President Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed support for rice farmers, as Government focuses attention on lowering production costs, boosting yields and cushioning the impact of global market disruptions.
Addressing a Rice Farmers’ Forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Thursday, the President said the Government will continue to make significant investments in the rice sector to improve productivity and ensure farmers can earn and expand their operations.
One of the strategies outlined is to enhance farm profitability through diversification. Dr Ali explained that new research initiatives are exploring ways for farmers to integrate high-value crops into existing acreage, allowing them to supplement income and build resilience against industry shocks.
“If you have 10 acres, how we can convert one acre into a high-value initiative that allows you to earn more,” he said, adding that the Government is prepared to co-invest in infrastructure and capital costs to support these efforts.
The President acknowledged that international factors, such as oversupply from major exporters and geopolitical tensions, including the Russia–Ukraine conflict, continue to impact rice prices and input costs.
He urged closer collaboration between Government and rice farmers as global disruptions continue to drive up input costs and create uncertainty in international markets.
He said that while some countries are reducing rice production, potentially creating opportunities for higher prices, farmers may not fully benefit due to rising expenses.
“You can see an increase in grain price, but you can lose that increase because of the rise in input costs,” he explained.
Dr Ali said the Government has already transferred “tens of billions of dollars” to citizens through tax relief measures and subsidies to cushion these impacts.
He added that region-specific challenges will be addressed through targeted strategies, with continued investments planned for infrastructure such as drainage, storage and drying facilities, particularly in key rice-producing areas.
“We are here together as partners… to find the best possible solutions for the industry,” he said.
