The Southeast Asian region is currently facing an unprecedented heatwave, leading to record-breaking high temperatures in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. This heatwave is impacting rice production, which is a critical industry in Southeast Asia. Rice production is being affected by the hot weather and droughts, resulting in decreased yields. In Indonesia, rice production has decreased from 31.53 million tons to 30.9 million tons this year. In Malaysia, high temperatures and water shortages have forced farmers to delay planting seasons. Extreme weather has also affected olive oil production in Spain, leading to a decline in production and a surge in prices. The issue of food security is becoming increasingly important, with researchers developing drought-resistant rice varieties and calling for industry transformation.
