Guyana to Boost Agricultural Exports, Gov’t Steps in to Market Plantains

President Irfaan Ali has pledged government support to help farmers secure fair prices for their produce, particularly plantains, following concerns from growers in Hague, West Coast Demerara. During an impromptu meeting, Ali assured that the government would step in to buy plantains at the prevailing wholesale rate of GYD 60 per pound, ensuring stability in the market. He also urged farmers to set fair prices to prevent excessive imports of Brazilian produce, emphasizing the need for balance between producer and consumer interests. With agriculture being a key part of Guyana’s economy, the administration is ramping up efforts to increase local food production and strengthen supply chains. The 2025 budget has allocated GYD 104.6 billion to agriculture, the sector’s largest-ever investment.

$300M Infrastructure Upgrade to Boost Guyana’s Fishing Industry

The government is investing $300 million GYD to build a ramp, a small wharf, and dredge waterways at Mon Repos to improve conditions for fisherfolk. The project, expected to be completed in two months, will provide better access for boats, enhanced security, and infrastructure upgrades like solar lighting and fish-cleaning tables. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the move aligns with President Irfaan Ali’s promise to support the fishing sector, which employs thousands across Guyana.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. Career Fair Resume & Interview Preparation Services

   • Opportunity: With El Dorado Offshore (EDO) hosting a major career fair, there will be an influx of job seekers looking to make a strong impression.

   • Potential Business: Offer resume writing, interview coaching, and professional LinkedIn profile setup services.

   • Notes: This can be marketed through social media and in partnership with training institutes attending the event. Even a mobile kiosk at the event could be effective.

2. Specialized Fishing Gear & Equipment Sales

   • Opportunity: The $300M investment in Mon Repos' fishing infrastructure will enhance operations for fisherfolk, increasing demand for better gear.

   • Potential Business: Import and sell higher-quality nets, cooling boxes, and GPS fish-finding technology.

   • Notes: Establish supplier partnerships early to be among the first to cater to the upgraded fishing facilities.

3. Oil & Gas Offshore Logistics Support Services

   • Opportunity: The Bell and Omni Helicopters evaluation program for offshore operations will create increased helicopter movements and offshore workforce transportation needs.

   • Potential Business: Offer services like personal protective equipment (PPE) rentals, offshore survival kits, or transport logistics support for offshore workers.

   • Notes: Engage with local aviation and offshore support companies to offer tailored services.

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Offshore Catering & Food Supply Chain for Oil Workers

   • Opportunity: With Bell and Omni testing advanced helicopter operations, offshore worker transport will increase, requiring consistent, high-quality catering services.

   • Potential Business: Establish a food supply chain providing fresh and frozen meal kits to offshore vessels and oil rigs.

   • Notes: Partner with established oil service companies and helicopter operators to integrate into their logistics supply.

2. Employment & Skills Training Center

   • Opportunity: The career fair highlights a growing demand for specialized skills in logistics, marine, and energy industries.

   • Potential Business: Develop a vocational training center focused on offshore operations, aviation logistics, and skilled trades such as welding and industrial safety.

   • Notes: This business would benefit from partnerships with training institutes like MATPAL and 3T-ENERMACH.

3. Smart Fisheries Data & Cold Storage Solutions

   • Opportunity: The government’s investment in Mon Repos' fishing industry will require advanced logistics for fresh seafood exports.

   • Potential Business: Develop digital inventory tracking software for fisheries, or invest in a shared cold storage and distribution service for local fisherfolk.

   • Notes: An export-focused approach could open new revenue streams, especially with Guyana's growing international trade.

Top 3 Business Opportunities for Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Guyana-Based Oil Refinery Development

   • Opportunity: Guyana’s government is considering exporting crude oil to the U.S. for refining, but there’s a long-term need for domestic refining capabilities.

   • Potential Business: Establish a mid-sized refinery in partnership with government and private investors.

   • Notes: The government’s willingness to explore refining projects means early movers could secure incentives and long-term contracts.

2. Luxury Business & Trade Networking Events

   • Opportunity: BritCham Guyana’s 2025 event at Stamford Bridge signals increased UK-Guyana trade.

   • Potential Business: Organize high-end business networking and investor summits in both Guyana and the UK to connect key stakeholders in oil, infrastructure, and trade.

   • Notes: With Guyana now the UK’s largest Caribbean trade partner, exclusive B2B events could attract significant investment.

3. Advanced Helicopter Operations & Fleet Leasing for Offshore Missions

   • Opportunity: Bell and Omni Helicopters are evaluating the Bell 525 for offshore oil missions.

   • Potential Business: Develop a regional helicopter leasing and maintenance company focused on long-range offshore operations.

   • Notes: This could be a joint venture with global aviation firms, ensuring Guyana becomes a hub for offshore helicopter logistics.

Final Thoughts

• Government investment in fishing and oil-related infrastructure signals clear opportunities for supply chain businesses.

• Guyana's push for foreign investment and economic expansion makes networking and trade facilitation services highly profitable.

• Oil refining remains a long-term but highly lucrative space, with potential for large-scale investment.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Offshore Worker Prep & Consultation Services

• Why it works: With Guyana's booming oil sector and the El Dorado Offshore Career Fair highlighting job opportunities, many locals are trying to enter the offshore industry but lack the necessary certifications, resume formatting, or application guidance.

• How to execute: Offer a specialized service that helps job seekers craft industry-specific resumes, navigate application processes, and prepare for offshore work (including advice on certifications like HUET, BOSIET, and safety training).

• Scalability: Start as a personal service (charging per resume review or consultation) and expand into online courses or workshops.

• Earnings Potential: GYD $10,000 – $25,000 per session; premium package deals for multiple services.

2. High-End Fishing & Seafood Home Delivery Service

• Why it works: With the government investing $300 million into Mon Repos’ fishing infrastructure, seafood availability and quality will improve. However, many high-income professionals and expatriates prefer convenience over market visits.

• How to execute: Partner with local fisherfolk to source premium fresh catch and offer same-day or next-day home delivery of cleaned, packaged seafood. A subscription model for weekly seafood boxes (snapper, shrimp, lobster, etc.) can create recurring revenue.

• Scalability: Start by taking orders via WhatsApp and Instagram, then move to a simple e-commerce site or app as demand grows.

• Earnings Potential: GYD $15,000 – $50,000 per week, depending on order volume.

3. Oil & Gas Industry Corporate Shuttle & Private Transport Service

• Why it works: With Bell and Omni Helicopters expanding offshore flight operations, executives, engineers, and oil industry workers need reliable transport between Georgetown, Ogle, and heliports. Many companies offer high salaries but limited private transport options.

• How to execute: Start a premium shuttle service focused on airport-to-heliport transfers, early-morning pickups, and high-end private car services for oil executives. Renting or financing a high-end vehicle (SUV or executive sedan) can add exclusivity.

• Scalability: Begin with one vehicle, using direct outreach to oil companies, then scale by adding more vehicles or corporate partnerships.

• Earnings Potential: GYD $30,000 – $150,000 per week, depending on frequency and clientele.

Final Thoughts

• Each of these side hustles taps into Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy, particularly oil and infrastructure growth.

• They require minimal initial investment (besides transport for #3) but have strong revenue potential.

• Early movers will benefit from securing corporate clients and building customer trust before the market becomes saturated.