Government officials and experts from 40 countries are gathering in the Philippines to swap ideas on how to bring down soaring rice prices. Severe weather and export restrictions imposed by some nations have caused the cost of the staple to jump.

Some 1,800 representatives, mainly from Asia and Africa, are attending the International Rice Congress in Manila. The forum held every four years started on Monday.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for cooperation to ensure global food security. His country is one of the world's biggest rice importers.

He said in a speech, "This congress comes at an opportune time for us to compare and reevaluate policies, discuss ideas for enhancing global rice value chains and introduce better practices and technologies."

Global rice prices are at their highest level in 15 years. This comes after the world's top exporter India suspended overseas shipments from July as its rice production has been hit by scorching heat and torrential rain.

Participants stressed the importance of scientific approaches to tackle the problem.

A Philippine official from an international research institute said science will enable the development of "good rice varieties that can address the climate issues that we are facing now."

Trade restrictions and market trends are high on the agenda. Participants will also discuss research on the use of new technologies in agriculture, such as drones and artificial intelligence.

The forum runs through Thursday.