The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) estimated losses of approximately $4b this year as a result of the paddy bug infestation, according to the Ministry of Finance’s midyear review.
According to the review, the “GRDB estimated losses from paddy bug at approximately $4 billion as a result of 10-25 percent paddy bug infestation in paddy delivered to mills.”
This, the review said was alarming when compared to an estimated infestation 10% in 2023.
The report noted, that the chemical options are being used until research and development of appropriate biocontrol agents is completed for application during the second crop.