Arkansas rice industry leaders met with U.S. Sen. John Boozman on Tuesday to seek additional federal support for growers facing increased imports, higher production costs and continued pressure on farm income.
Representatives of Riceland Foods and Producers Rice Mill discussed the industry’s concerns with Boozman, who represents Arkansas in the U.S. Senate. The cooperatives said heavily subsidized imported rice is creating additional competition for domestic producers while rising costs are making it more difficult for farmers to remain profitable.
Industry concerns
Arkansas remains the nation’s leading rice-producing state, but Boozman said the state has its lowest rice acreage since the 1970s. The decline comes as farmers contend with weak farm economics and increased expenses associated with producing the crop.
- Rice industry representatives cited increased imports and foreign subsidies as competitive pressures for Arkansas growers.
- Rising production costs and weak farm economics are affecting farmers and rural communities.
- Boozman said additional work is needed on federal farm legislation and assistance.
Boozman pointed to recent updates to the federal farm safety net but said Congress needs to do more. He identified passage of Farm Bill 2.0, additional economic assistance and expanded markets for Arkansas rice as priorities in the discussions.
The farm bill sets federal agricultural and food programs, including assistance intended to help producers manage market and production risks. The meeting took place as federal lawmakers prepare to revisit farm legislation and agricultural workforce issues after the Nov. 3 midterm elections.
Leaders from Riceland Foods and Producers Rice Mill said they plan to continue working with federal lawmakers on measures to support farmers and protect the domestic rice industry. The discussions give Arkansas rice producers’ representatives a direct opportunity to press for changes in federal policy as Congress considers the next steps on farm legislation.
