Industry News

Rice Industry Awaiting Details on Partial Ag Deal with Japan

Rice Industry Awaiting Details on Partial Ag Deal with Japan

By Sarah Moran, USA Rice

ARLINGTON, VA — This past weekend, reports emerged regarding a Japan-U.S. trade deal covering agriculture, automobiles, and digital trade.  Initial reports indicate that rice was left out of this deal.

“While we are certainly disappointed to hear that rice wasn’t included in last week’s discussions, we remain committed to working with the U.S. government to realize improved rice trade,” said Charley Mathews, Jr., chair of USA Rice.  “At this point, we’re faced with a 379 percent tariff on U.S. rice going into Japan which translates to a lack of consumer access.”

Japan is the third largest export market for U.S. rice and for decades, USA Rice has pushed for an improvement in the quality and quantity of access for U.S. rice in Japan.  While Japan imports more than $200 million of U.S. rice, much of that rice does not reach the Japanese consumer due to Japan’s import policies and anticompetitive practices.

“Rice remains one of the most manipulated and protected commodities around the world, and Japan is no exception,” said Bobby Hanks, chair of the USA Rice International Trade Policy Committee.  “A comprehensive trade deal is the avenue in which to see improved commercial access to this vital market that has demonstrated an interest in U.S. rice.”

As Japan and the U.S. continue trade discussions, USA Rice will support the U.S. government in adequately advocating for U.S. rice farmers and the $34 billion rice industry that they represent.

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

The California Warehouse Association (CWA) has shared the following informational letter and best practices flyer:

As the new harvest season approaches, we hope this letter finds you well. This letter is a friendly reminder about the importance of maintaining the highest standards in keeping foreign materials out of trucks and bins. 

Our collective efforts to ensure purity and quality of the rice we handle are crucial not only for the success of our individual operations, but also for upholding the reputation of the entire California rice industry. Contaminants and foreign materials can compromise the quality of our product, lead to costly issues down the line, and impact our relationships with customers and partners. 

Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

1. Regular Inspections: Implement routine checks to ensure that all trucks and bins are clean and free from any residual materials before loading. A thorough inspection can help prevent cross-contamination. 

2. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all staff involved in the handling and transportation of rice are well-trained on procedures for maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contamination. 

3. Clear Protocols: Maintain clear and effective protocols for addressing any issues that arise, and make sure these protocols are communicated and followed consistently. 

4. Maintenance: Regularly maintain and clean all equipment and facilities used in the handling and storage of rice to prevent contamination. 

Our shared commitment to these practices will not only help us maintain the high standards of our product but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient harvest season. We ask that you share these reminders with your growers and farm bins. A one-page flyer is included with this letter that can be easily distributed. The flyer can be downloaded here

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your ongoing dedication to the quality of California’s rice industry. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a successful and bountiful harvest season!

Drew Becker 
CWA President

For more information please contact the California Warehouse Association at (916) 441-1149 or email brooke@agamsi.com.