The Guyana government will roll out a new round of financial and tax relief measures, including a GUY$150,000 (US$600) cash grant for every registered fisherfolk, as part of efforts to boost the fisheries sector and support livelihoods in coastal and riverine communities.
President Irfaan Ali made the announcement this week, noting that the initiative is both a subsidy and an incentive for those working in the fishing industry. “We’re going to give GUY$150,000 to every fisherfolk out there to help them as an incentive and subsidy from the government,” Ali said.
He added that the administration will also remove taxes on key materials used in fishing — including fuel and seines — to reduce operational costs and increase profitability. “Before the end of the year, I will announce a series of measures not only looking at cash grants, but looking at the total empowerment of every Guyanese — whether you are someone living with a disability, the elderly, children, women, small businesses, or farmers,” Ali said.
The move builds on previous government support to the sector. In 2022, more than GUY$1.1 billion in grants was distributed to over 7,500 fisherfolk nationwide. The administration has also invested in modernizing landing and processing facilities, offering technical training, and promoting sustainable and climate-resilient fishing practices.
To ensure smooth and transparent distribution of the new cash grants, President Ali urged citizens to open bank accounts. The programme follows several recent social interventions, including last year’s GUY$100,000 cash grant for every adult, the GUY$50,000 “Because We Care” student grant, and the GUY$100,000 Newborn Grant.
Ali said the upcoming package of support measures will target a wide range of vulnerable and working-class groups as part of his government’s “One Guyana” vision for inclusive development.
