challenges in rice supply addressed by St Vincent to Guyana
Published on: June 7, 2024.
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St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, recently reached out to the President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali, in a bid to address the ongoing challenges faced by St Vincent in sourcing rice from its suppliers in Guyana. The Prime Minister highlighted the production breakdowns, missed shipments, and high percentage of damaged paddy due to a bug infestation in the current crop as the main causes of the rice supply challenges.
During an interview on NBC Radio’s Face to Face program, Dr Gonsalves expressed the need for immediate assistance to prevent any potential shortages between October and Christmas, when the demand for rice typically peaks. He emphasized the importance of finding alternative suppliers to ensure uninterrupted rice supply for the island.
To tackle the issue of food security, the East Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC) will explore the possibility of sourcing rice from Brazil and other alternative suppliers. This proactive measure aims to safeguard against any future disruptions in the rice supply chain.
In conclusion, Dr Ralph Gonsalves’ request for assistance from the President of Guyana underscores the significance of rice as a key commodity for St Vincent and the Grenadines. By actively seeking alternative suppliers, the government aims to mitigate any potential shortages and ensure a stable rice supply for the island.
Source: [Loop News Caribbean](https://caribbean.loopnews.com){target=”_blank”rel=”nofollow”}
