Guyana Rejects Claims of Economic Decline Amid Oil Boom

The Ministry of Natural Resources has pushed back against claims that Guyana’s agriculture and fishing industries are collapsing due to oil production. Responding to criticism from businessman Glenn Lall, officials highlighted growth in key sectors, including a 24.6% increase in livestock production and a 10.9% expansion in crop farming. The government also defended its management of oil revenues, emphasizing that all expenditures are transparently recorded in the national budget. With oil revenues funding large-scale infrastructure and social programs, officials argue that Guyana’s economy is stronger than ever.

1,700 New House Lots Allocated in Region Six Housing Drive

The Ministry of Housing has allocated 1,761 house lots in Moleson Creek, Region Six, as part of its ‘Dream Realised’ initiative. The move is part of a broader effort to expand residential development, particularly in agricultural regions where land access is competitive. Infrastructure development contracts for the new housing areas were signed at the event. Officials say the initiative aligns with the government’s push to balance housing needs with agricultural sustainability.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SMEs)

Ideal for entrepreneurs or small teams with limited capital but high growth potential.

1. Digital Healthcare Support Services

• With the government investing $3.3 million in an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, there will be a demand for training, data entry, and IT support for healthcare providers adapting to digital records.

• SMEs can offer EHR training workshops for private doctors, small clinics, and pharmacies that may not have in-house expertise.

• Potential to provide consulting on cybersecurity compliance to avoid hefty fines for data breaches.

Note: Many small clinics and pharmacies still operate with paper-based systems and will need help transitioning.

2. Construction and Civil Works Subcontracting

• With 1,761 new house lots allocated in Moleson Creek and large-scale infrastructure projects (Demerara Bridge, school developments), small businesses can provide construction labor, materials supply, and finishing services (tiling, plumbing, painting).

• SMEs can also specialize in affordable home-building solutions, offering pre-designed, cost-effective housing models.

Note: Positioning as a reliable subcontractor for larger firms could lead to long-term contracts.

3. Women’s Leadership & Inclusion Consultancy

• The Oil & Gas Gender Equity Push has highlighted the need for more diversity in hiring and career advancement.

• Businesses can offer workshops, mentorship programs, and HR consulting to help companies meet gender inclusion targets.

• Services can include leadership training for women in male-dominated industries (oil & gas, construction).

Note: Government and corporate social responsibility (CSR) budgets are likely to support these initiatives.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

Companies with moderate capital investment capabilities and potential for regional expansion.

1. Cross-Border Logistics & Trade Facilitation with Brazil

• With Guyana seeking deeper economic ties with Northern Brazil, logistics firms can specialize in cross-border transportation, customs brokerage, and warehousing solutions.

• Specific demand areas include importation of Brazilian grains (soya, corn) and exporting Guyanese construction materials.

• Tech-enabled logistics services (freight tracking, digital customs processing) can create competitive differentiation.

Note: The upcoming Guyana-Brazil Road Transport Agreement will unlock significant growth potential.

2. Smart Housing Solutions for New Developments

• The housing expansion in Moleson Creek and Hogsty presents an opportunity for energy-efficient prefab housing or modular construction firms.

• Medium enterprises can offer solar-powered home packages, rainwater collection systems, and other smart home technology solutions.

• Potential to develop affordable housing communities with built-in green technology.

Note: Partnering with government housing projects could secure large contracts.

3. Data Security & Compliance for EHR System

• The $3.3M EHR system rollout means hospitals and clinics must comply with new data security laws.

• There is an opportunity to offer cybersecurity audits, data protection training, and digital compliance certification services.

• Managed IT security services can ensure clinics and hospitals stay compliant with privacy laws.

Note: Large fines for breaches (up to GYD $20M) make this an essential investment for healthcare providers.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

Companies with significant capital and infrastructure capacity for large-scale projects.

1. Port Development & Maritime Logistics for Brazil Trade

• With Brazil looking to expand trade routes through Guyana, there is a strong opportunity to invest in port infrastructure, dry docking services, and transshipment facilities.

• Investment in maritime logistics hubs could position Guyana as a key export hub for Northern Brazil.

• Integration with Guyana’s oil and gas supply chain would create an even stronger business case.

Note: Government support for trade infrastructure projects could provide incentives for investment.

2. Mining Technology & Environmental Compliance Services

• With the suspension of the Aranaputa mining license, the demand for responsible mining solutions is growing.

• Large enterprises can invest in sustainable mining technologies, environmental compliance consulting, and ESG-friendly extraction techniques.

• Developing automated monitoring systems for mining impact assessment could gain government approval and investor interest.

Note: Companies that align with environmental best practices will have a competitive advantage.

3. High-Value Manufacturing in Construction Materials

• As Guyana expands its housing sector, commercial real estate, and trade with Brazil, there is an opportunity for large firms to establish advanced material manufacturing plants.

• Key areas include precast concrete, steel fabrication, and high-quality insulation materials.

• With Guyana importing significant construction materials, local production could reduce costs and capture market share.

Note: Investments in factory automation and bulk material processing could significantly improve margins.

Final Thoughts

Guyana’s economy is at a major inflection point, with cross-border trade, digital transformation, and infrastructure growth creating massive business opportunities. Companies that move early into logistics, construction, data security, and ESG-compliant industries will gain a long-term advantage.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Digital Medical Records Assistance Service

Why It Works:

With the government launching a US$3.3M Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, hospitals, clinics, and private doctors will need data entry, digital record-keeping, and IT support services. Many medical offices in Guyana still use paper-based records and will struggle to transition smoothly.

How to Start:

• Offer freelance digital medical record services, including scanning, data entry, and organization for private doctors and small clinics.

• Provide EHR system setup and basic training for medical professionals unfamiliar with digital tools.

• Work evenings and weekends, targeting busy doctors who need after-hours administrative help.

Earnings Potential:

• Charge GYD $3,000–$6,000 per hour or a flat rate per patient file.

• With just 5 clients, each needing 10 hours of work per month, this could generate GYD $150,000–$300,000 monthly in extra income.

Scalability:

Once established, expand by hiring assistants or transitioning into a full-service health data management business.

2. Cross-Border Product Sourcing & Personal Importing

Why It Works:

The Guyana-Brazil trade expansion and new Partial Scope Agreement negotiations are opening up cheaper import options from Brazil. There is growing demand for specialty food items, construction materials, beauty products, and household goods that are not readily available or are expensive in Guyana.

How to Start:

• Use WhatsApp and Facebook Marketplace to source pre-orders for high-demand Brazilian products (e.g., cosmetics, electronics, cooking appliances, clothing).

• Travel to Boa Vista, Brazil, once a month to purchase and import small batches.

• Partner with bus and truck operators to handle cross-border transport cheaply.

Earnings Potential:

• A single trip with 20-30 pre-sold orders could yield GYD $200,000+ in profit per month.

• Demand is high for affordable, high-quality goods—offering delivery or easy pick-up locations increases sales.

Scalability:

Expand into a mini wholesale business by securing bulk discounts and collaborating with small retailers in Georgetown.

3. Real Estate & Housing Development Assistance

Why It Works:

With 1,700+ new house lots allocated in Moleson Creek, many new homeowners will be looking for affordable, time-saving solutions to build, furnish, and move in. There is high demand for budget-friendly home design assistance, furniture sourcing, and renovation coordination.

How to Start:

• Offer “Home Setup Packages” for new homeowners, including furniture sourcing, interior design advice, and contractor coordination.

• Leverage social media marketing (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook) to showcase housing trends, deals on furniture, and renovation tips.

• Partner with local hardware stores, furniture shops, and small contractors to offer special deals for referrals.

Earnings Potential:

• Charge GYD $50,000–$100,000 per client for sourcing and setup services.

• Working with just 3-5 homeowners per month could generate GYD $150,000–$500,000 monthly.

Scalability:

Expand into a home improvement consulting business or real estate management service for landlords looking to furnish rental properties.

Final Thoughts:

These side hustles take advantage of Guyana’s economic boom, new trade opportunities, and housing expansion while remaining low-risk, high-profit ventures that can be managed part-time. The key to success lies in leveraging digital tools (WhatsApp, TikTok, online marketplaces) and focusing on convenience for customers.