Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

About USA Rice Federation

The USA Rice Federation is a non-profit trade association that represents the entire U.S. rice industry, including growers, millers, merchants, and allied businesses. Based in Arlington, Virginia, United States, USA Rice plays a critical role in advocating for U.S. rice producers, expanding export markets, and promoting the consumption of U.S.-grown rice globally.

With the United States ranking among the top 10 rice-exporting nations, USA Rice Federation is a key driver of industry growth, trade policy advancements, and sustainability initiatives. The organization works in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), international trade bodies, and global food organizations to ensure a competitive and thriving rice industry.

Core Mission and Objectives

USA Rice Federation focuses on enhancing the global competitiveness of U.S. rice through:

1. Market Development and Global Trade Promotion

• Promotes U.S. rice exports in over 120 countries through strategic trade programs.
• Expands market access by negotiating favorable trade agreements and tariff reductions.
• Strengthens international partnerships with importers, distributors, and foodservice operators.

2. Industry Advocacy and Policy Development

• Represents the U.S. rice industry in Washington, D.C., working with lawmakers and regulatory bodies.
• Ensures fair trade policies by addressing non-tariff barriers and international trade disputes.
• Secures farm support programs under the U.S. Farm Bill and other agricultural legislation.

3. Consumer Education and Sustainability Initiatives

• Promotes rice consumption through nutrition awareness campaigns and culinary programs.
• Supports sustainability efforts, including water conservation, soil health, and carbon reduction.
• Encourages research in rice breeding and production efficiency.

Competitive Advantage and Industry Impact

1. Representation of the Entire U.S. Rice Industry – USA Rice advocates for growers, millers, and exporters, ensuring a unified industry approach.
2. Global Market Access and Trade Leadership – USA Rice helps secure export opportunities, ensuring U.S. rice remains competitive worldwide.
3. Sustainability Commitment – U.S. rice production follows environmentally responsible farming practices, reducing water usage by 52% over the past 40 years.
4. U.S. Rice Quality and Reliability – U.S. rice is recognized for high quality, food safety standards, and strict regulatory compliance.
5. Industry Research and Innovation – Investments in rice breeding, biotechnology, and smart agriculture technologies drive higher yields and lower environmental impact.

Financial Strength and Market Position

• The U.S. rice industry contributes over $34 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
• Annual U.S. rice production averages 6 million metric tons, with exports accounting for nearly 50% of total production.
• The United States is the 5th largest rice exporter, shipping over 3 million metric tons per year.
• Top U.S. rice-producing states include Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas.

International Trade and Market Access

USA Rice Federation plays a pivotal role in expanding global rice exports by securing bilateral trade agreements, reducing tariffs, and resolving trade disputes.

Key U.S. Rice Export Markets

• Mexico – Largest importer of U.S. rice, purchasing over 800,000 metric tons annually.
• Japan – Premium market for U.S. medium- and short-grain rice.
• Haiti – One of the fastest-growing markets for U.S. long-grain rice.
• Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru – Key South American buyers of U.S. rice.
• Saudi Arabia and Iraq – Strong demand for U.S. milled rice in the Middle East.
• European Union – Imports specialty and organic rice varieties from the U.S.

Key Export Insights

• The U.S. rice industry exports to over 120 countries, accounting for $2 billion in global trade.
• The U.S. exports approximately 3 million metric tons of rice annually, making it one of the world's largest suppliers of high-quality, sustainably grown rice.
• Recent trade deals with China and the Philippines have increased U.S. rice export opportunities in Asia.

Certifications and Compliance

USA Rice ensures that all U.S. rice exports meet the highest quality, safety, and sustainability standards, including:

• USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Inspection and Certification
• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) Compliance
• ISO 22000 Food Safety Management Certification
• Non-GMO Certification for U.S. Organic Rice
• Fair Trade and Sustainable Agriculture Certifications

These certifications allow U.S. rice exporters to meet global food safety regulations and maintain a competitive edge in international markets.

Industry Recognition and Global Impact

"USA Rice Federation has been instrumental in ensuring the growth of U.S. rice exports. Their advocacy and market expansion strategies have solidified the U.S. rice industry’s position as a global leader." — Rice Exporter, United States.

"Through USA Rice’s sustainability initiatives, the industry has achieved 50% reductions in water usage and greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring a more environmentally friendly rice production system." — Agricultural Economist, USDA.

Major Achievements and Innovations

• Secured major trade agreements with Mexico, China, Japan, and the European Union, enhancing U.S. rice export opportunities.
• Increased global market share for U.S. rice, with a focus on value-added and specialty rice varieties.
• Launched the "Think Rice" consumer education campaign, promoting the health benefits and culinary versatility of U.S.-grown rice.
• Developed sustainable rice farming programs, reducing environmental impact while improving soil health and water efficiency.

USA Rice Federation continues to lead the U.S. rice industry’s global expansion, trade policy development, and sustainability efforts, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness in the international rice market.