Global Rice Production Expected to Fall in 2012

Global rice paddy production is expected to be lower than originally expected this year, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

FAO cites less monsoon rains in India contributed to the fall of the rice production forecast.

According to FAO, rice production is expected to total 724.5 million tonnes which is a 7.8 million tonne downward revision compared to the original forecast in April.

“The downward revision was mainly the result of a 22 per cent lower-than-average monsoon rainfall in India through mid-July, which is likely to reduce output in the country this season.” – FAO

Production forecasts were also reduced for Cambodia, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the Republic of Korea, Nepal and Taiwan, Province of China.

FAO reports that some countries are expected to see production gains particularly China, Indonesia and Thailand, along with other Asian nations.

In addition, prospects are also good for Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, Peru and Venezuela.

FAO expects that Asia, the world’s leading rice producer – will reap 657 million tonnes in 2012, up 0.4 per cent from last year.

In Asia, China, India, Thailand, Vietnam are among the major rice producers.

Reports say India is the second largest rice producer in the world accounting to 103 million tons for 2011-12. It is reportedly estimated to consume around 95 million tons.