Nigerian Rice Processors Warn of Threat from Imports

Rice millers in Nigeria have raised alarms regarding high production costs and the detrimental effects of imported semi-processed brown rice on local producers. Mohammed Abubakar Maifata, president of the Rice Processors Association of Nigeria (RIPAN), stated that these imports are undermining the local rice processing industry, making it challenging for domestic mills to compete.

He highlighted the difficulties posed by high production costs, inadequate supplies of paddy, and expensive operational expenses. Maifata presented evidence of rice imports to government officials, warning that continued importation could jeopardize investments in local rice production.

He noted that local producers struggle to match the production costs of countries like India and Thailand. Alhassan Yusuf, general manager of Labana Rice Mills, echoed these concerns, criticizing government arrangements that favor select importers over local millers.

The federal government aims to reduce the price of a 50kg bag of milled rice but processors argue that current costs make this unfeasible without support through tax relief and improved electricity supply.