Is global rice consumption continuing to exceed production?
World 2004/05 rice production is projected at 397.4 million milled tons, nearly 10.5 million tons above 2003/04. World consumption in 2004/05 is estimated at 413 million metric tons compared to 2003/04s 412.9 million metric tons. Assuming no major global climatic event, global production is closing the gap on consumption. Note the world is over due some climatic trauma, so developing global weather patterns need to be watched closely.
