The USA grows so much rice that we also export it. Don't know where the other guy get's his information.
Yes the rice and the seed are the same but it isn't processed for the kind you grow. Below is a link to get some.

I live in Missouri a rice producing state right next to Arkansas.
The Mississippi delta has proven to be an ideal location for rice and most rice in the U.S. is grown in that area. Arkansas is the number one producer of rice in the U.S. today. Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and Missouri also produce rice. The old flood basin for the Sacramento River in Northern California has also proven to be a good location for rice, and California is now the number two producer of rice in the U.S.
1. Arkansas
2. Louisiana
3.Mississippi
4. Texas
5.Missouri
6. California (now the 2nd largest producer in th USA)
http://www.sagevfoods.com/MainPages/Rice101/Production.htm#US

The rice you need for growing is not the same as in the store but this link provides a way to try it.
Grow Rice in a Bucket
How would you like to grow your own rice? it's easy and fun!
Your Mission…
Buy rice seeds! These two companies sell the kind of rice seeds you'll need to grow your rice. ((((Tell them that Kidsregen.org sent you!)))))

Kitazawa Seed Co.
Call (510) 595-1188
or email: Email this person

Garrett Farms
Call (979) 922-8405
***or email: [email]garrettfarms@usa.net****[/email]
http://www.kidsregen.org/howTo.php?section=inGarden&ID=4