Last week, representatives of some 180 rice businesses from 35 countries gathered at the US Rice Producers Association’s 12th Annual Rice Market & Technology Convention (RMTC) in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico to network and learn from leading industry experts. The future of the rice industry was largely the theme of the week, due to the ever-evolving world market situation and production concerns.

The conference consisted of two full days of presentations and activities. Long-time RMTC feature and popular economist Dennis DeLaughter set the tone for the week with his opening presentation titled “What Could Possibly Go Wrong?”, giving an overview of the global economic outlook and its intersection with agriculture. In addition to learning from key industry leaders from throughout the Western Hemisphere, networking was a top priority. Attendees enjoyed two networking receptions sponsored by Texas Rice Council, Louisiana Independent Rice Producers Association, South Louisiana Rail Facility, and Certified Louisiana. Throughout the week, participants also had the opportunity to connect with numerous agricultural businesses and organizations in the sold-out exhibition space. Prior to the conference itself, the Central American Rice Federation (FECARROZ) held its regular board meeting, as has become a tradition throughout the years, thanks to the unique working relationship since 1998.

 “It’s an interesting moment in the rice industry, and we’re all focused on what’s to come,” Marcela Garcia, US Rice Producers Association President and CEO, said in her opening speech. “Our industry is quite literally charged with feeding the world. What a responsibility we have, and that’s even more reason to make sure that we as an industry have the opportunity to connect like this each year.”

The US Rice Producers Association will continue to provide this forum to ensure the rice industry thrives not only this year but in decades from now. Planning is well underway for the 2024 convention, with more details to be announced in the coming months. Visit www.ricemtconvention.com for the latest updates on next year’s event.