ARLINGTON, VA – Haiti, the top market for U.S.-origin milled long grain rice, continues to grapple with political instability that directly affects trade flows. On Saturday, recently appointed interim Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé swore in new cabinet members in an effort to stabilize the Caribbean nation.
Fils-Aimé assumed office following the departure of former Prime Minister Garry Conille, who was removed by Haiti's nine-member transitional presidential council. The council, established in April, is tasked with restoring democratic order and selecting a leadership team to address the country’s mounting challenges.
“The ongoing political turmoil in Haiti significantly disrupts the import of U.S. rice, which is vital to Haitian food security,” said Asiha Grigsby, USA Rice senior director of the Western Hemisphere. “Stability in Haiti’s leadership is crucial for maintaining consistent trade and ensuring that U.S. rice continues to feed millions of Haitian families.”
The backdrop of this leadership change is an escalation in gang violence that has brought operations in the capital, Port-au-Prince, to a standstill, including the suspension of air traffic. The United States has renewed its push to transform the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission, aiming to secure funding and improve security conditions critical for trade and humanitarian aid. USA Rice continues to work with Congressional offices to reinforce support to the U.S. State Department to remain engaged in helping the Haitian people.
Despite a number of concerning shipments of rice originating in Pakistan in recent months, U.S. exports have continued to the country. As Haiti navigates this transition, U.S. rice exporters are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of a stable environment to sustain trade and meet the country’s pressing food needs.