Rice farmers to begin receiving $3B cash subsidy next week

The government will begin distributing approximately $3 billion in cash subsidies to rice farmers across the country next week, fulfilling a commitment made by President Dr. Irfaan Ali earlier this year to cushion the industry against mounting global challenges.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced on Monday that all verification processes have been completed, clearing the way for payments to eligible farmers.

The assistance package stems from commitments made during a consultation between the President and hundreds of rice farmers at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on April 30, where concerns were raised about rising production costs and challenges in international rice markets.

Under the programme, farmers cultivating 50 acres or less will receive $15,000 per acre, while those cultivating more than 50 acres will receive $10,000 per acre.

The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), completed the registration of eligible farmers before undertaking a verification exercise after the harvest to ensure claims were accurate and payments are made transparently.

According to Minister Mustapha, that process has now been finalised, allowing the cash distribution to commence next week.

The PPP/C Government has allocated approximately $3 billion for the initiative, which it says is aimed at supporting rice farmers, protecting livelihoods, and ensuring the continued growth and competitiveness of Guyana’s rice industry.

The government said it remains committed to working with farmers to strengthen the sector and enhance its contribution to national food security, economic growth, and rural development.