- In June 2025, Bayer AG announced the launch of BICOTA, a new solution targeting stem borer pests, a major threat to rice crops. This launch is expected to strengthen Bayer’s footprint in India’s core rice-producing regions and enhance crop protection practices. By improving yield stability and reducing pest-related losses, BICOTA is likely to contribute significantly to productivity gains in the Indian paddy rice market
- In May 2025, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) introduced two genome-edited rice varieties, marking India’s first such advancement using precision genome editing technology. This breakthrough is anticipated to enhance crop resilience and yield efficiency, supporting the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the Indian paddy rice market, especially in the context of climate change and growing food demand
- In February 2025, BASF initiated registration for Prexio Active, a new insecticide targeting all four rice hopper species, with regulatory submissions made in major Asia Pacific markets. This step underlines BASF’s commitment to providing innovative, sustainable crop protection tools. The product’s potential to reduce pest impact across rice farms is expected to support yield preservation and drive growth across the regional paddy rice markets in Asia
- In April 2024, Vietnam is gearing up to introduce its first low-emission rice product by August of the same year. The Department of Crop Production is set to release foundational standards for these innovative rice products. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan is spearheading the inauguration ceremony for the Office of the Steering Committee for the Sustainable Development Project of 1 million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice cultivation
- In March 2024, Farmers’ Rice Cooperative (FRC), the largest grower-owned rice marketing cooperative in California, announced the launch of Exceedient Foods. This new venture is an ingredient innovation and custom production company that provides a unique vertical integration from field to final product. Exceedient Foods aims to set a new standard of traceability and food safety for the gluten-free industry. The company specializes in creating products that offer exceptional taste, texture, size, shape, and cookability for food brands, manufacturers, and consumers
