Gov’t to Build Major Grain Storage and Drying Facility in Essequibo

With rice yields surging due to improved varieties and farmer support, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced plans for a massive drying and storage facility along the Essequibo Coast. The infrastructure aims to solve logistical issues during harvests and sustain growth in the rice industry.

Key takeaway: Guyana’s rice industry is entering a new phase. This investment opens doors for logistics, agritech, and export infrastructure players.

Guyana to Open First World Trade Center in October

Guyana is set to debut the Caribbean’s first World Trade Center (WTC) on October 21, 2025, in Georgetown. Chairman Komal Samaroo confirmed the launch, aligning with Guyana’s rapid economic growth, fueled by energy, infrastructure, and foreign investment. Positioned to be a regional hub for global commerce, the WTC Georgetown aims to boost trade in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The opening precedes the World Trade Centers Association forum in New York, inviting global delegates to explore Guyana’s trade potential firsthand.

Business Insight: This WTC opening marks a major milestone in Guyana’s positioning as an international investment destination, likely increasing interest from multinational firms and trade delegations.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

SMALL ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITIES

1. Agri-Starter Kits & Shade House Installation Services

With 200 single-mother households in Port Mourant receiving support for livestock and honey production, a micro-enterprise offering bundled services—such as bee boxes, poultry pens, starter animal kits, or portable shade houses—would meet direct local demand. Partnerships with NGOs or the government could further expand reach.

Why it works: Capital-light, community-based, and aligned with a government-backed programme.

2. GNBS Compliance Support for Interior Businesses

Many interior and hinterland businesses are unfamiliar with legal metrology and GNBS standards. A compliance consultant or micro-agency offering training, verification audit support, and sourcing of certified measuring instruments could be a valuable B2B partner.

Why it works: GNBS is expanding regionally, and compliance will soon be enforced more stringently, especially for fuel stations and retailers.

3. Construction Support Services for New Homeowners

With 1,600 house lots just allocated on the East Coast and more across Region 6, there is strong demand for small-scale builders, block-making, plumbing, tiling, and painting services. Offering reliable labour teams, material sourcing, or “starter home” packages could serve this growing housing market.

Why it works: Homeowners with land and government subsidies are ready to build, but skilled trades are in short supply.

MEDIUM ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITIES

1. Grain Storage and Post-Harvest Logistics in Essequibo

The government's investment in a drying and storage facility signals high-volume production from rice farmers. A medium-sized firm could offer grain handling, quality testing, short-term storage leasing, and agri-logistics coordination across the region.

Why it works: Government is solving infrastructure gaps but will still need private sector efficiency and innovation.

2. Local Content Subcontracting: Specialized Engineering Services

With local firms now moving into subsea and pipeline services, there is space for medium-sized engineering companies to build capacity in niche areas like pipe coating, NDT testing, or specialty fabrication. Partnering with international providers can accelerate growth.

Why it works: The Local Content Act is being expanded, and Guyana wants more technical value added locally.

3. Rural Housing Development & Financing Facilitators

Region 6 and Region 4 are experiencing rapid housing expansion, with over 43,000 house lots distributed since 2020. A mid-sized firm could act as a turnkey housing developer or private mortgage facilitator, linking buyers with financing and managing construction at scale.

Why it works: Land is allocated, demand is high, and government infrastructure is being delivered quickly.

LARGE ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITIES

1. Berbice Port & Logistics Infrastructure Development

The announcement of a US$285 million port and the complementary mention of Exxon’s gas projects and a future fertilizer plant underscore Berbice’s rise as a logistics and energy hub. Large players can enter with warehousing, cold storage, bulk shipping, or integrated export terminals.

Why it works: First-mover advantage in a region poised to become the second-largest economic zone after Demerara.

2. Gas-to-Energy Support Ecosystem

Despite arbitration, the Gas-to-Energy project at Wales remains strategically important. Large-scale contractors, EPC firms, and industrial service providers can pursue supporting roles in transmission, substation buildouts, fuel logistics, or backup generation.

Why it works: The project will halve national electricity costs and is a government priority despite disputes.

3. National Housing & Cement Production Facility

With over 50,000 house lots expected and cement subsidies increasing, a cement plant or precast housing materials factory could capitalize on consistent demand. Vertical integration opportunities exist with real estate development arms, bulk transport, and state-backed financing.

Why it works: Demand is government-backed and sustained across multiple regions. Cement is a critical import substitute.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Custom Shade House Builder for Backyard Farmers

As government programs expand support for home-based agriculture—especially shade houses for single mothers—there is growing demand for basic construction of small agricultural units. A person with light carpentry or handyman skills can offer pre-priced packages for backyard installations (e.g., 10x10 or 10x20 ft units), targeting families in areas like Port Mourant or East Coast communities.

Why it works: Government is subsidizing agribusiness at the household level. One install per weekend can bring in meaningful income with low startup costs.

2. Regional Standards Agent (Product Inspection & Certification Helper)

Following the GNBS outreach in Regions 7 and 8, more businesses will need help ensuring their products and equipment meet national standards (e.g., scale calibration, correct labelling, food safety). A side hustler can become a mobile GNBS liaison—helping vendors get compliant, understand regulations, and prepare for inspections, for a small fee.

Why it works: It’s informational and service-based, great for teachers, salespeople, or anyone with communication skills and basic training in standards.

3. Home Design + Land Prep Concierge for New Allottees

With over 1,600 new house lots just issued and 43,000+ allocated since 2020, many new landowners are overwhelmed about where to start. A side hustler can offer a weekend service to help people plan basic house layouts, estimate costs, and connect with a list of affordable local contractors or masons. A small fee per consultation, plus referral commissions from service providers, can make it viable.

Why it works: Many families have land but no plan. You help organize their next steps and monetize the connection.