Caribbean officials have revealed that the two countries’ leaders, Bruce Golding and Bharrat Jagdeo, will now mediate the ongoing rice dispute between Jamaica and Guyana respectively, after regional talks in Antigua failed.

Last year, a rice shortfall from Guyana forced Jamaica to buy about 15,400 metric tons from the US. This year, Guyana insists it has enough rice for Jamaica.

Suriname, which also produces and exports rice, indicated its ability to supply to Jamaica, but is prepared to agree to the suspension of the common external tariff, as a special consideration of Jamaica's emergency needs.