Govt exploring new markets for paddy as rice production expands

The government is intensifying efforts to secure new markets for locally produced paddy as Guyana’s rice industry continues to expand and farmers seek greater opportunities for their produce.

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha said discussions are ongoing to increase exports to existing markets while exploring new opportunities across the region and beyond.

“I have been talking to my colleague, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Minister Hugh Todd, so that we can look to find more lucrative markets for the farmers’ paddy,” he said.

The government is also targeting increased access to CARICOM markets, particularly as regional demand for Guyana’s rice continues to grow.

“St. Lucia and Jamaica- their Prime Minister was here the last time, and I hope that they could increase their quota. They are buying more rice from Guyana than from any other part of the Caribbean,” he said.

Minister Mustapha explained that while European markets remain important, prices there are generally lower compared with CARICOM and North American markets.

“We have been talking to Mexico. We have been discussing with Haiti. There will be new opportunities in Cuba. And we are still looking at the CARICOM region, so that we can have more market,” Minister Mustapha stated.

The minister said he remains optimistic about increased production during the second crop of 2026, noting that favourable weather conditions associated with El Niño could support higher yields.

To support the growing industry, the government is also investing in additional storage capacity to help manage increased paddy production.

“We are building storage capacity in Essequibo. Already, the president announced, with a storage and a silo. We will build one in Onderneeming in Essequibo. And in various areas, we are looking to build capacity,” Minister Mustapha said. [DPI]