Min. Mustapha to meet millers as concerns grow over low paddy prices

Apr 21, 2026 News

Paddy price remains at $2,700 per bag

(Kaieteur News) – Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Monday said he will engage rice millers again this week as concerns persist among farmers over the current paddy price, which remains at $2,700 per bag at the start of the harvesting season.

The minister confirmed that harvesting for the first crop has commenced across major rice-producing regions and noted that he met with several farmers to hear their concerns firsthand. He acknowledged that complaints about low prices persist, particularly as input costs remain a major issue for producers, but maintained that discussions with millers are ongoing.

“I have to meet back with the millers. So far, the price is still at $2,700,” Mustapha said, adding that he could not yet indicate whether there will be any adjustment upward or downward.

Farmers have voiced dissatisfaction with the price being offered, arguing that it does not adequately reflect the rising cost of production, including fuel, fertiliser and labour. Some have warned that without improved prices or additional support, profitability for the current crop could be significantly affected.

The minister pointed to government interventions in the past, when authorities provided a $300 per bag subsidy for both the first and second crops to support farmers amid fluctuations in the global rice market. He indicated that similar measures are under consideration but stressed that no decision has been finalised. “So we are looking at that, but I can’t give you a direct answer at this stage,” he said.

The minister observed that in recent years, the government, through agencies such as the Guyana Rice Development Board, has implemented a range of measures aimed at stabilising the industry, including drainage and irrigation support, seed paddy assistance and facilitation of export markets.

Mustapha added that beyond direct subsidies, the government has provided additional forms of assistance to rice farmers, which he said help to cushion the impact of price fluctuations and increase disposable income within the sector. “The government not only gives the $300, but other means of assistance, so farmers are now getting more disposable income in their pockets,” he noted. The outcome of the upcoming meeting with millers is expected to be closely watched by farmers, many of whom are seeking price improvements as production ramps up for the current crop.

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paddy, paddy prices, rice mills

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