The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Tao Corp. intent to sell elite hybrid rice in the country.
The Tao Commodity Trader Inc. (TCTI) signed a deal with IRRI to exclusively sell hybrid rice. These rice hybrids are Mestiso 71, Mestiso 77, and Mestiso 89.
Said rice hybrids are bred for higher yield, better quality, and improved durability.
“TCTI is an industry-respected and established group that can help bring some of our innovations to our main clients, the countless farmers and consumers who depend on the rice sector for their food, nutrition, and livelihood,” IRRI chief-of-staff Peter Brothers said.
The agreement was made possible through the IRRI-led hybrid rice development consortium which has a key role in the development of elite hybrids suited to different agro-climatic conditions.
“This partnership could not have come at a more opportune time when our rice farmers are facing very tough times due to challenges on several fronts, from climate change to unfavorable market conditions,” TCTI chief executive officer Julio Sy said.
Under the agreement, TCTI will fully invest in scaled-up development, production, and distribution of seeds, as well as meeting seed sales objectives, for the three hybrid rice varieties.
With additional report from: philstar.com
Photo sources: irri.org, scientificamerican.com, youngzine.org
