SUMMARY

• Global rice market faces largest shortfall in two decades
• High rice prices impacting food security, particularly for Asia-Pacific region
• Unfavorable weather and ongoing conflicts to blame for supply strains

Hey there, fellow foodies! Guess what? Rice, the world's favorite grain, is going through a bit of a tough time. It's affecting the lives of over 3.5 billion people, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, which chows down on a whopping 90% of the world's rice supply.

Fitch Solutions has the tea on the global rice market, and it's not looking good. We're about to witness the largest rice shortfall in two decades come 2023. Importers are shaking in their boots, as this grain drama sends prices soaring to decade-high levels.

These high prices might stick around until 2024, according to a report from Fitch Solutions Country Risk & Industry Research. For many Asian households, rice is the go-to staple, and the price hike is having a real impact on food price inflation and food security.

So, what's causing this rice rollercoaster? Well, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, coupled with some seriously uncool weather conditions in rice-producing countries like China and Pakistan, are the main culprits. Floods and heavy rains are giving these rice crops a hard time. 🌧

In fact, the global rice shortfall for 2022/2023 is predicted to hit 8.7 million tonnes – the largest deficit since 2003/2004! With all these factors in play, it's safe to say that the world's beloved grain is facing some major challenges.

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