05/04/2026
I rise to present a matter of urgent national importanceโone that directly affects the livelihoods of our farmers and the affordability of essential goods for our citizens. The concerns I share today are not new, yet they remain unresolved and continue to widen the gap between producers and consumers.
Firstly, farmers cultivating crops such as ginger, cabbage, and cauliflower are receiving disproportionately low prices for their produceโsometimes as little as Nu. 25 per kilogram for ginger. However, by the time these goods reach the market, consumers are paying nearly four times more, with prices ranging from Nu. 40 to 50 for just 250 grams. This stark disparity highlights inefficiencies and possible exploitation within the supply chain. Our farmers, who form the backbone of our rural economy, feel discouraged as their hard work yields minimal financial return.
Secondly, in the livestock sector, farmers raising piggery are facing similar challenges. Despite investing considerable effort and resources into raising livestock, they are offered only around Nu. 300 per kilogram for pork. Meanwhile, the same product is sold in markets for approximately Nu. 650 per kilogram. Such imbalances raise serious concerns about equity and fairness, as a significant portion of the profit is absorbed by intermediaries rather than the producers themselves.
Thirdly, these are not isolated issues. They reflect a broader systemic problem affecting various local products and agricultural activities. If left unaddressed, these challenges risk discouraging local production, increasing dependency on imports, and undermining national food security.
Finally, at a time when citizens are already burdened by GST and rising fuel prices, the dual pressure of low farm-gate prices and high market costs is becoming increasingly unsustainable. Farmers face limited access to markets, lack of pricing power, and inadequate support mechanisms, all of which compound their hardships.
In light of these pressing concerns, I respectfully urge the Government to initiate immediate discussions and implement effective measuresโsuch as price regulation, improved market access, and stronger oversight of intermediariesโto ensure fairness, sustainability, and resilience in our agricultural sector.
Let us act decisively to protect the dignity of our farmers and the well-being of our people.
