NSW to Allow Rice Producers Direct Access to Overseas Markets

Australia’s most populous state is looking to open up its rice export market by allowing producers to negotiate directly with international buyers. Traditionally, the rice growers in the fertile Northern Rivers region were required to send their produce to SunRice, a multinational and one of the world’s largest rice food companies. Aside from the hassle of transporting the rice 800 kilometres south to where SunRice is based, existing arrangements also prevent growers from entering their own agreements. The New South Wales (NSW) government will introduce a bill to Parliament in May, calling for the development of a new rice export marketing and trade arrangement for the Northern Rivers. The government will also push to improve the rice industry in southern NSW....