Rice strategy launched in Mauritania

The government of Mauritania has begun developing a National Strategy for Rice Development, aiming to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports. The initiative, launched on October 26, involves collaboration with international partners like Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Alliance for Rice Development in Africa (CARD), alongside local organizations such as the National Society for Rural Development (SONADER).

Focus on key rice-growing regions

The strategy will focus on the main rice-producing areas of the country, including the wilayas of Trarza, Brakna, Gorgol, and Guidimakha. The goal is to improve productivity, quality, and competitiveness of national rice production while strengthening food sovereignty and working toward self-sufficiency in rice.

Import volumes rise despite local growth

Despite increases in local rice production, Mauritania has continued to import large amounts of rice. Import volumes rose from 44,000 tonnes in 2021 to 81,000 tonnes in 2025, an 84 percent increase. The cost of these imports also rose significantly, from 25 million dollars to 44 million dollars during the same period.

Local production shows fluctuating growth

Local rice production has grown from 291,300 tonnes in 2020 to 431,700 tonnes in 2024, a 48.2 percent increase. However, this growth was not consistent, with a decline of 8.2 percent in 2024 after a peak in 2023. This fluctuation raises questions about the sector’s ability to meet growing demand.

Challenges to rice production identified

The government has identified several structural issues affecting rice production, including water management, maintenance of agricultural infrastructure, and access to improved seeds, inputs, and financing. Challenges also exist in the downstream processes of harvesting, storage, processing, and marketing, which impact yields and costs.

Strategy details still to be finalized

While the strategy aims to address these challenges, specific production targets, financing needs, and implementation timelines have yet to be defined. These details will be crucial in determining whether the strategy can effectively improve the competitiveness of local rice and reduce the country's dependence on imported rice.