Portugal is making strides in rice genetic improvement to develop new varieties that are better adapted to the soil and climate conditions of its rice-producing regions. The initiative is led by INIAV, Cotarroz, and DRAP Centro, with the goal of enhancing productivity, resistance to diseases and climate change, and incorporating sustainability characteristics like water efficiency. The program aims to address the challenges posed by climate change and align its objectives with the sector's needs, providing valuable information for farmers, technicians, researchers, and policy makers in Portugal.