标签： Suriname

The Surinamese government’s decision to withhold subsidies from rice farmers has sparked widespread concern, not only for the agricultural sector but for the entire nation. Rice fields in Nickerie, often referred to as the lungs of the country’s food supply, are under threat as the government turns its back on the very people who sustain the nation’s food security. Farmers in Nickerie are grappling with rising costs of fertilizers, fuel, labor, and maintenance, while fluctuating global market prices further exacerbate their struggles. These farmers are not just producers; they are the backbone of national food security, employment, exports, and economic stability. Without government support, they risk falling into a cycle of high-interest commercial loans, while cheap imported rice from Asia floods the local market. This could lead to reduced production, increased imports, higher consumer prices, and growing poverty in agricultural districts. The refusal to invest in farmers signals a dangerous shift towards dependency on foreign food chains, a risk Suriname cannot afford. In contrast, developed nations like the Netherlands, the U.S., and India prioritize agricultural subsidies to ensure food security and support sustainable production. Subsidies are not a handout but a strategic investment in irrigation, mechanization, storage, and efficiency. The government’s rigid stance, without offering alternative solutions, reflects shortsightedness rather than strength. True leadership involves investing in the sectors that keep the nation running. Suriname cannot rely solely on oil and mining; without agriculture, Nickerie, and the rice fields that have fed generations, the country risks losing its soul. It is time for the government to shift from distant policies to active engagement, recognizing that neglecting the rice farmer today will lead to scarcity on every plate tomorrow.