Improved rice varieties (IRVs) play a significant role in establishing food security and improving livelihood in the Global South since its introduction in the 1960s. However, the adoption of new IRVs has remained relatively low. This low adoption poses a challenge to rice-producing and consuming countries as they are increasingly threatened by production shortages, malnutrition, and poor rice quality. Many empirical studies have attempted to identify the determinants influencing the adoption of IRVs by distinguishing the characteristics between adopters and non-adopters. This review showed a consensus on the important determinants influencing the adoption of IRVs in the Global South. Findings synthesized from 99 studies suggested that variables (farm size, education, information access and farm location) examined extensively are not necessarily the most important determinants of adoption when undertaking a weighted analysis. Terrain, source of seed and technology-related attributes (perceived yield, maturity, ease of use, marketability and technical efficiency) are more important determinants of adoption, with determinants changing according to adoption type (probability or intensity of adoption), variety type and region. The recommendations for future adoption studies include: incorporating more technology-specific variables, increasing research for overlooked regions and variety types, shifting away from predominant static analysis by capturing the dynamics of the adoption process, and considering the potential biases in analyses. This review will facilitate the development of targeted interventions and policies that promote IRV adoption in the Global South.
