The rice crop in Panama is beginning to undergo the effects of the meteorological phenomenon "El Niño". In the zone of Chiriquí, where 80% of the national production is concentrated, the persistent droughts will affect rice yield having forced to reduce seeded surface for next harvest.

There are zones on which it has not rained during 22 days. According to information of the Ministry of Farming Development (MIDA), the Consultative Commission of Rice will meet to determine if new cereal imports will be due to approve before end of the year.