The rice sector, considered strategic for the country's food security, remains on alert due to a scenario that could translate into price increases for the end consumer if the cost escalation is not contained in the short term. Meanwhile, conversations continue, with an eye on possible measures that will allow sustaining national production without drastically shifting the impact to the pockets of Panamanians. "We are all in the same boat regarding prices for the coming months," stated one of the participants. The increase is already hitting one of the most critical areas, which is the use of equipment, and this is passed on throughout the entire chain," explained one of those present. During the meeting, sector actors agreed that the situation is due to international factors, particularly the impact of armed conflicts that have strained energy markets, driving up oil and its derivative prices. In turn, the Minister of Agricultural Development acknowledged the challenge and assured that the Government is evaluating alternatives to mitigate the blow to the sector. "We have to seek the best solutions. We will listen to the opinions of all sectors to see how we face these tough times that lie ahead." The growing pressure from rising fuel prices worldwide is beginning to strongly hit the Panamanian rice sector. In a closed-door meeting held this Friday with the Minister of Agricultural Development, producers, millers, and input representatives sounded the alarm over the rising production costs of the country's main staple crop. The meeting, held amid the start of the planting cycle, focused on the direct impact of rising fuel costs on each phase of the production process, from land preparation to harvesting. Producers present indicated that the increase is already reflected in the use of agricultural machinery, transportation, and the price of inputs, anticipating a complex scenario for the coming months. They warned that the cost of rice by the end of July could be significantly higher compared to last year if mitigation measures are not adopted. "Fuel is key for land preparation, which is precisely what we are doing now."
