Although GuySuCo surpassed its 2015 production targets, the industry is threatened by weakening sugar prices, aged machinery and high production costs.

In 2016, the Government will inject $9 billion to assist the industry in its recovery and modernization programme. Similarly, though surpassing its target last year, the rice industry remains challenged in terms of cost of production and competitiveness.

The Government will continue to support the industry to access new trade partners, following the collapse of the lucrative Venezuelan market.