By: Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News |
The Government of Guyana is set to roll out a $2.7 billion support package aimed at major agricultural stakeholders, particularly rice farmers and fisher folk, as part of efforts to boost productivity and cushion the effects of fluctuating commodity prices and limited market access.
President Irfaan Ali announced on Wednesday, outlining a range of interventions and subsidies to help farmers manage rising input costs and maintain profitability.
“When you look at what we give for fertilizer, transportation, and agrochemicals — when you add up all of this, it’s more than $400,000 for that 15-acre plot,” the Head of State explained.
The President stated that the government has already invested significant sums in the first rice crop of 2025. When combined with the upcoming allocations for the second crop, farmers will see tangible benefits through reduced production costs.
Support for Fisher Folk
President Ali also confirmed that the fisher folk subsidy program will continue, with each registered fisherman receiving an additional $150,000 in support.
“We’re going to continue that program we started. Some fisher folk have already received it, and we’ll give $150,000 to every fisher folk out there to help them,” he said.
The President also highlighted other forms of assistance to the fisheries sector, including tax-free access to fuel and capital equipment, as well as support for the procurement of fishing materials and inputs.
Concerns from Farmers
Despite the government’s ongoing efforts, several rice farmers have expressed concerns about inadequate storage facilities, particularly as global price drops have impacted their profitability.
Farmers have appealed for government-supported grain storage infrastructure, arguing that such facilities would allow them to store paddy and sell at more favorable market prices, rather than being forced to sell at a loss or risk spoilage.
Some have reported dumping large quantities of paddy due to delays from millers and exposure to weather damage, underscoring the need for urgent post-harvest solutions.
The $2.7 billion initiative forms part of the administration’s broader agricultural resilience strategy, which seeks to modernize the sector, protect farmers from market shocks, and ensure that Guyana’s food security and export potential continue to expand sustainably.
