The government has budgeted $430 million in 2026 to support the expansion of Guyana’s rice industry, according to Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, who presented the 2026 National Budget to the National Assembly on Monday.
Dr Singh noted that the PPP/C government’s support for the rice subsector has steadily increased production over the past five years through initiatives such as the distribution of climate-resilient and high-yielding rice varieties, the construction of drying floors, research on value-added products, access to export markets, billions in direct support to farmers and millers, and the launch of a no-cost crop insurance facility.
Over the next five years, the government plans to invest in seed processing facilities, establish rice-producing clusters, promote domestic fertiliser production, expand storage capacity with climate-controlled silos, with $1 billion budgeted in 2026 for construction, and develop and market value-added rice-based products.
In 2026, efforts will also focus on expanding trade opportunities in Mexico and Europe, improving production through better tillage, nano fertilisers, and certified seeds, commercialising biofortified rice, introducing a new aromatic variety, and expanding value-added production.
In 2025, excluding fertiliser and paddy subsidies, the government spent $430.9 million supporting the rice industry, demonstrating a sustained commitment to developing the sector and strengthening Guyana’s position as a competitive rice exporter.