$3B allocated for rice farmers’ subsidies; verification completed; payments to begin next week – Agri Ministry

See full statement from the Ministry of Agriculture: 

In keeping with the commitment made by His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in April this year, the Ministry of Agriculture will commence the distribution of cash subsidies to rice farmers across Guyana beginning next week.

This commitment was made during a consultation with hundreds of rice farmers at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on April 30, as part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to support the rice industry in the face of increasing global challenges affecting agricultural production and markets.

Following consultations with farmers, it was agreed that the assistance would be provided through direct cash transfers. Rice farmers cultivating 50 acres or less will receive $15,000 per acre, while those cultivating more than 50 acres will receive $10,000 per acre.

The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), completed the registration process for eligible farmers and, following the conclusion of the harvest, undertook the necessary verification of claims to ensure transparency and accountability.

That verification process has now been completed, paving the way for the commencement of payments next week.

Approximately $3 billion has been allocated by the PPP/C Government for this initiative, reflecting the Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting rice farmers, safeguarding livelihoods, and strengthening Guyana’s rice industry.

The Government remains committed to working closely with our farmers to ensure that the rice sector continues to grow, remains competitive, and contributes to national food security, economic growth, and rural development.