Ghanaian rice farmers face a deep economic crisis, holding an estimated GHS 5 billion worth of unsold paddy rice. The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) attributes this significant glut to the continuous influx of imported rice.
This situation makes it difficult for domestic producers to sell their harvest. Nearly 90 percent of local rice farmers currently hold unsold stock. This problem is partly due to the National Food Buffer Stock Company's (NAFCO) inability to purchase surplus rice. President Mahama had directed NAFCO to buy these surplus stocks.
This ongoing challenge fits into a broader narrative of Ghana’s agricultural sector struggles. Despite efforts to boost domestic food production, market access remains a critical barrier for farmers. The reliance on imported goods, especially food items, continues to undermine local industries. Data from previous years consistently shows a trade imbalance in agricultural products. This highlights the country's vulnerability to external market forces and its failure to adequately support internal supply chains.
Douglas Annor, President of PFAG, stated on June 4, "The continued influx of imported rice has made it difficult for domestic producers to sell their harvests." The Association of Ghana Rice Producers and Processors also expressed worry in April. They noted that approximately one million metric tonnes of paddy rice remained unsold on the local market.
Such a substantial volume of unsold rice poses severe implications for the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Without swift intervention, many could abandon rice cultivation, threatening Ghana’s food security. This situation could also reverse gains made in boosting domestic food output. Policymakers will likely face increasing pressure to address the import policies and NAFCO’s operational inefficiencies. The government's response will shape trust in agricultural support systems and impact future investment in the sector.
PFAG has proposed a six-month ban on rice imports. This temporary suspension would create market space for locally produced rice. It would also improve demand for domestic produce and stabilize farm-gate prices. The association also calls for a complete review of NAFCO's operations. This review should include its procurement systems, financing, and institutional capacity. Strengthening the buffer stock system is crucial to prevent future market gluts.
PFAG advocates for a legal framework. This framework would require public institutions to prioritize buying locally produced rice. Such institutions include government ministries, public schools, hospitals, and security services. This measure would guarantee a market for local farmers. It would also reduce Ghana's dependence on imported food. Full implementation of Ghana’s existing rice import quota policy is also on PFAG’s agenda. They believe stricter regulation of imports will support the domestic rice industry. Long-term sector growth demands significant investment in post-harvest infrastructure. This includes storage facilities, modern milling centers, and market linkage platforms. This investment would reduce post-harvest losses and boost competitiveness against imported varieties.