Bangladesh joins those banning rice exports

Bangladesh has banned export of rice, except for aromatic varieties, until Nov. 7

The Dhaka-based Daily Star newspaper reports that the ban is effective Wednesday and that the country joins Thailand, Vietnam, India and Brazil in banning exports.

The paper quoted an unnamed commerce ministry official as saying the move was designed to ensure food security and was imposed because some exporters were cashing in on the government's lenient rice export policy despite shortages at home.

The paper said Bangladesh spent $600 million on rice imports in the eight months ending February to meet demand after being hit by floods and a cyclone last year. 

Source: American Shipper