The significant decline in rice prices is having a severe economic impact on agricultural businesses, already severely impacted by rising production, energy, and management costs due to the challenging international environment and also under pressure from large imports from India. This worrying situation also affects rice growers in the province of Oristano. For this reason, Coldiretti has today sent a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture requesting the urgent convening of the National Rice Supply Chain Committee, already established within the ministry, in light of the grave situation affecting the national rice sector.

"Rice-growing companies are facing an extremely difficult period," the letter reads, "which risks compromising the economic sustainability of the sector and the continued production of a strategic crop for Italian agriculture and entire rice-producing regions."

For this reason, the Organization believes it is essential to immediately engage in dialogue between all stakeholders in the supply chain and the relevant institutions. The goal is to analyze the current market situation and price trends, evaluate urgent measures to support agricultural businesses, and identify concrete tools to ensure the sector's continued viability.

Among the proposals put forward by Coldiretti and outlined in the letter is "the activation of a specific call for proposals for the purchase and distribution of Italian rice for the poor. This measure would simultaneously support families in need and Italian agricultural businesses, promoting a product that is a symbol of Made in Italy agri-food."

The letter also requests, within the resources provided by the "Coltiva Italia" plan, the establishment of a fund dedicated to supply chain contracts for the rice sector. This fund will support investments, production planning, supply aggregation, and the valorization of Italian rice, ensuring greater economic stability for agricultural businesses and strengthening the competitiveness of the entire supply chain.

"The crisis affecting the sector requires rapid and concrete responses," Coldiretti emphasizes. "Rice represents a strategic crop for the country, for the agricultural economy, and for the protection of unique territories in terms of environment, landscape, and production. For this reason, it is essential to initiate institutional dialogue as soon as possible and implement effective measures to support businesses and ensure the future of the sector."