The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC) has praised the Government of Guyana for its swift intervention to assist rice farmers facing a 20% decline in the price of paddy. With agriculture, particularly rice being the backbone of Berbice’s economy, the Chamber views the government’s proactive measures as a vital step in sustaining the sector.
According to the Chamber, rice cultivation in Berbice increased from 67,000 acres in 2024 to a projected 78,000 acres in 2025, while national production is expected to exceed 3,000,000 tons. However, the decline in paddy prices raised concerns among farmers, prompting calls for government support.
In response, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha brokered an agreement guaranteeing farmers a minimum of $4,000 per bag of paddy from millers, with the government providing a subsidy of $300 per bag.
The CCCC hailed this initiative as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to agriculture and the welfare of farmers. Chamber President Poonai Bhigroog reaffirmed the organization’s support for efforts that protect and promote the livelihoods of those in the industry.
