Guyana Wins Big at Global Tourism Awards

Guyana has once again been recognized as a top-tier eco-tourism destination, winning ‘Destination of the Year: Natural Attractions’ at the 2025 PATWA International Awards. Additionally, Minister of Tourism Oneidge Walrond was named ‘Tourism Minister of the Year: Ecological Tourism’. These accolades, presented at ITB Berlin, reaffirm Guyana’s commitment to sustainable tourism, conservation, and responsible travel. Minister Walrond highlighted the country's breathtaking natural attractions—from Kaieteur Falls to pristine rainforests—and emphasized the government's efforts to protect these assets while fostering community-driven tourism initiatives.

IMF Praises Guyana’s Rapid Economic Growth and Strong Outlook

Guyana continues to post record-breaking economic growth, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reporting an average 47% real GDP growth from 2022 to 2024, the highest globally. The surge is driven by expanding oil production, a booming non-oil sector, and large-scale public infrastructure projects. The IMF forecasts 10.25% GDP growth for 2025, with the non-oil economy projected to grow by 13%.

While inflation is expected to rise slightly to 4%, Guyana’s fiscal deficit is predicted to shrink to below 5% in 2025 as oil revenues increase. The IMF commended the government’s fiscal policies but warned about potential overheating risks. The report also highlighted Guyana’s progress in governance, financial regulation, and anti-corruption measures, alongside major social and infrastructure investments. With sustained oil-driven expansion, the IMF projects an annual 14% growth rate over the next five years.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SMEs)

1. Local Product Branding & Distribution – Leveraging ‘Freshness is Domestic’

   • Opportunity: The Banks DIH ‘Freshness is Domestic’ campaign highlights the growing market demand for locally made products. Small businesses can capitalize on this by developing niche Guyanese-branded food, beverage, and artisanal products.

   • Execution: SMEs can produce or distribute high-quality packaged snacks, craft beverages, sauces, condiments, or eco-friendly packaging solutions that align with the campaign's messaging.

   • Notes: Businesses should explore partnerships with Banks DIH and other local manufacturers to co-brand or white-label their products. Leveraging social media and local retail placements (supermarkets, hotels, and bars) will be crucial.

2. Eco-Tourism Experiences & Accommodation – Supporting Guyana’s Global Recognition

   • Opportunity: Guyana's ‘Destination of the Year – Natural Attractions’ award positions it as a growing eco-tourism hub. Small operators can establish eco-lodges, guided nature experiences, or cultural immersion tours.

   • Execution: Focus on day tours, adventure treks, indigenous community experiences, and nature retreats. Offer customizable experiences for travelers seeking sustainable tourism.

   • Notes: Digital marketing and partnerships with international travel agencies and influencers can significantly boost visibility. Tapping into grants or funding from conservation-focused organizations could help with startup costs.

3. Compliance & Risk Advisory for Small Businesses – Navigating Sanctions & Financial Regulations

   • Opportunity: The OFAC sanctions on Mohamed’s Enterprise highlight the risks of doing business with blacklisted entities. Many SMEs may be unaware of compliance requirements.

   • Execution: Develop affordable compliance consulting services to help SMEs navigate financial risks, due diligence, and secure legitimate trade relationships.

   • Notes: Target retailers, wholesalers, and financial service providers that need clear guidance on maintaining regulatory compliance.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Renewable Energy & Efficiency Solutions – Capitalizing on the Gas-to-Energy Project

   • Opportunity: As the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project moves forward, businesses that provide solar energy, energy-efficient appliances, and industrial power solutions will have a growing market.

   • Execution: Energy audit services, installation of solar panels, hybrid energy solutions, and industrial energy consulting will be valuable as businesses look to cut power costs.

   • Notes: Government incentives and corporate partnerships could accelerate growth. Medium-sized enterprises should explore contracts with industrial parks, hotels, and commercial office spaces.

2. Infrastructure & Logistics Support for Guyana’s Expanding Tourism Industry

   • Opportunity: Guyana’s continued recognition in eco-tourism will lead to increased demand for improved transportation, accommodations, and tourism infrastructure.

   • Execution: Invest in boutique hotels, high-quality transport services (VIP shuttles, river tours, or aviation charters), and curated travel experiences.

   • Notes: Establishing strong ties with the Guyana Tourism Authority and foreign travel agencies could ensure steady demand. Digital platforms that facilitate easy booking for transportation and lodging will create added value.

3. Security & Due Diligence Services – Mitigating Business Risks in a Changing Market

   • Opportunity: With gold smuggling crackdowns and OFAC sanctions, businesses need enhanced security, compliance, and investigative services.

   • Execution: Offer corporate security assessments, background checks, and financial risk analysis for companies engaged in trade, logistics, and financial services.

   • Notes: Establish partnerships with banks, government agencies, and large corporations looking to safeguard operations from illicit dealings.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Investment in Agro-Processing for Local & Export Markets

   • Opportunity: The Banks DIH campaign and national focus on local production create a ripe environment for large-scale agro-processing.

   • Execution: Develop modern facilities for drying, packaging, and exporting fruits, vegetables, and spices, focusing on value-added products like dehydrated fruits, cassava flour, and coconut-based goods.

   • Notes: Strategic partnerships with farmer cooperatives and supermarket chains will ensure a steady supply chain. Securing FDA approval and branding for export markets should be a priority.

2. Large-Scale Eco-Tourism Investments & Resort Development

   • Opportunity: Guyana’s global tourism recognition suggests increased demand for premium eco-lodging, adventure tourism, and luxury nature retreats.

   • Execution: Large enterprises should consider developing high-end eco-resorts, private jungle lodges, or adventure hubs to attract high-value international travelers.

   • Notes: Access to international hospitality investors and tourism-focused grants could help reduce capital expenditure. Sustainability certification (e.g., Rainforest Alliance) could boost marketability.

3. Petrochemical & Industrial Services for the Gas-to-Energy Sector

   • Opportunity: The Gas-to-Energy project arbitration signals a continued commitment to energy infrastructure, presenting huge business opportunities in engineering, construction, and petrochemical services.

   • Execution: Companies can expand into pipeline maintenance, industrial safety solutions, refinery support services, and large-scale logistics for gas-related industries.

   • Notes: Securing government contracts and forming joint ventures with established energy service providers will be key. Additionally, companies should prepare to scale operations as oil and gas output increases.

Final Thoughts & Strategic Takeaways

• Government-Backed Initiatives: Many of today’s developments, including local manufacturing promotions, energy infrastructure, and tourism growth, align with national economic strategies. Companies should leverage government incentives, grants, and subsidies.

• Regulatory Awareness: The OFAC sanctions and gold smuggling crackdowns highlight the importance of compliance and risk management, making this an opportune time for businesses to invest in security, due diligence, and financial advisory services.

• Sustainable Growth: The global recognition of Guyana’s tourism industry signals strong demand for eco-friendly business models, including green energy, sustainable hospitality, and conservation-driven enterprises.

• Oil & Gas Expansion: The Gas-to-Energy project’s arbitration may delay full implementation, but long-term opportunities in power generation, industrial development, and logistics remain strong.

By focusing on scalability, compliance, and sustainable expansion, businesses at all levels can capitalize on Guyana’s evolving economic landscape.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Curated Guyanese Snack & Beverage Subscription Box

Opportunity: The Banks DIH ‘Freshness is Domestic’ campaign highlights the growing consumer interest in locally made snacks, beverages, and specialty food products. This presents an opportunity to create a subscription-based delivery service featuring Guyanese-branded goods for local and diaspora markets.

How It Works:

• Partner with local manufacturers (e.g., Banks DIH, Tastee Snacks, Rainforest Water) to curate monthly themed snack boxes.

• Offer subscription tiers for local delivery and international shipping, targeting expats and diaspora communities in the US, Canada, and the UK.

• Promote through social media, influencer partnerships, and corporate gifting packages.

Why It Works:

• Low startup costs—requires minimal inventory and runs on a pre-order model.

• Targets Guyanese national pride and nostalgia, which is a strong purchasing motivator.

• Opportunity to expand into personalized gift boxes for corporate clients and tourism-related packages.

Initial Investment: GYD $100,000 – $300,000 (Packaging, website, and initial product stock)
Potential Monthly Revenue: GYD $300,000 – $1,000,000

2. Mobile Compliance & Business Registration Consultant

Opportunity: With sanctions, regulatory crackdowns, and financial oversight increasing, many small businesses and side hustlers in Guyana need help navigating compliance—from business registration, licensing, and tax filing to financial recordkeeping.

How It Works:

• Help small businesses, online sellers, and informal traders register their businesses properly (sole trader, partnership, LLC).

• Offer affordable compliance checkups to help businesses ensure they are not violating anti-money laundering (AML) or tax regulations.

• Provide mobile services (e.g., visiting businesses, online consultations via WhatsApp/Zoom) to cater to busy professionals.

Why It Works:

• No office needed—home-based and online-friendly.

• Government push for better regulatory compliance makes this a growing need.

• Easy to market via LinkedIn, WhatsApp business groups, and local business networks.

Initial Investment: GYD $50,000 – $200,000 (Legal document templates, website, marketing)
Potential Monthly Revenue: GYD $250,000 – $700,000

3. High-Quality Executive Transport & Business Travel Concierge

Opportunity: With increased foreign investment, corporate travel, and high-net-worth professionals visiting Guyana, there is a demand for executive transport services that offer a premium alternative to regular taxis.

How It Works:

• Offer a pre-booked executive transport service (e.g., airport pickups, business meetings, oil & gas site visits) for corporate travelers, expats, and investors.

• Provide chauffeur-style services using a premium vehicle—consider renting a car or partnering with an existing driver if you don’t own one.

• Expand into business travel concierge services, including hotel bookings, business meeting coordination, and private security add-ons.

Why It Works:

• Guyana’s business travel market is expanding due to oil & gas and tourism growth.

• Corporate clients prefer reliable, discreet, and premium transportation services.

• Can charge higher rates than regular taxis, and repeat customers (business travelers, investors) create stable income.

Initial Investment: GYD $300,000 – $1,000,000 (Car rental, branding, website, insurance)
Potential Monthly Revenue: GYD $500,000 – $2,000,000

Final Thoughts

Each of these side hustle ideas leverages Guyana’s current economic growth trends while remaining feasible for professionals who already have full-time jobs. The key is to focus on value-added services that command premium pricing, require minimal overhead, and align with Guyana’s evolving business landscape.