Home  News Regional News Rice industry celebrates 100th anniversary
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Rice industry celebrates 100th anniversary |
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Saturday, 02 August 2008 |
GEORGETOWN – Guyana says it will export more than 260,000 tons of rice this year as it seeks to emerge as a significant global player in the industry.
Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud, speaking at a ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of the local rice industry, said it is the second largest agricultural sub-sector in Guyana and has been a major contributor to the country’s economy, accounting for approximately 20 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Persaud said the sector, which also employs thousands of persons, was also responsible for 12 per cent of total export earnings.
He said the anniversary would be used to assess the industry in terms of its competitiveness, opportunities and challenges.
“We will produce this year at least 300,000 tons of rice; we will export more than 260,000 tons…so we are emerging as a significant player in the global rice industry and government is committed to working with all those involved in the sector in making it more competitive,” Persaud said.
“We will look forward not only to a brighter and competitive rice industry but one which is very modern in keeping with what the realities are of today."
As part of the activities to mark the 100th anniversary celebrations, an official logo has been unveiled by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) with the general manager, Jagnarine Singh, indicating that 100 years is a significant achievement for the industry.
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