(3 Minutes Read)
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) is urging the Ghanaian government to prioritize consumer tastes—especially the preference for aromatic rice—in its rice production strategy. In a recent report, the IFS recommends that the proposed Rice Development Board lead efforts to produce and distribute high-quality aromatic rice seeds that match popular imports from countries like Thailand and India.
Dr. Said Boakye of the IFS highlighted that Ghana spent GH₵3.05 billion on rice imports in 2024, mainly due to consumer preference for aromatic varieties. Local rice continues to struggle in the market despite government support, largely due to quality differences.
To reverse this trend, the IFS proposes that Ghana collaborate with research institutions to develop or import premium aromatic rice seeds, improve irrigation, train farmers, and enhance post-harvest practices. Better branding and packaging are also essential to compete with imports.
Currently, Ghana underutilizes its 5.9 million hectares of rice-suitable land. If yields improved to global benchmarks like Vietnam’s, the country could produce enough rice for domestic use and exports. Key barriers include poor seed systems, low fertilizer use, limited mechanization, and weak irrigation. The Rice Development Board could help tackle these while aligning production with consumer preferences.
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The IFS also urges increased investment, youth engagement in farming, and consistent policy execution. Without political will and long-term planning, past failures could repeat.
