Major Agri & Drainage Upgrades for Corentyne

Guyana’s Ministry of Agriculture is ramping up drainage works across flood-prone Corentyne, with the NDIA set to deploy 40 mobile pumps by year-end. Specific programs targeting Port Mourant’s canal system will kick off next week. Additionally, a GLDA-GuySuCo partnership is exploring pasture development for cattle farming, boosting beef and dairy production. The ministry is also supporting vulnerable households with poultry projects aimed at income generation for single mothers.

IMF Says Oil Price Dip Won't Dampen Guyana’s Economic Momentum

Despite global oil prices dipping to US$66.94 per barrel, the IMF predicts minimal impact on Guyana’s macroeconomic projections. Thanks to rapid oil production growth and a strong non-oil economy, Guyana is expected to maintain double-digit GDP growth, with production hitting 900,000 barrels per day by year-end following the Yellowtail project startup.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Top 3 Small Enterprise Opportunities

1. Phytosanitary Compliance Consultancy & Agri Export Services

With President Ali highlighting the government's push to meet EU phytosanitary standards, small businesses can offer affordable consulting, documentation, and preparation services to local agri-exporters. This includes helping farmers and processors navigate certification processes, audit preparations, and logistics to EU markets.

Note: This service will be crucial for micro and small agri-processors looking to tap into the growing demand for coconut water, fresh fruits, and vegetables in Europe.

2. Local Blockchain Implementation Support for Record Keeping

Following VP Jagdeo's announcement on blockchain for public records, small tech firms can offer affordable blockchain-based record-keeping solutions for cooperatives, small miners, and property groups. Services could include blockchain-based land transaction verification or license management platforms.

Note: This is a niche but emerging area with potential for early adopters to create scalable SaaS models for mining and land sectors.

3. Community-Based Infrastructure Maintenance & Clean-Up Services

The national push for improved drainage and irrigation (D&I), starting at Port Mourant, signals demand for small contractors specializing in community clean-up, de-silting, vegetation clearing, and trench maintenance.

Note: Government is keen on replicating such models, creating recurring contract opportunities at the NDC and regional levels.

Top 3 Medium Enterprise Opportunities

1. Private Sector-Run Vocational & Tech Training Hubs

Given BIT’s renewed focus on technical training, there is room for private-sector training institutes to partner with BIT and the Ministry of Labour to establish regional hubs focusing on robotics, fabrication, and auto diagnostics.

Note: These can be PPP-style models, with curriculum alignment to national skills needs and potential expansion into other regions.

2. Agri-Export Processing & Packaging Facility

With the push for more coconut and fruit exports to Europe, a medium-scale processing facility that meets international standards (GMP, HACCP, EU standards) would fill a critical gap. This includes value-added packaging (e.g., coconut water in Tetra Paks, vacuum-packed produce).

Note: Government's export targets and infrastructure support will make this viable, especially if done in partnership with local cooperatives.

3. Decentralized Digital Identity & Document Verification Services

As blockchain enters public systems, medium enterprises can develop or license platforms that offer decentralized ID verification, land title verification, or mining license checks for businesses and government use.

Note: Positioned right, such platforms could scale regionally, aligning with Guyana’s digital transformation agenda.

Top 3 Large Enterprise Opportunities

1. Oil & Gas Logistics & Support Infrastructure Expansion

Despite oil price fluctuations, Guyana's oil production is on track to hit 900,000 b/d. Large logistics, transport, and supply chain firms can invest in ports, storage, bunkering, and vessel support infrastructure to service the booming offshore sector.

Note: The demand will remain strong into the late 2020s as additional FPSOs come online.

2. Integrated Agri-Industrial Export Parks

Given the government’s diversification drive, large-scale private-led agro-industrial parks integrating farming, processing, logistics, and exports can be positioned to supply the EU and regional markets. These parks could focus on coconut, fruits, vegetables, and aquaculture.

Note: PPP opportunities are likely, especially if aligned with government export corridors and EU trade facilitation programs.

3. Nationwide AI & Data Security Infrastructure Projects

Leveraging the government's focus on AI governance and data security, large IT firms can propose national-level projects for data centers, secure e-governance platforms, and AI-based monitoring systems.

Note: Early investment in AI ethics, data protection infrastructure, and digital public service transformation could position these companies as long-term partners to the state.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Mobile Fuel Pump Calibration & Compliance Checks

With over 1600 petroleum sector verifications done by GNBS last year and strict compliance standards, individuals with basic technical training could offer mobile pump calibration pre-check services for small gas station owners and fuel vendors.
This helps vendors avoid GNBS penalties while earning extra income on a flexible schedule.

Why it's smart:
Low-cost setup with high-demand service as private fuel stations expand outside Georgetown, especially in hinterland regions.

2. Drone-Based Land & Mining Claims Photography & Mapping

Given the push for blockchain land registry and miners' complaints of tampering, offering drone photography and GPS-based claim verification for small miners and farmers can be a high-value side hustle.
Clients get photographic proof and mapping for claims, which can support disputes and formal applications.

Why it's smart:
Minimal time investment per job, scalable as mining and agriculture expand into interior regions, and very few operators currently offer this service.

3. Pop-Up Local Snacks & Refreshments Stalls at Community Sports & Tech Events

With events like robotics fairs, Guinness street football tournaments, and tech skills expos increasing across regions, setting up pop-up stalls offering unique Guyanese snacks, coconut water, and beverages can be a lucrative side gig.
Focus on health-conscious, locally sourced items to tap into growing trends.

Why it's smart:
Low entry barrier, aligns with the events culture growing in regions outside Georgetown, and requires only weekend commitment.