Rice farmers in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) staged protests on Thursday at Anna Regina, voicing frustration over declining paddy prices, delays at mills, and mounting crop losses.
According to a social media post by the We Invest In Nationhood (WIN) party, “Rice farmers from Region Two protested earlier Thursday at Anna Regina, in the presence of WIN MPs. The rice farmers complained about the PPP government’s failure to keep its promises.”
The demonstrations were driven by concerns that current prices being offered by millers are too low to cover production costs. Farmers say they are incurring significant losses, with some warning they may be unable to repay loans or sustain future cultivation.
Reports indicate that large quantities of paddy have also been left to spoil due to delays in offloading at mills, with farmers forced to wait days before their crops are accepted. Farmers have complained that it can take several days to offload paddy, increasing the risk of spoilage while waiting in long lines.
Farmers argue that prices—reported to be between about $2,300 and $2,800 per bag—fall below the cost of production, leaving them operating at a loss despite heavy investments in fertiliser, labour, and other inputs.
In addition to low prices, prolonged waiting times at mills have compounded the crisis. Some farmers say they are forced to remain with their loads for days under harsh conditions, further affecting the quality of their produce.
Protesters are calling for government intervention, including measures to ensure fair pricing, reduce delays at mills, and address logistical challenges affecting the sector.
The protests underscore growing discontent within Guyana’s rice industry, as farmers continue to grapple with falling returns and operational setbacks that threaten their livelihoods.
