According to the most recent decision taken by the Rice Agro-Food Chain, the acquisition of rice will allow the supply to the population until the deliveries of the current harvest have been regulated.

The measure was adopted following over five hours of debate between representatives of the producer unions, millers, food distributors, regulatory entities and consumers.

According to the Minister of Agricultural Development, Augusto Valderrama, the decision was taken based on reports presented on the supply calculations, prepared by officials of the Authority for Consumer Protection and Defense of Competition and technicians the entity.

In his opinion, the agreement will help guarantee the food security of Panamanians, amid problems due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise in supply costs.

For his part, the president of the Rice Chain, Alexander Araúz, explained that after analyzing the statistics, as well as the progress of sowing, it was found that there is enough rice in the country until next September.

He added that 60 thousand tons of rice will be imported, to begin on begin on August 1st, so as to further strengthen supply.

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