In early October, the Government authorized the importation of 63 000 tonnes of paddy free of tariffs, to be shipped from January 2017. The measure follows the issuance of a decree (number 39889-MEIC) on 1 September that stipulates that the price of the most consumed 20 percent broken (80/20) rice is reduced by CNR 10 (USD 0.02) to CNR 621 (USD 1.10) per kg, following a decline of international prices. Rice is a key staple and the country imports account for approximately half of the domestic consumption requirements. These measures are part of the Government’s efforts to ensure adequate national supplies at lower prices.