Input use is low, but is generally higher in lowland systems than in upland systems, particularly in irrigated areas which have been the focus of extension service efforts and development projects. Improved varieties, particularly Bouak 189, have been widely adopted where water control is adequate. Production opportunities Continued expansion of rice area in lowland and irrigated systems, together with continued intensification within those systems, offers the highest potential for increasing rice production. Current government objectives include rehabilitating existing irrigated systems and developing additional inland valley swamps. These investments are to be complemented by improving linkages between research and farmers through a restructured and unified extension service.
Current research focuses on varietal improvement, agronomic practices, and seed production.