Press Release 2008

Supply of rice in Hong Kong
Monday, March 31, 2008

In response to media enquiries regarding the supply of rice in Hong Kong, a spokesman for the Trade and Industry Department today (March 31) gave the following reply: 

There is a sufficient supply of rice in Hong Kong. There is no need for the public to worry.

Under the Rice Control Scheme, total import quantity undertaken by rice stockholders for the import period from April 1 to June 30, 2008 is around 92,400 tonnes. This import quantity is higher than that of the corresponding period last year and the first quarter of this year. 

According to the Rice Control Scheme, rice stockholders should keep a reserved stock sufficient for consumption by the population for 15 days. In case of emergencies and upon the request of the Government, stockholders have to sell the reserved stock in the Hong Kong market to ensure that there is a stable supply of rice.

We understand that recent price increase in Thai rice is mainly attributable to exchange rate changes and global shortage of rice supply. The department will continue to closely liaise with the trade and monitor the situation.

Ends