Colombia's Ministry of Agriculture, led by Viceminister Geidy Ortega, held a working session with rice producers from Norte de Santander to address requests and share progress on support measures. Entities including UPRA, ADR, ICA, FINAGRO, and Banco Agrario participated, along with local secretariats. Advances in programs like FAIA and direct aid were highlighted.
On March 22, 2026, Colombia's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development organized a working table in Norte de Santander, led by Viceminister of Agricultural Affairs Geidy Ortega. The goals were to address rice producers' requests, share progress on support measures, and enhance institutional coordination for their productive development. Attendees included the Rural Agricultural Planning Unit (UPRA), Rural Development Agency (ADR), Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA), Agricultural Sector Financing Fund (FINAGRO), and Banco Agrario. Also present were the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Superintendence of Industry and Commerce, Agriculture Secretariat of the Norte de Santander Governorship, and Cúcuta Mayor's Office Secretariat. Key updates included the FAIA program benefiting 401 producers with over 1.6 billion pesos. The Direct Support Program, governed by resolutions 042 and 043 of 2026, has 676 registrants with eased requirements. Under President Gustavo Petro's administration, financing reached 3,596 beneficiaries with 412.611 billion pesos in credit, 95.06% for small producers or low-income ones. Tools like Special Credit Lines (LEC), Rural Capitalization Incentive (ICR), and Agricultural Promotion Credit (CFA) remain active. Implementation of the Agricultural Solidarity Fund (FONSA) in Norte de Santander and national FONSA Arroz is progressing. The ministry anticipates another meeting with territorial authorities to review proposals and strengthen rice sector actions.
