In a significant development for Suriname’s agricultural sector, rice farmers have secured substantially improved pricing following government-mediated negotiations. Minister Mike Noersalim of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) successfully facilitated an agreement that will see rice millers offering between SRD 500–550 per bale, a notable increase from the previously proposed SRD 300–400 range.
The breakthrough emerged from comprehensive consultations involving multiple stakeholders, including Agriculture Minister Noersalim, Economic Affairs Minister Andrew Basaaron, parliamentary representative Ebu Jones, and Edmund Duiker, Chairman of the NOFA Fund. The discussions focused not only on immediate pricing concerns but also on establishing sustainable solutions for subsequent harvesting seasons.
Ashwin Jagmohansing, President of the Nickerie Rice Farmers Interest Group Association (VBPN), expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating he would return to his members with positive news. Approximately 20,000–22,000 hectares of rice have been planted for the current season.
Minister Noersalim emphasized that while LVV maintains a mediator role in price determinations, the rice sector operates under a free-market system where prices are ultimately determined by supply and demand dynamics. The ministry’s intervention aims to streamline negotiations ensuring both producer satisfaction and continued rice production stability.
Infrastructure improvements were also addressed, with Minister Noersalim confirming resolution of pumping station issues at Wakay and ongoing efforts to upgrade irrigation systems through public tenders.
The pricing dispute represents a longstanding challenge in global agricultural markets, as noted by Economic Affairs Minister Basaaron, who highlighted regional developments influencing price structures. The current administration has committed to establishing comprehensive cost-calculation methodologies with broad stakeholder support.
Parliamentarian Ebu Jones praised the collaborative approach, contrasting it with previous administrations’ priorities. He emphasized that fair pricing for farmers would ultimately benefit consumers through potentially lower market prices for rice products, creating a win-win scenario for both producers and the broader society.