Canawaima ferry suspension threatens Suriname agriculture and tourism

The suspension of the Canawaima ferry service is causing significant disruptions to transport and supply chains in Suriname. According to DNA member Ebu Jones, the Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS) ordered the ferry to stop operating until necessary repairs are completed. Jones noted that the lack of regular maintenance is a result of previous policy failures and warned that the stoppage will negatively impact tourism and lead to a loss of national income.

National Assembly member Rawien Raghoenandan highlighted that the ferry's absence is creating a critical shortage of fertilizer being transported from Guyana. This shortage is driving up prices for local entrepreneurs and threatening the agricultural sector. Raghoenandan warned that the inability to access essential fertilizer could lead to lower crop yields, increased production costs, and a direct threat to Suriname’s national food security.