rice seeds were secured by the two countries. When it comes to the Philippines, higher purchases of hybrid rice seeds are fueling increased demand from China, along with the government’s efforts to boost domestic production and cut reliance on foreign shipments of milled rice. In addition, the USDA mentioned that the Philippine government continues to provide subsidies for high-quality hybrid rice seeds to boost rice production and strengthen food security, which has generated strong demand for China’s hybrid rice seeds. The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) stated in a project briefer that hybrid rice seeds, which are developed from two genetically dissimilar varieties with superior quality, yield 15 to 20 per cent more than traditional inbred rice genotypes. Interestingly, ATI cited that such seeds have shown their ability to perform better under adverse conditions like drought and salinity, which are common threats to rice-growing areas across the country. The country has primarily resorted to importation as demand for rice continues to outpace domestic production. However, as the USDA noted, initiatives such as the government’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) are expected to enhance farm productivity.
Japan Rice Prices Could Ease to “Fair” ¥3,250 per 5 kg by June, Says Expert
Now, we will have a look at the second rice news of the day concerning Japan’s retail rice prices which may fall to a fairer level of about ¥3,250 per 5 kg by June, according to a rice market expert. Notably, Japan’s retail rice prices have remained high, with a 5-kilogram bag averaging around ¥4,188 ($27) in late January. Furthermore, the expert said that while domestic production has improved. The factors behind the improved domestic production could be the larger recent harvest, lingering supply-demand imbalances, and limited surplus stocks. In the aftermath, limited surplus stocks have kept prices elevated. Apparently, if distributors and retailers raise stock and decrease inventory later in the year, this could encourage a price correction toward that fair target.
Rice Master Global Expands Footprint into East Africa
And, the last rice news today is about a global rice manufacturer that has expanded its Footprint into East Africa. According to reports, Rice Master Global Ltd has announced a strategic expansion into East African markets. Notably, Rice Master Global Ltd is a major global rice manufacturer and exporter. The East African Markets include Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Comoros, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Interestingly, these nations are building on their strong presence in West Africa. On the other hand, these move intends to tap growing demand in the region by setting up distributor networks. Not only this, it offers exclusive territory partnerships, and delivers premium rice varieties such as basmati, jasmine, and parboiled rice. Furthermore, the company cited that its robust logistics, quality control, and competitive pricing have triggered its success and will enhance its East Africa growth strategy. Particularly, this expansion reinforces the firm’s vision of becoming a trusted rice brand across Africa and strengthening food supply chain collaboration between Asia and Africa.