Paddy rice — grain still enclosed in its outer husk — is the least-processed tradeable form of rice and is subject to tariff-rate quota treatment under US import schedules, making quota timing and origin documentation critical for importers. Because the husk is intact, moisture content and mold risk are primary quality concerns during ocean transit, and shipments must comply with FDA prior-notice requirements as an imported food commodity. Rough rice is typically destined for domestic milling operations rather than direct consumer use, so buyers are usually large-scale processors who track TRQ fill rates closely.

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