For those concerned about rice and grain production, according to the most recent USDA Rice Outlook U.S. rice production at the end of 2008 looked uncertain and exports were expected to increase during 2009. As of this being written, it looked like Egypt and India were expected to lift their bans on exporting.

The 2008 export had a great deal to do with the higher prices both in the U.S. markets and internationally.

What can we expect for this year?

So far it looks like prices are still going to be higher than last year for long and medium grain. With supplies of medium and short grain rice slowing because of concern over water availability in California for 2009 planting.

Mother nature has played a part in the less than normal growing season, with first very dry conditions and then with heavy snow and rains in January and February which delayed planting.

Another factor is the economy, which is prompting people to find alternatives to more expensive foods and who may turn to rice, which is in comparison, low cost, nutritious and has a longer shelf life, and may result in higher consumption by the growing U.S. population.

For the balance of the year we anticipate higher domestic consumption, higher prices, lower domestic availability than 2008, and higher imports.

Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Delta Farm Press (http://deltafarmpress.com/rice/production-imports-1222/)