India is the worldęs largest rice exporter and it imposed a ban on some white rice exports in July. The government also added a 20% duty on basmati rice in August to stop illegal shipments.
The ban has made global supplies tighter. Many countries are looking to grow more rice and to become more self-sufficient. Experts say hybrid rice can raise yields by about 30% and that farmers need better irrigation, research and fertiliser support.
The Philippines plans to give hybrid seed and fertiliser to many irrigated farms and to use digital tools to adapt to climate. The programme will continue with or without the export ban.
Difficult words
- exporter — A country or company that sells goods abroad
- impose — To officially put a rule, tax or lawimposed
- duty — A tax paid on some imported or exported goods
- hybrid — A plant made from two different varieties
- yield — The amount of crop produced on a farmyields
- irrigation — Supplying water to land for growing crops
- fertiliser — Material added to soil to help plants grow
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think farmers in your area should use hybrid seed? Why or why not?
- What support from the government would help farmers grow more rice?
- How could digital tools help farmers adapt to climate?
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