The article highlights the ongoing rice harvest in Italy, with initial estimates suggesting that production may match 2023 levels, despite a 7% increase in sown land due to adverse weather conditions caused by climate change. This weather has led to delayed planting and potential negative impacts on the production of certain varieties. The majority of Italy's rice production is concentrated in the North, but the sector faces unfair competition from foreign imports, particularly from countries like Cambodia that do not adhere to EU environmental, social, and health standards. There are concerns about the potential recognition of Basmati rice from India and Pakistan as Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) denominations, as it could exempt imported PGI basmati rice from duties, negatively impacting the Italian rice market and the national rice supply chain. Additionally, Coldiretti urges consumers to check for the Italian origin of 'Risotto rice' and calls on the EU to ensure that all products entering the union meet similar standards to protect the local rice industry.