Guyana Engages U.S. for Favorable Trade Terms Amid Global Tariff Shifts

As the U.S. government considers imposing tariffs on key trade partners, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to securing favorable trade agreements. The government is closely monitoring potential shifts in U.S. trade policy under the new administration and is considering hiring lobbyists to advocate for Caribbean trade interests. Guyana has historically benefited from preferential treatment in trade with the U.S., and officials are working to ensure these advantages remain intact. This effort is particularly important as Guyana expands its agricultural and manufacturing sectors for export.

Guyana Launches Number Portability for Telecom Subscribers

Guyana's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced that number portability is now in effect, allowing customers to switch telecom providers while keeping their existing phone numbers. The service is available for both mobile and fixed-line users across Digicel, ENet, and One Communications. The porting process requires customers to visit their new service provider’s retail store, clear any outstanding balances, and ensure their devices are compatible with the new network. The transition for mobile numbers will take one business day, while landline users can expect a five-day process. This development is expected to enhance competition among telecom providers and improve service quality for consumers.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (Startups & Small Businesses)

Best for businesses with low capital investment, minimal infrastructure, and a focus on agility and service-based models.

1. Telecom Services & Mobile Retail Support (Based on Number Portability Rollout)

• Opportunity: With number portability now available, customers will be switching between telecom providers. This creates demand for independent mobile service vendors who can facilitate SIM swaps, phone unlocking, and compatibility checks.

• Business Idea: A mobile SIM activation and unlocking service, helping customers transition between providers smoothly.

• Revenue Model: Charge a service fee per transaction or earn commissions by partnering with telecom retailers.

• Additional Opportunity: Selling dual-SIM unlocked phones, SIM card adaptors, and network-optimized devices.

2. Solar Installation & Maintenance Services (Based on Onderneeming Solar Farm)

• Opportunity: The rapid expansion of solar energy in Guyana creates a need for trained professionals to install and maintain solar panels, especially as businesses and homeowners look to lower electricity costs.

• Business Idea: A small solar installation service that focuses on residential and small commercial setups.

• Revenue Model: Installation fees, maintenance contracts, and potential sales of solar batteries/inverters.

• Market Note: The government’s push for renewable energy means there could be grants or subsidies available.

3. Fertilizer & Agricultural Input Distribution (Based on Pulses & Livestock Sector Expansion)

• Opportunity: With Guyana ramping up production of pulses and livestock, demand for fertilizer, animal feed, and farm-related inputs will increase.

• Business Idea: A small-scale agricultural supply business providing organic fertilizers, livestock feed, and growth supplements.

• Revenue Model: Direct sales to farmers, partnerships with government programs, and retail distribution.

• Market Note: With the government promoting self-sufficiency, farmers will need affordable and locally available supplies.

Medium Enterprises (Growing Businesses with Some Infrastructure & Capital)

Best for businesses looking to expand or enter high-growth industries with moderate capital investment.

1. Logistics & Supply Chain Management (Based on Gas-to-Energy & Agricultural Expansion)

• Opportunity: With the Gas-to-Energy project and new agricultural exports (pulses, livestock, fertilizers), supply chains will become more complex, requiring efficient logistics solutions.

• Business Idea: A logistics and distribution company that specializes in transporting agricultural products, fertilizers, and fuel-based goods.

• Revenue Model: Contract logistics for large farms, storage and distribution services, and value-added services like cold storage for perishables.

• Market Note: Guyana’s export push means improved logistics will be essential.

2. Security & Risk Management Services (Based on Telecom Competition & Retail Crime)

• Opportunity: As telecom operators and retailers see increased competition, they will need better security and risk management strategies to protect their assets, data, and transactions.

• Business Idea: A security consulting firm that offers telecom fraud prevention, cyber risk management, and physical security for retailers handling large cash transactions.

• Revenue Model: Service contracts, security audits, and training workshops.

• Market Note: Guyana’s rising business competition and crime rates make this a strong market.

3. Commercial Real Estate Development (Based on Housing Expansion in Linden & National Infrastructure Growth)

• Opportunity: With housing projects and government initiatives expanding in Linden and beyond, demand for commercial spaces (shops, offices, warehouses) will rise.

• Business Idea: A company that develops and leases small commercial properties near new residential projects.

• Revenue Model: Rental income, lease agreements, and property appreciation.

• Market Note: With the government targeting 25,000 housing units, retail and service providers will need spaces near these new developments.

Large Enterprises (High Capital Investment & Industry-Leading Potential)

Best for businesses with significant funding, scalability, and long-term growth plans.

1. Gas-to-Energy Industrial Ventures (Based on Guyana’s Energy Expansion)

• Opportunity: With the Gas-to-Energy project set to cut electricity costs by 50%, high-energy manufacturing and industrial processing will become more viable.

• Business Idea: A large-scale fertilizer production plant or industrial food processing facility leveraging cheap power.

• Revenue Model: Large-scale production, exports within CARICOM, and government contracts.

• Market Note: The government is actively promoting value-added industries, making this an ideal time for investment.

2. Large-Scale Agro-Processing & Exports (Based on Pulses & Livestock Development)

• Opportunity: Guyana is investing heavily in agricultural production, and there is a growing opportunity to process raw agricultural goods into export-ready products.

• Business Idea: A major agro-processing facility producing packaged pulses (beans, channa, lentils), dried fruits, or organic animal feed.

• Revenue Model: Wholesale supply, government contracts, and regional exports.

• Market Note: With Guyana aiming to become an agricultural exporter, large enterprises in processing can dominate this emerging market.

3. High-End Technology & Customs Digitalization (Based on Immigration Overhaul & Trade Expansion)

• Opportunity: With Guyana digitizing immigration and customs services, there will be demand for high-tech solutions such as AI-powered border control, automated trade compliance, and blockchain-based customs tracking.

• Business Idea: A tech firm specializing in customs automation, border security software, and AI-driven trade monitoring.

• Revenue Model: Government contracts, subscription-based software, and licensing fees.

• Market Note: As Guyana modernizes its trade and border infrastructure, firms offering digital solutions will have strong government backing.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

• For Small Enterprises: Focus on service-based businesses with low overhead, especially in telecom, energy, and agriculture.

• For Medium Enterprises: Look at logistics, security, and commercial real estate to support Guyana’s growing economy.

• For Large Enterprises: The Gas-to-Energy project is the biggest game-changer—invest in industrial and tech-driven opportunities.

Next Moves:

1. Research Grants & Incentives – The government is actively supporting certain industries, especially renewable energy and agriculture.

2. Explore Partnerships – International firms are needed for tech and energy investments.

3. Secure Land & Infrastructure – For medium-to-large enterprises, acquiring land in growth zones like Wales and Linden will be key.

4. Monitor Government Policy – With trade and customs regulations evolving, compliance and lobbying will be important.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Specialized Cargo & Small-Scale Importing Service

Opportunity:

With Guyana’s increasing trade ties, the growth of e-commerce, and the rising cost of imported goods, there is strong demand for affordable and reliable small-scale importing services. Many individuals and businesses struggle with importing small batches of high-demand products due to high shipping costs and complex customs procedures.

How to Make Money:

• Offer a small-scale cargo service, helping individuals and small businesses import niche products (electronics, business supplies, fashion items, specialty food ingredients) from the US, China, and Trinidad.

• Charge a service fee per pound, per item, or a percentage of the total order cost.

• Specialize in importing business-related supplies, such as restaurant equipment, industrial tools, office supplies, or cosmetics.

• Partner with local delivery services to handle last-mile distribution.

What You Need to Start:

• A reliable freight forwarder or partner in the US or China.

• A WhatsApp Business or Facebook page for orders and tracking.

• A system for bundling and consolidating orders to lower shipping costs.

Why This Works:
Guyana’s import-dependent economy makes this a sustainable, long-term business. Unlike large-scale importers, a specialized small-import service can focus on high-demand items and offer personalized assistance to small businesses and individuals.

2. High-End Property Management for Business Travelers & Expats

Opportunity:

Guyana’s expanding oil sector and increasing foreign investment mean more business travelers, consultants, and expatriates are seeking short-term, high-end rental accommodations. Many property owners lack the time or expertise to manage rentals professionally, creating a need for premium property management services.

How to Make Money:

• Manage high-end short-term rentals for property owners, handling bookings, guest services, and maintenance for a fee.

• Charge a percentage of rental income (10-20%) or a flat management fee per month.

• Offer corporate leasing services to oil & gas professionals, diplomats, and business travelers.

• Upsell concierge services, including airport pickup, stocked fridges, or guided business tours.

What You Need to Start:

• Partnerships with real estate agents and property owners.

• A website or WhatsApp Business account to market properties and take bookings.

• Agreements with cleaning and maintenance service providers.

Why This Works:
Guyana’s business sector is growing, and many short-term visitors prefer managed rentals over hotels. A well-run property management service could eventually scale into a full business with multiple properties under management.

3. AI-Powered Resume & LinkedIn Optimization Service

Opportunity:

Guyana’s workforce is rapidly evolving due to the oil sector boom and an influx of multinational companies. Many professionals lack well-structured resumes and LinkedIn profiles, making it difficult to secure high-paying jobs in growing industries. AI-powered tools now make resume building and job applications more efficient, creating a niche for personalized, premium career services.

How to Make Money:

• Use AI tools (ChatGPT, Resume.io, Canva, LinkedIn AI Assistants) to optimize resumes and LinkedIn profiles for professionals.

• Offer tiered packages, including resume writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, and cover letter creation.

• Provide one-on-one coaching on interview techniques and job application strategies.

• Charge GYD $10,000 – $25,000 per resume package, with add-ons for custom LinkedIn profiles and job application coaching.

What You Need to Start:

• Familiarity with AI-powered resume builders and job market trends.

• A simple website or WhatsApp Business page for orders.

• Partnerships with recruitment agencies or HR professionals to get referrals.

Why This Works:
Guyana’s job market is expanding, and professionals need to stand out to secure high-income opportunities. With minimal startup costs, this side hustle can generate quick income and grow into a full-time career coaching service over time.

Final Takeaways:

• Best for Quick Profits: Small-Scale Cargo & Importing Service (Immediate demand, fast turnaround)

• Best for Long-Term Growth: High-End Property Management (Scalable, growing market)

• Best for Low-Cost Startup: AI-Powered Resume & LinkedIn Optimization (Requires only expertise, high margins)

Each of these ideas leverages major economic trends in Guyana and offers a high return on investment with minimal startup costs. The key to success is specialization, quality service, and smart marketing.