Senegal supports local rice farmers amid rising imports

The government of Senegal has launched a targeted support program for rice producers, introducing a subsidy of CFA50 (around $0.09) per kilogram of locally produced rice, effective from March 5, 2026. The measure aims to make domestic rice more competitive against imported varieties and strengthen market linkages between local farmers and commercial distribution channels.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce said the subsidy will be implemented through public procurement and commercial channels, encouraging wholesalers and retailers to source more from national producers. The move comes amid persistently high import volumes: Senegal imported around 1.6 million tonnes of rice in 2024/2025, with USDA projecting roughly 1.7 million tonnes for 2025/2026.

Rice remains the most widely consumed cereal in Senegal, but rising import dependence has limited the ability of local producers to supply the domestic market. According to the Market Regulation Agency (ARM), the initiative is expected to enhance the competitiveness of domestic rice, stabilize consumer prices, and ensure fair remuneration for farmers.

The subsidy continues a series of government efforts to promote local rice. Earlier, on February 26, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko issued a circular directing public institutions and agencies to prioritize Senegalese rice in procurement, while in November 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce temporarily suspended import declarations to tighten market regulation.

Through these measures, the government aims to increase demand for local producers and reduce accumulated unsold stocks, which have been challenged by competition from cheaper imported rice. USDA data shows that rice imports into Senegal rose 23% in 2024/2025 compared to 2022/2023, with imports in the current 2025/2026 marketing year projected at 1.7 million tonnes.

Tags: rice, Senegal