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09 June, 2025 : The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) have jointly launched a new initiative to boost investment in sustainable and low-carbon rice production across Asia and the Pacific. Supported by the Gates Foundation, the initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of millions of vulnerable farmers while addressing climate change and ensuring food security.
On 9 June 2025, ADB announced the formal launch of the initiative through a press release from its headquarters. The project will initially be implemented in Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines, Cambodia, and China. Between 2025 and 2030, ADB plans to invest up to $1.5 billion (approximately BDT 180 billion) to enhance sustainable rice production, adapt to climate change, improve water management, and reduce carbon emissions.
ADB Vice-President (Sectors and Themes) Fatima Yasmin stated, “Rice is critical to Asia’s food security, providing over a quarter of the region’s total calories and more than half in Southeast Asia. However, rice farming faces threats from climate change and environmental degradation. Through this initiative, we will promote resilient, high-yield, and low-emission technologies, sustainable water use, inclusive market systems, and improved nutrition.”
Yvonne Pinto, Director General of the International Rice Research Institute, emphasized that the initiative will strengthen the strategic partnership between ADB and CGIAR, fostering sustainable transformation in rice production and supporting millions of farmers. The project aligns with ADB’s broader commitment of $40 billion to transform food systems by 2030.
AI/MR
