ABSTRACT
Investment costs for new irrigation systems in Asia have been steadily increasing, and the benefits from completed systems have often been smaller than expected. Rapid growth in rice production in many Asian countries has reduced or eliminated imports and contributed to a decline in real world rice prices to historical lows. As a result, investments in new irrigation systems have become less attractive, spurring a search for more cost-effective investments. Particular attention has been given by national irrigation authorities and international lenders to the potential benefits from investment in rehabilitation and improved water management in existing systems.
