The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has welcomed a new government policy to limit rice imports. This import quota policy aims to increase demand for rice grown in Ghana. It also seeks to strengthen the country’s own rice farming industry. PFAG sees this as a positive step forward for local farmers.
However, the association highlights a critical issue: a large surplus of unsold rice. PFAG refers to this as a rice glut. They are urging the government to put the import quota policy into action very quickly. The group warns that any delays will have serious negative effects on the rice sector. PFAG President Douglas Annor stated that delays could prevent Ghana from producing enough rice for itself.
Ghana has been working to become self-sufficient in rice production for years. This glub threatens that goal. Farmers are losing money and motivation to grow more rice. PFAG's own checks show that more than 90 percent of rice farmers have a lot of rice they cannot sell. This crisis continues even though the government has tried different plans. The association notes that thousands of farmers are considering stopping rice farming altogether. This warning comes as the new planting season nears.
The PFAG report points out a troubling paradox. Ghanaian farmers have produced a large amount of good quality rice. Yet, the market is still full of imported rice. This continued importation, even by some government-related groups, and illegal cross-border sales are hurting local farmers. The National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), which was supposed to buy local rice, has not met its target. This failure leaves farmers without a buyer of last resort. This situation demoralizes farming communities and threatens Ghana’s ability to feed its own people.
PFAG is calling for more than just import quotas. They want a full plan to fix the current problems. A key demand is a six-month halt on all rice imports. This would allow farmers to sell their current stock. It would also give them financial relief and boost confidence in the local market. PFAG also wants the national security forces to stop rice smuggling. They see this as economic sabotage against Ghana's farmers.
Furthermore, PFAG wants a law requiring all government offices. This includes ministries, schools, hospitals, and prisons. These places must buy only local rice and other foods. PFAG insists this rule must be strongly enforced. Farmer groups should help supply these institutions. The association also called for a review of NAFCO. They want it to be made more effective as a buyer of local farm products. A fund to stabilize rice prices is also proposed.