What are the effects of importation of rice to the economy?
This was revealed in Parliament by the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Hon Selwyn Riumana when delivering a statement on rice program currently implemented by the CNURA government.
Mr. Riumana said for decades successive governments know that the importation of rice has had a negative impact on the economy.
He said if we are to sustain our economy and improve service delivery to our rural people, we must commence commercialized rice production.
Mr. Riumana however warns that for this National Rice Program to be successful, community attitudes are extremely important in fostering economic development in the Solomon Islands.
"Community attitudes must be positive, genuine and have an interest in advancing economic development. The people of this nation must realize the importance of the impacts the rural advancement policy of the Government will have on their future wellbeing."