Guyana’s agriculture sector aims to mobilise traditional production into a modern, diversified, and export-oriented engine of growth. Over the next five years, the sector can become the foundation of food security, rural prosperity, and regional trade. Building on existing strengths in rice and sugar, the strategy emphasizes diversification into high-demand crops such as corn and soy, cassava, coconut, and hot peppers. By aligning these value chains with processing, certification, and logistics, Guyana can capture greater value, create sustainable jobs, and establish itself as CARICOM’s leading supplier of safe, traceable, and high-quality food products.
The roadmap envisions modernised infrastructure, climate-smart technologies, and resilient irrigation systems that reduce vulnerability to floods and droughts. At the same time, smallholders will be empowered through access to finance, contract farming, and training, ensuring inclusivity in sectoral growth. The plan also places emphasis on certification, traceability, and market access, recognising that compliance with international standards is essential for export success. Over five years, Guyana can cut its food import bill, diversify its export base, and build long-term partnerships with global buyers.
By Year 5, measurable targets include 150 000 acres under improved irrigation, 500 certified farms, multiple processing facilities for value-added products, and a cold-chain system that reduces post-harvest losses by at least 30%. With an estimated US$200–300 million in blended public-private investment, the plan balances growth with resilience, ensuring the sector not only expands but also thrives in the face of climate risks.
