Rice is a staple in many Caricom homes. Guyana is a large producer and trader of the grain. - File

An increase of approximately three per cent has been added to the price of Guyana rice, one of the most sold brands islandwide, since Monday.

In real terms, consumers may be paying approximately $18 per pound, up from about $16, at various retail outlets.

Speaking with The Gleaner yesterday, Derrick Nembhard, managing director at Jamaica Rice Milling, said the passage of Hurricane Dean was a factor but the primary reasons behind the increase were a rise in the cost of food items out of Guyana, and that transport charges have escalated.

The JFM Warehouse currently sells a 45-kilogram (99 pounds) bag of Guyana rice for $1,415, a news release issued by the company stated.

While the price of United States rice has not increased, effective last Monday, the company has increased Guyana rice by 2.8 per cent.

There are other concerns regarding the sale of rice, as two consumers have reported to The Gleaner that rice is being 'married' for sale with other grocery items.

Terry Smith of St. Thomas said that last week Wednesday she wanted 20 pounds of rice but was told by a shopkeeper that she could get no more than two pounds.

"I said to the shop lady if I could even get five pounds and she said no more than a pound or two and, in order to get it, I must buy something else, such as sugar or flour," Ms. Smith said.