GuySuCo Struggles to Meet Sugar Production Targets

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is voicing concerns over the underperformance of the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) this year. With only 39% of its 63,276-tonne target achieved, GAWU is questioning management's preparedness and effectiveness, especially as drought conditions lower sucrose content in the cane. Despite good weather for mechanized harvesting, production has remained low, which the union attributes partly to outdated practices and management decisions. GAWU urges immediate improvements in managerial strategy, suggesting that the industry’s success relies on more capable oversight.

$1 Billion Allocated for Housing Development in Mahdia

In response to resident concerns in Region Eight’s capital, Mahdia, Minister of Housing Collin Croal announced a new $1 billion housing initiative. This project will address pressing housing needs, especially for low-income residents. The ministry also plans to drill additional wells to alleviate water shortages exacerbated by a prolonged dry season. Minister Croal emphasized that these efforts reflect the government’s commitment to improving living conditions in underserved areas.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Business Opportunities for Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. Solar Technology Resale and Installation Services

   • Opportunity: Small businesses can leverage Green Power Solutions’ affordable solar technology to establish a niche in solar panel installation and maintenance. With growing interest in solar as a side income source, SEs can offer accessible solutions, including setup, monitoring, and customer service.

   • Notes: This could be structured as a subscription service, with affordable maintenance options to ensure ongoing revenue.

2. Local Artisanal Goods in Marriott Courtyard Hotel Gift Shops

   • Opportunity: The upcoming Marriott Courtyard Hotel will cater to a variety of international travelers, presenting an opportunity for small businesses to supply locally made goods like soaps, handcrafts, and souvenirs.

   • Notes: Guyanese-made products with a strong local flair can appeal to tourists and business travelers looking for authentic items to take home, boosting local brand exposure.

3. Sustainable, Locally-Grown Fresh Produce for the Agro-Processing Facility

   • Opportunity: Small-scale farmers could supply local produce like rice, cassava, and fresh herbs directly to the new West Bank agro-processing facility.

   • Notes: This opportunity includes tapping into a reliable, ongoing demand with a focus on sustainable farming practices, which aligns well with the facility’s green initiative.

4. Mobile Health Screening Units in Rural Areas

   • Opportunity: Inspired by the Mount Sinai partnership, small enterprises could offer mobile screening services for communities lacking access to healthcare facilities.

   • Notes: This business could coordinate with government programs to bridge healthcare access gaps, addressing screenings for vision, dental, and other common issues.

5. Shrimp and Fish Feed for Aquaculture in Berbice

   • Opportunity: The aquaculture industry in Berbice is booming, and there’s an opportunity for SEs to provide affordable and high-quality shrimp feed or fish food.

   • Notes: This venture could work with the government and aquaculture cooperatives to ensure that feed is tailored to local needs and remains cost-effective.

Business Opportunities for Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

   • Opportunity: Medium-sized businesses could capitalize on the rise in electric car adoption by setting up charging stations around Georgetown and the CJIA area, powered by Green Power Solutions’ solar technology.

   • Notes: These could be placed near high-traffic areas like shopping malls, hotels, and airports. Charging station installations could attract partnerships with local businesses and hotels to draw more foot traffic.

2. Warehousing and Logistics Solutions for Marriott and Upcoming Hotels

   • Opportunity: With the new Marriott Courtyard Hotel and other hospitality investments, a logistics company could support supply chains by storing and managing hotel supplies, including linens, toiletries, and food and beverage.

   • Notes: There’s a strong need for just-in-time delivery systems for international brands like Marriott, which will require seamless logistics to maintain consistent guest experiences.

3. Waste Management Solutions for Agro-Processing Plants

   • Opportunity: With the new agro-processing facility emphasizing green solutions, a business could provide specialized waste management services, such as composting, recycling, and efficient waste disposal for by-products.

   • Notes: The facility’s focus on minimizing environmental impact opens the door for companies to develop eco-friendly waste processing partnerships.

4. Microfinancing for Farmers in Aquaculture and Shrimp Production

   • Opportunity: With the rise in shrimp production, farmers may seek financing to scale operations. A microfinance business could offer tailored loans or leasing programs for essential equipment.

   • Notes: This business could work with government programs that support aquaculture to offer low-interest or government-backed loans, helping farmers expand while creating a reliable revenue stream.

5. Digitized Payroll Solutions for Growing Workforce in Manufacturing and Hospitality

   • Opportunity: As the manufacturing and hospitality sectors expand, payroll services that support the unique needs of these industries are valuable. A medium-sized business could provide software solutions for payroll, tracking, and employee scheduling.

   • Notes: Features could include multi-currency support, automated tax calculations, and employee self-service to reduce HR administrative time and support a growing workforce.

Business Opportunities for Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Aquaculture Feed Production Facility

   • Opportunity: Large enterprises could develop a dedicated production facility to manufacture high-quality shrimp feed, meeting the expanding demand from the aquaculture sector in Berbice.

   • Notes: Investment in R&D to develop specialized feed could improve yields, potentially making it an essential supplier across Guyana and beyond as the aquaculture industry scales.

2. Healthcare Data Management and Analytics Platform

   • Opportunity: In partnership with Mount Sinai and the government, a technology firm could establish a health data management platform to facilitate the growing school health screening initiative and support Guyana’s healthcare decentralization.

   • Notes: This platform could include electronic health records, diagnostic reporting, and secure patient portals, creating a more connected and responsive healthcare system across the country.

3. Sustainable Packaging Manufacturing for Agro-Processing

   • Opportunity: With a $5.5 million investment in agro-processing, an opportunity exists for a large enterprise to provide sustainable, compostable, or recyclable packaging solutions for processed foods and products.

   • Notes: This manufacturing facility could integrate with the agro-processing industry, where sustainable packaging is increasingly preferred and adds value to Guyanese exports.

4. Hotel Chain Expansion & Development in Region Eight (Mahdia)

   • Opportunity: Given the government’s $1 billion investment in Mahdia housing and water infrastructure, there’s a ripe opportunity for a large hotel chain to establish mid-sized hotels or guest houses that cater to tourists and workers in the region.

   • Notes: This project could include training programs for local hospitality workers, creating jobs while capitalizing on Mahdia’s anticipated growth as infrastructure improves.

5. Manufacturing Hub for Local Supermarkets and Distribution Networks

   • Opportunity: A large enterprise could establish a wholesale distribution center focusing on Guyanese-made products, catering to local supermarkets and competing with Chinese-owned stores.

   • Notes: This hub could emphasize value-added goods, reducing dependence on imports and creating a local supply chain to maintain product quality, diversity, and cultural relevance.

6. Insurance Products Tailored to Aquaculture and Agro-Processing

   • Opportunity: Given the rapid growth in aquaculture and agro-processing, there’s an opportunity to develop specialized insurance products for these industries.

   • Notes: With climate risks impacting agriculture, insurance solutions covering crop loss, aquaculture stock, and equipment could be highly beneficial. A large enterprise could lead this by offering flexible, affordable policies with government support.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Solar Power Resale and Installation Consultant

• Overview: Given the rising interest in solar power, thanks to companies like Green Power Solutions offering user-friendly solar systems, a part-time solar consultant and reseller role could be highly lucrative. This role involves educating customers on the benefits of solar, selling solar kits, and connecting buyers with professional installers.

• How It Works: Partner with Green Power Solutions or similar providers to offer a turnkey solution for small businesses and homeowners. You can resell solar units, set up consultations, and earn a commission on every sale or installation. This could also include basic maintenance training and support.

• Why It’s High-Value: Solar power has become a trending solution in Guyana for power stability and cost savings. This side hustle allows for passive income through sales, plus a niche market as the only solar solution consultant in the area.

2. Aquaculture Micro-Farming for Shrimp or Fresh Fish

• Overview: The growing aquaculture industry in Berbice, especially in brackish-water shrimp farming, is an ideal sector for smaller-scale investors who want to start micro-farms. Using small backyard ponds or tanks, one could grow shrimp or fish and sell them locally or to established aquaculture businesses looking to source extra supply.

• How It Works: Start with a small setup (like tanks or ponds) for shrimp or fresh fish that can be expanded gradually. Marketing can be as simple as reaching out to local seafood vendors, restaurants, or even selling directly to the community at markets.

• Why It’s High-Value: The demand for seafood is rising, especially with the expansion of Guyana’s export market. It’s a sustainable, high-margin side hustle that benefits from government support in aquaculture, providing opportunities for ongoing growth as demand increases.

3. Mobile Healthcare Screening Specialist

• Overview: With the Guyanese government’s push for healthcare decentralization and increased screenings in schools, there’s a need for mobile health screeners for vision, hearing, and dental checks, particularly in underserved areas. This can be a weekend or evening role that offers a quick, essential service to schools, community centers, or even workplaces.

• How It Works: Partner with local healthcare providers or use basic diagnostic tools to perform screenings and refer patients to local providers as needed. Consider a monthly subscription model with businesses or schools for routine checks.

• Why It’s High-Value: This role meets a rising need in healthcare services and taps into a market that is guaranteed to grow as the government prioritizes health access. It’s a low-cost setup with essential services that can easily attract ongoing clientele in communities across Guyana.

Each of these ideas leverages current trends in energy, aquaculture, and healthcare, allowing individuals to maximize their earning potential on a small scale while serving Guyana's evolving needs.