THE RPA has always been the vanguard of the struggle for a fair deal for rice producers. It has played a pivotal role in agitating for the rights of the rice farmers who have always contributed to the economic, human and social development of Guyana.

At present the rice industry can hardly escape the vagaries of the free market economy in which allocation is determined by demand and supply. There is therefore need for intelligent and skilful policies to be implemented to facilitate the transition and a restructuring process for the industry. Over the past year, there has been a general decline of rice prices on the international market. This trend, which was non-uniform, has had more consequences for some rice producing countries than others. Thailand, the world’s main rice producer, in the last few years faced a serious threat to its earning position as Vietnam began offering more competitive prices.

The implications for the Caribbean and Guyana can be quite serious indeed. Caribbean producers will have to expect that these prices will soon be translated into this market and will inevitably threaten the comparatively high prices presently being enjoyed. Caribbean and Guyanese producers will have to pay greater attention to cost of production and efficiency. The consequences of these declining prices are already being felt by farmers. Considering the critical nature of the current situation, it will be necessary for government to protect the interest of our rice farmers. For example, farmers depend on the input suppliers and bank to provide them with the necessary agro-inputs and working capital to produce paddy which will be processed by millers into palatable and edible form for consumers, both locally and externally. Rice is more than a staple for us, it has become a way of life for every Guyanese, in terms of food, employment, foreign exchange earnings, economic growth, and so on.

We cannot at this point in time, falter and allow a collapse of this industry, as all of Guyana will be hurt.
MOHAMED KHAN
Former RPA Officer