미국 쌀 insights

The Weekly Weather and Crop Bulletin, released on Tuesday (9) by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), reported that "45% of the country's rice had been harvested by September 7, seven percentage points less than last year, but nine points ahead of the five-year average."

(Gumi = Yonhap News) Reporter Kim Hyun-tae = Gyeongbuk Gumi City announced that the "13th Agricultural Entrepreneur Unity Convention 2025" was held at Seonsan Gymnasium on the 8th. Around 1,000 people, including farmers and politicians, attended the event. The event featured commendations for meritorious service, the reading of a resolution pledging agricultural development and the production of safe food, and a performance cutting rice cakes to wish for a bountiful harvest. In addition, local agricultural products such as "Ilseoneungpum rice," melons, potatoes, honey, and specialty processed foods such as Jang-ryu, sikhe, yogurt, and Gumi millet were on display. Jo Sung-mun, Chairman of the Gumi City Federation, said at the event, "Although it is a difficult time with the climate crisis, labor shortages, rising fertilizer prices, and falling prices, I hope today's convention will be a place to give comfort and courage to farmers." Kim Jang-ho, Mayor of Gumi City, emphasized, "This year, we have organized a record-high agricultural budget of 166.8 billion won, an increase of 17.3 billion won compared to last year, and are expanding support. We will continue to do our best to strengthen the competitiveness of Gumi City's agriculture and rural areas."

Naju City announced the first U.S. export of 2025 Wonhwang peaches, marking a new step in the development of the global market. On the 18th, Naju City held a U.S. export shipment ceremony at the Budeokdong branch of the Naju Peach Farmers Cooperative. The city plans to supply 110 tons of Wonhwang peaches to major U.S. distribution networks, maintaining its position as the nation's top exporter. This move aims to increase farmers' income and accelerate the expansion of overseas markets. The ceremony was attended by Naju Mayor Yoon Byeong-tae, Jeonnam Province International Cooperation Officer Shin Hyun-gon, NH Agribusiness Trade Representative Moon Sang-cheol, Naju Peach Farmers Cooperative Chairman Lee Dong-hee, City Council Chairman Lee Jae-nam, NH Jeonnam Head Office Director Lee Kwang-il, and NH Naju Branch Director Je Hae-joong, among others, totaling over 30 people.