ADB Launches Initiative to Transform Rice Production in Asia
Deal News | Jun 09, 2025 | Asian Development Bank
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a collaborative initiative alongside CGIAR and with support from the Gates Foundation to transform the rice sector across Asia and the Pacific. This ambitious project aims to address critical issues faced by smallholder rice farmers, such as declining productivity, environmental challenges, and food security threats. Through the ADB-CGIAR Clearinghouse Facility, the initiative will promote sustainable and low-carbon rice production practices. ADB is planning to invest up to $1.5 billion by 2030 as part of its commitment to food systems transformation. The targeted regions include Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Pakistan, and the Philippines. The initiative aims to promote the adoption of resilient and low-emission farming methods, improve water management, and enhance nutritional value, ultimately benefiting millions of smallholder farmers in the region.
Sectors
- Agriculture
- Sustainable Development
- Financial Services
Geography
- Asia – The initiative targets several countries across Asia including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Pakistan, and the Philippines, where rice is a staple food and primary agricultural product.
- Pacific – Though primarily focused on Asia, the broader scope of the initiative includes countries in the Pacific region, part of ADB’s operational area.
Industry
- Agriculture – The initiative focuses on transforming the rice sector, a key component of the agricultural industry in Asia and the Pacific.
- Sustainable Development – The project aims to adopt sustainable and low-carbon farming practices, contributing to global sustainable development goals.
- Financial Services – The involvement of ADB and the use of financial investments highlight the financial services aspect of this initiative aimed at developing infrastructure and supporting rural economies.
Financials
- $1.5 billion – Investment amount by ADB through 2025-2030 for the rice sector transformation program.
- $40 billion – ADB's total commitment to food systems transformation by 2030, announced in May.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Development Bank | Leading Institution | Company | A multilateral development bank focused on fostering economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. |
| CGIAR | Collaborative Partner | Company | A global research partnership focused on agricultural research for development. |
| Gates Foundation | Supportive Partner | Charity | A philanthropic organization supporting global health and development initiatives. |
| International Rice Research Institute | Specific Program Contributor | Company | As part of CGIAR, IRRI specializes in rice research and development, contributing innovations to the initiative. |