Rice 2025/26 almost planted in RS, but prices do not react

Rice planting in Rio Grande do Sul maintains a fast pace and has already surpassed 92 percent of the area planned for the 2025/26 crop, according to data from IRGA cited by Sergio Cardoso, operations director of Itaobi Representações. The regions of Fronteira Oeste and Zona Sul have practically concluded planting, while the Central Depression and the Inland Coastal Plain are advancing more slowly, but still within the expected range to reach the total intention. Despite the good progress in the field, the market remains stalled. Cardoso highlights that prices remain at low levels and that the stored volume is worrying, a result of the combination of strong production in Brazil and Mercosur, stabilized domestic consumption, and unfavorable exchange rates. These factors reduce the pace of exports and pressure industries and retail. If the final area confirms to be close to the current intentions, the sector will face another voluminous cycle, reinforcing the need for price ...