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Rice farmers across Ghana are facing growing financial difficulties following a sharp decline in paddy rice prices, the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana has said.
According to the association, the price of paddy rice currently ranges between GH¢100 and GH¢200 per kilogram, making it difficult for farmers, particularly in northern Ghana, to meet production costs and financial targets.
The group attributed the situation partly to restrictions on the exportation of cereals and grains, as well as the influx of foreign rice on the local market. It is therefore calling on government to increase the importation levy on rice to enable local farmers to compete fairly with imported brands.
The association also appealed to the Ghana Standards Authority to intensify checks on the origin of branded rice sold in the country. It noted that some foreign rice products are packaged with Ghanaian names, such as “Bonsu rice,” which misleads consumers who prefer locally produced rice and negatively affects domestic farmers.
Despite the challenges, the association expressed optimism about the future of rice production in the country. It disclosed that Ghana produced over two million tonnes of rice last year and believes output could rise to 10 million tonnes this year with adequate government support.
The statement was signed by the President of the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana, Farmer General Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, who assured rice farmers nationwide that the association is working to address their concerns.
