Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has reaffirmed the government’s proposal to require rice importers to purchase at least 50 per cent of their supplies from local rice producers before receiving approval to import the remaining 50 per cent.
The proposed policy is aimed at promoting locally produced rice, reducing Ghana’s dependence on imported rice and creating a reliable market for farmers across the country.
Dr. Forson explained that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic agriculture, support local rice farmers and increase the consumption of Ghanaian rice.
Under the proposed arrangement, importers would be required to buy half of their rice supplies from local producers as a condition for importing the remaining quantity.
The Finance Minister made the remarks during an engagement with students and members of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) community ahead of the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement.
The upcoming budget, themed “New Economy,” is expected to outline the government’s economic priorities and strategies for promoting sustainable growth and job creation.
The proposed rice import policy is also expected to provide stronger market opportunities for local rice farmers, encourage investment in rice production and reduce the country’s import expenditure.
If implemented, the initiative could become a significant intervention in Ghana’s agricultural sector by strengthening local rice production and encouraging consumers to patronise Made-in-Ghana rice.
Source: newsthemegh.com