News and Press Release – 23 Jul 2024

FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT

1. Above‑average paddy production anticipated in 2024
2. Rice exports forecast at above‑average level in 2024

Above‑average paddy production anticipated in 2024

The 2024 second paddy crop, accounting for about half of the annual production, is currently at vegetative and flowering stages, and crop conditions are generally favourable in the main producing eastern coastal areas. Following some dryness between March and April, which coincides with the harvesting of the first crop, rainfall amounts increased in May and June, replenishing soil moisture deficits and supporting planting operations. Planted area is estimated to be above the average due to favourable weather conditions at planting time. Although rainfall amounts are forecast at below‑average levels in August, yields are not expected to be affected as the period corresponds to the maturation stage, when crops are more resistant to dryness.

The 2024 annual paddy production, including the first season crop harvested between March and May, is forecast at an above‑average level of 1.07 million tonnes due to large sowings and above‑average yields.

Rice exports forecast at above‑average level in 2024

Rice is the country’s most important exportable agricultural commodity and, on average, about half of the annual production is exported. Reflecting the expected increase in exportable surplus due to the above‑average 2024 harvest, exports are forecast to be above the average in the 2024 marketing year (January/December).

Source : https://reliefweb.int/report/guyana/giews-country-brief-co-operative-republic-guyana-23-july-2024