WITH the agriculture sector’s anticipation of a record level of rice production for this year, it may be time for stakeholders such as producers and investors to examine possible value-added products, according to President Donald Ramotar. 

Drawing on his years of experience in the sector, the President made this observation following the recent declaration of 300,000 tonnes for this year’s first crop.
Noting that not only has production increased, but also productivity or “yield per hectare”, he said that success creates its own challenges and now there are expanded moves to find more markets for the locally produced staple.
“Maybe we should start thinking of producing cereals….for us to able to add value and even earn much more,” he said.
These ventures will create more employment, not only for workers, but also for many others. Specialised products such as “five- minute” rice would also help persons such as housewives and others who cook, to have more time for other essential tasks as they see fit, the President noted.
Guyana has a major export deal with Venezuela and CARICOM territories, and this is being capitalised on by many farmers and millers in the sector.
Last year a record 535,000 tonnes of rice was produced and this year’s production could exceed 600,000 tonnes.(GINA)