US President Donald Trump raised concerns over alleged rice dumping by foreign countries during an interaction with Meryl Kennedy, CEO of Kennedy Rice Mill. Kennedy warned that the US rice industry, particularly in the southern states, is facing an “anti-competitive” crisis due to record imports, naming India, Thailand and China as major contributors. She said Puerto Rico, once a major market for US rice, has shifted almost entirely to foreign imports due to heavy subsidies and unfair trade practices. Trump questioned why India was allowed to dump rice and directed aides to look into the issue, calling it “easy to settle.” Kennedy described rice as more than a commodity, calling it a strategic asset and even a national security issue, while urging the administration to strengthen tariffs and ensure fair trade. Trump acknowledged the concerns and asked for a detailed list of countries involved.
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