For more than two decades, the US Rice Producers Association (USRPA) and the Guatemalan Rice Association (ARROZGUA) have worked together to promote U.S. rice, strengthen trade relationships, and support nutrition education throughout Guatemala. Since 2004, this partnership has grown beyond market development, reaching mothers, children, and communities across the country.
One of its most meaningful accomplishments has been the School Nutrition Program, which promotes rice as an affordable, nutritious, and versatile food. Through cooking demonstrations, workshops, and educational activities, mothers learn practical ways to prepare balanced meals using rice and locally available ingredients.
The program has developed eight rice-based recipes, and evaluations indicate that 85% of trained mothers understand healthy cooking practices. Its reach is significant, with approximately 1.2 million children consuming rice three times per week and activities connected to approximately 25,000 schools throughout Guatemala.
These numbers represent more than successful promotion. They reflect mothers gaining valuable knowledge and children benefiting from school meals.
The program’s impact was especially evident in March 2025, when Mark Slupek, Deputy Administrator for Global Programs at USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), visited Escuela Francisco Morazán in Guatemala City during a USDA Agricultural Trade Mission.
Slupek personally helped serve U.S. rice to kindergarten students celebrating Carnaval. Sharing the experience on LinkedIn, he described it as “What a thrill.” His participation demonstrated how agricultural trade programs can make a difference beyond export statistics.
The success of these initiatives reflects the strong relationship between USRPA and ARROZGUA. Through changing market conditions and industry challenges, both organizations have maintained close communication with millers, importers, and consumers while adapting promotional activities to meet local needs.
“Our relationship with ARROZGUA is a perfect example of why building and maintaining strong relationships with our international partners is so important,” said Iris Figueroa, President and CEO of USRPA. “For more than 20 years, we have worked together not only to promote U.S. rice, but also to connect our producers with the people who buy and consume the rice they grow. These relationships help us understand our customers, respond to their needs, and continue creating opportunities for U.S. rice around the world.”
“What makes this partnership especially meaningful is seeing its impact beyond trade, helping mothers prepare nutritious meals and reaching children through school nutrition programs. Promoting U.S. rice is about more than making a sale. It is about building trust and lasting relationships.”
“For more than 20 years, our partnership with USRPA has strengthened Guatemala’s rice industry while making a meaningful difference in our communities. Together, we have helped educate mothers, support school nutrition programs, and promote rice consumption. We value this long-standing relationship and look forward to continuing our work together.” Henry E. Gonzalez, JR – Agroindustrias Brehensa, S.A., Guatemala
After more than 20 years, the USRPA–ARROZGUA partnership continues to demonstrate that agricultural market development can strengthen demand for U.S. rice while making a meaningful difference in the lives of families and children.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
