Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali has projected substantial savings in agricultural imports by the end of 2027, driven primarily by increased production of corn, soya, and shrimp.
Ali outlined ambitious targets during his speech at the Guyana Marketing Corporation’s annual Awards and Dinner ceremony.
He emphasized that investments in the agriculture sector are pivotal to enhancing local product quality and meeting domestic demand.
Ramping up production for self-sufficiency
The president highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in corn and soya by next year.
By 2027, he anticipates a significant market presence in these sectors regionally.
Expanding swamp shrimp output
Ali noted a remarkable surge in swamp shrimp production, reporting a 700 to 800 per cent increase over the past 18 months.
Despite this growth, exports predominantly cater to the diaspora markets.
Enhancing product value through processing
In tandem with production growth, Ali stressed the importance of enhancing product value through improved packaging and processing techniques.
He underscored the critical role of aquaculture in bolstering prawn production and related processing capabilities.
Supporting agro-processors
Ali urged agro-processors to capitalize on newly established facilities across Guyana, aimed at mitigating logistical challenges and facilitating product enhancement.
The president’s remarks underscore a strategic push towards agricultural self-sufficiency and export competitiveness, anchored by robust production and value-added processing strategies.
