Colombia’s Agriculture Minister Sparks Controversy: Rice Is ‘No Longer Profitable’
The statement by Agriculture Minister Indalecio Dangond that rice “is no longer a profitable business” in Colombia sparked a heated controversy among producers, industry leaders and political sectors. The controversy arose after the official recommended that farmers in La Guajira and Cesar — in Colombia’s Caribbean region — stop planting the grain and turn to […]
Colombia's Agriculture Minister Indalecio Dangond ignited controversy by stating that rice production is no longer profitable in the country. This assertion caused a stir among producers, industry leaders, and political factions. Dangond made the remarks during a meeting with farmers from La Guajira and Cesar in Colombia's Caribbean region, where he suggested that farmers shift to alternative crops such as cashews, coconut, palm, pomegranate, and plantains.
The minister cited issues like low prices, high production costs, and climatic difficulties as reasons for his stance. However, after facing criticism, Dangond clarified that his recommendation specifically pertained to La Guajira, where rice farmers have experienced consecutive losses. Despite the clarification, the controversy persists amid tense relations between the Ministry of Agriculture and Fedearroz, Colombia's main rice producers' association.
The debate about rice's future in Colombia is rooted in its significant role in the nation's economy and dietary habits. With over 13,000 mechanized rice producers, 589,848 hectares planted, and 3.18 million tons produced in 2023, rice remains a staple food for thousands of families. The ongoing trade dispute between the government and Fedearroz, along with the crop's economic challenges, underscores the complex task of balancing profitability with the nation's reliance on rice as a vital food source.
Written by urgent.news from Colombia One's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
