Guyana’s Agriculture Sector gets major boost in 2025 Budget

Feb 01, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor,

The Government of Guyana has allocated GY$104.6 billion to the agriculture sector in the 2025 National Budget, reaffirming its commitment to expanding this crucial industry. This allocation, a 6% increase from 2024, highlights the government’s determination to ensure food security and diversify the country’s economy.

A substantial GY$13.3 billion is dedicated to revitalizing the sugar industry, aiming to restore its significance as a key economic driver. The rice industry will receive GY$430.9 million to increase storage capacity and introduce modern equipment for crop management. I am most pleased about this as it underscores the government’s continued commitment in further advancing these sectors.

To encourage diversification, a goal heavily campaigned on by President Irfaan Ali and the Agriculture Minister, GY$2.9 billion has been set aside for the cultivation of crops like corn, soya, spices, and high-value produce such as broccoli and cauliflower. Today, we have seen great strides in this sector. The growing coconut industry will also benefit from GY$116 million, supporting its expansion, much needed for its sustainability.

The agro-processing sector, which adds value to local produce, is earmarked for GY$800 million. This is set to fund the expansion of the Guyana Shop initiative, with 12 new locations planned across the country to promote locally made products under the “Made in Guyana” brand.

The livestock sector will see investments of GY$1.7 billion, with projects including the construction of a feed pelletizer storage facility and slaughtering facilities for pigs and ducks. Meanwhile, the fisheries and aquaculture sector will benefit from GY$1.3 billion, aimed at increasing shrimp ponds and improving monitoring of fishing activities. These investments are a timely reminder of a government that wants development for its people, the opposition with its crop of leaders can in no way achieve such a goal.

We must also take note of the GY$73.2 billion being allocated to upgrade the country’s drainage and irrigation systems, ensuring the resilience of agricultural lands against climate-related challenges. Already, the upgrades made over the last three years have made positive impacts for farmers.

These investments demonstrate a clear strategy to strengthen Guyana’s agriculture sector. By boosting production, diversifying crops, and modernizing infrastructure, the government is fostering economic resilience and creating new opportunities for growth. The 2025 budget represents a significant step toward reducing reliance on oil revenues while positioning Guyana as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture.

Sincerely,

Fawaz Harry.

(Guyana’s Agriculture Sector gets major boost in 2025 Budget)

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Agriculture Minister, crucial industry, Government of Guyana, President Irfaan Ali, storage capacity

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