Cepea, 6/03/2025 – In February, the CEPEA/IRGA-RS paddy rice index (Rio Grande do Sul, 58% whole grains, cash payment) posted an accumulated decline of 10,6%, averaging R$ 95,70/sc of 50 kg, 4% below January and a sharp 15,2% lower than February/24. According to Cepea surveys, prices are at their lowest nominal levels since August/23. Cepea researchers explain that buyers continue to signal difficulty passing on prices to wholesalers and retailers, as well as awaiting lower prices as the new crop arrives in greater volume. On the sellers' side, the Center also notes that, despite low product availability, the need for cash to fund operations, clear stocks, and fear of further declines led some market participants to give in to buyers' requests for lower prices and/or extended payment terms. Source: Cepea (www.cepea.esalq.usp.br)