RICE MILLERS PROTEST IMPORT WAIVER AS PRODUCTION COSTS RISE

Rice millers in Nigeria have raised concerns over the Federal Government’s decision to grant import waivers, warning that the policy could undermine local rice production at a time when operating costs remain high.

The millers said the influx of imported rice could make it difficult for locally produced rice to compete, particularly as manufacturers and farmers continue to face rising costs for energy, transportation, labour, and other inputs.

They argued that import waivers could discourage investment in domestic rice processing and weaken efforts to build a stronger local agricultural value chain.

According to the millers, local operators have invested heavily in processing facilities and infrastructure to increase the availability of locally produced rice.

They urged the government to create policies that support domestic production rather than measures that could expose local businesses to intense competition from cheaper imports.

The millers also called for improved access to affordable financing, reliable electricity, better transportation infrastructure, and other measures that could reduce production costs.

Agricultural stakeholders said strengthening local rice production would help create jobs, support farmers, conserve foreign exchange, and improve food security.

They stressed that consistent government policies were necessary to encourage long-term investment in the sector.

The rice millers urged the Federal Government to review the import waiver policy and engage industry operators before implementing measures that could affect local production.

They reaffirmed their willingness to work with the government to expand domestic rice production and improve the competitiveness of Nigerian rice.