Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Selwyn Riumana of Solomon Islands

Riumana said for decades successive governments know that the importation of rice has had a negative impact on the economy.

SI Lost Millions In Meat ImportsMinister of Agriculture and Livestock Selwyn Riumana said recently in Parliament that it is costing the government around $20million annually in meat importation.

Mr Riumana said the increase in population resulted in the increased volume of imports therefore the country must now take steps to reduce heavy reliance on rice importation.

Mr Riumana said the $10 million allocation will be included in next years budget, which officials in his ministry are now finalising.

Riumana said the government is serious about addressing the production of rice, however the land tenure system has delayed the smooth implementation of the programmes.

In reply, Minister Riumana said the price of locally grown rice in the rural area is quite low and people who bought the products are happy with the cost.

the present CNURA Government policy.

Speaking at the harvest ceremony, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Selwyn Riumana said the school’s rice project is funded under the National Rice Programme to ensure food security at all levels.

Riumana said when rice is politicized by bigger countries; prices in local shops put the majority of Solomon Islanders at a critically disadvantaged situation.

Riumana said the Government will continue to assist farmers to cultivate their own rice.

Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Selwyn Riumana said recently in Parliament that it is costing the government around $20million annually in meat importation.