Cuba, once the top importer of U.S. rice, now buys up to 400,000 metric tons from China and Vietnam. Cuba was top U.S. rice export market until embargo. Now China and Vietnam sell about 400,000 tons to Cuba yearly. Thai traders ask. Export Rice Quality Will plant high-quality export rices on 1.3 million hectares in southern Mekong Delta and 300,000 ha in northern Red River Delta.
Strategy includes better processing and port facilities, and lower rural taxes.
The world's second-largest exporter plans to reduce rice land by 120,000 ha. Many farmers shifting to shrimp farming. Vietnam has signed Opec-type agreement with Thailand. University of Arkansas research will determine if rice producers will have to adjust cultivation practices to avoid problems with herbicide-tolerant weeds. Many overseas buyers won't accept foods made from biotech crops, and some countries require labeling of such foods.