Despite concerns of COVID-19, the USRPA enjoyed the opportunity to meet with Mariam Toure, Head of Communication and Rice Promotion for the Republic of Cote D’Ivoire. 

Rice is such an essential basic food in the country and an important farming activity, that the Ivory Coast government has a separate government department titled "Ministry of Rice Promotion."

The country is a major importer and transshipment point to other markets in the region. The construction of new rice mills has created increased capacity, exceeding domestic production. 

Dwight Roberts, President & CEO of the US Rice Producers Association accompanied Ms. Toure to the University of Arkansas Rice Research & Extension Center, near Stuttgart, where they met with Jarrod Hardke and Donna Frizzell. 
Ms. Toure plans to bring a team from the Ivory Coast to the USRPA’s Rice Market & Technology Convention in July.