U.S. Rice Exporters See Glimmer of Hope for Justice in Haiti

WASHINGTON DC – Following years of turmoil and security concerns over gang suppression in Haiti, on September 30, 2025, backed by the U.S., the United Nations (UN) Security Council agreed to transition the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission into a new “Gang Suppression Force” (GSF).  The GSF has a new and stronger mandate to proactively address the increased gang violence in the country through military force. 

The GSF is authorized for one year and aimed to have five times the amount of uniformed personnel than the original Kenya-led multinational security.  The primary objective of the GSF is to reassert authority in the country including the opening and secure operations of seaports, airports, and roadways.
 
Last week, USA Rice met with Ambassador Henry Wooster, the Chargé d’Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Haiti, to highlight the importance of the market to the U.S. industry and hear updates on the GSF.  During the meeting, Ambassador Wooster shared insights into the ongoing efforts to assemble and launch the militant mission.  In early December, the U.S. government participated in a force generation conference that resulted in more than 7,000 military forces being pledged by seven countries, above and beyond the original goal of 5,500 uniformed personnel.  The next steps include the assembly of the force, the arrival in country, and the act of carrying out the mission. 
 
“It is encouraging to finally hear some positive movement to bring security and justice in Haiti,” said Bobby Hanks, a Louisiana rice miller and chair of the USA Rice International Trade Policy Committee.  “Haiti is such an important market for U.S. rice exports, and we’re hopeful that the steps being taken over the next year will pave a way for political, social, and economic security to return to the country. 
 
Hanks continued, “When the U.S. exports rice to Haiti, it not only helps feed the population but provides stable jobs for local communities.  Our U.S. rice exports help drive economic security in Haiti.”  
 
During the conversation, Ambassador Wooster stressed the important development that the Trump Administration has built upon at the UN, which is greater ownership and accountability of UN members – meaning the U.S. will no longer be alone to foot the bill.  

Beginning April 1, 2026, the UN will take control of full ownership of the GSF, including a civilian-leading task force to carry out operations.  On September 30, 2026, the GSF mandate will expire, and the UN will need to determine if re-authorization is needed to carry out the mission completely or if rule and order have already been achieved.