This is an Open RICE Letter
by Kenneth Graves, Chairman
Arkansas Rice Growers Association
Published September 14, 2026
We are still hearing the problems causing the farm economy woes of the rice farmers in our state. The War with Iran, (high fuel and fertilizer prices), low commodity prices, Section 31 investigation where some countries are subsidizing their farmers more than allowed under the WTO (World Trade Organization), some stories where blackbirds ate the seed rice after it was planted (a few farmers had to replant 400-500 acres because of that), local mill drying facilities being closed for the 2026 rice harvest because of a loss of rice acres. We will now dive into the other problem that doesn’t get talked about as much.
U.S. Long-Grain Rice Industry: AT A CRUCIAL CROSSROADS
by Karen Ott Mayer
The U.S. long-grain rice industry currently faces an unprecedented challenge, as many segments of the industry, from producers to buyers, acknowledge the quality of U.S. long-grain rice could be headed to a point where the country may no longer be considered the gold standard across the globe. While the industry has recovered from the GMO contamination problems of 2006, it now finds itself faced with perhaps an even larger hurdle as buyers continue to echo a strong sentiment of dissatisfaction. Market share for U.S. long-grain, milled rice has weakened and competition from international players has stiffened, driving many voices across the industry to ask one question: Why?
ARGA proudly serves all US rice producers who want to get paid for the premium crop they already grow.
Rice Checkoff Tax Vote
They keep telling us what a great job they are doing with our rice checkoff tax money. We want the opportunity to tell them how we think they are doing.
THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RICE CHECKOFF VOTE SINCE 1996!!
All the details of who, why, when, and exactly how the ripoff works.
CLICK HERE →Rice Checkoff Ripoff
Everything the Rice Industry does not want you to know, and it's A LOT!
CLICK HERE →Why Is The China Market So Important?
Click the buttons below for more information.
The Arkansas Rice Growers Association is the collective voice of rice growers in Arkansas.
Organized in 2000, the ARGA represents independent voluntary members by leading growers on issues affecting the viability of their business and communities.
Despite the success of the rice industry into one of the most successful rural industries in Arkansas, today's rice growers more than ever need an association that solely represents the interests of the rice farmer and can face the risks and challenges that a farmers takes to make a living.
Goals of ARGA
To provide equal opportunity for all Arkansas rice growers.
To promote market development and market maintenance for domestic sales and export of rough, brown, and milled rice as a united voice and advocate for the Arkansas rice farmer.
To bring foreign delegations to Arkansas for the purpose of promoting trade.
To educate and inform about Arkansas grown rice -- its virtues, dependability, availability, quality, and quantity.
To provide a voice for rice farmers at the government level on legislative matters that directly affect them.
To provide accountability within the industry
To get YOU more money for YOUR rice!
Arkansans Representing Rice Growers Who Want To Make More Money All Over The United States
