MEMPHIS, TN – USA Rice continued its long-standing presence at the Mid-South Farm & Gin Show, held February 27–28 at the Renasant Convention Center here, welcoming a steady stream of rice producers and industry partners from across the region. In a year marked by tight margins, volatile markets, and ongoing economic uncertainty, the opportunity to connect face-to-face proved especially meaningful.
Rice producers from Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Louisiana, and even Tennessee stopped by the USA Rice booth to visit with staff. The show floor buzzed both days with conversations focused on improving competitiveness and navigating the current farm economy.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden was also in attendance, engaging with agricultural leaders and reinforcing USDA’s focus on the challenges facing America’s farmers.
“Even in tough times, it’s critical that we come together,” said Kelly Robbins, executive director of Arkansas Rice, who helped staff the neighboring Arkansas Rice booth. “As we evaluate travel and outreach in this economic climate, every event must deliver real value for farmers — and this one has provided an important opportunity to hear directly from producers and partners about what they need most.”
From policy discussions to market outlook conversations and simply reconnecting with colleagues, USA Rice’s participation once again reinforced the value of showing up — year after year — for the producers of the U.S. rice industry.