Rice is a staple food for a majority of the world’s population. Each year, close to 450 million tonnes of milled rice is produced, with over 50% of the production taking place in Asia, mainly due to favorable climate conditions and low costs of production. China and India are the two biggest producers, responsible for over half of the global output. They are closely followed by Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Pakistan and Myanmar. International trade in rice is about 30 million tonnes, largely taking place between Asia and Africa. Africa accounts for over 30% of the world’s rice imports.
Rice is categorized as short grain, medium or long grain, depending on the shape and size of the grain. It is then further subdivided according to its preparation. Cargo rice my consist of about 80% of white or polished rice and 20% of unprepared paddy or brown rice. Being transported in this mixing ration allows the rice to remain drier, reducing its susceptibility to damage.
Rice is a sensitive product and there are many considerations and precautions that must be taken when dealing with this cargo to ensure loss prevention and minimize liability.