Reenergizing the Green Revolution in Rice

Abstract

Rice has historically been the single most important commodity in much of Asia for at least three important reasons. First, rice supplies a large share of caloric intake in many countries, especially for the poor. Second, rice still accounts for an important share of total economic activity in the very poor countries. Thus, it is important not only for rice farmers but also in some instances for the macroeconomy. Third, rice is a political commodity. Food riots will erupt if citizens perceive changes in prices to be too sharp or abrupt. Although the importance of rice is declining in all three of these respects, it will arguably remain the most important commodity in the region for some time to come.