Chamber of Commerce Weighs In on Rice Issue

With less than twenty-four hours before the shipment of rice arrives, the showdown between producers and importer is heating up. Earlier today, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry issued a release advocating for proper procedures to be put in place for the importation of rice.  The Chamber notes that all importations are administered by rules and regulations that are specific to the goods or commodities being brought in.  While food and beverages from other CARICOM countries also require permits, they are to be applied for and issued prior to importation and not when the shipment arrives in country.  In the case of the Guyanese rice being imported by businessman Jack Charles, careful thought must be given to whether it is of the required standard and quality to satisfy or exceed what is available locally.  Likewise, consideration must be given to the potential effects of importation on local producers.  The Chamber is calling for an adherence to the rule of law and urges for the processes to be followed in the interest of Belizean consumers, as well as the economy.