Many people think rice is only grown in Asia. But it is also grown in Italy and parts of Australia, too. The Italian rise is different. It is called Arborio rice and it is the only variety of rice you can use if you want to produce authentic Italian Risotto, not eaten much in Southern regions but common in the northern and mountainous central regions. It is sort of sticky and flight and absorbs a lot of liquid. The Asian Rice's are different and of many varieties eg Jasmine , ued for Chinese cuisine, Basmati, used for good Indian curries, short grain Japanese rice needed for making proper Sushi etc. You need the correct rice or it can ruin the dish you want to cook . I often wonder how rice growing started in Northern Italy and why there, in one region,mainly. Some say the same way as Chinese noodles eventually became Italian spaghetti...Who knows? But I like risotto. Made with different flavours. Mushrooms, bacon and cheese are nice, or with artichokes.... But not too much, as it is very calorie rich.That work growing rice in all that water would be hell.