Rice farmers to receive cash subsidies from next week

Distribution of cash subsidies to rice farmers across Guyana will begin next week, following the completion of a verification process for eligible recipients.

The payments, totalling approximately $3 billion, stem from a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali at a consultation with hundreds of rice farmers at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on April 30.

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

The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Guyana Rice Development Board, completed the registration of eligible farmers and verified claims following the conclusion of the harvest.

The government said the initiative reflects its commitment to supporting the rice sector amid rising global challenges affecting agricultural production and markets.