The Government of Guyana has received numerous complaints from the local construction industry about the acute shortage of building materials on the local market, and the steep increase in prices that consumers are being forced to pay for whatever limited supply is available.
The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) has also verified that supplies have been tight. The Government of Guyana recognizes that it has an obligation to ensure that the domestic needs of local consumers are first satisfied, before allowing the exportation of logs and lumber.

In view of this, the Minister of Agriculture with responsibility for Forestry,  Robert. Persaud, has directed the GFC to explore possible arrangements to satisfy demands caused by the construction boom, particularly in the housing sector.

The stakeholders have been advised of this development and are being encouraged to take steps to increase supply on the local market.  Contrary to any suggestion, there is no ban on the export of logs/lumber.

Meanwhile, Minister Persaud will be meeting on Monday at 10:00 hrs with members of the Forest Products Association (FPA) and the Guyana Manufacturers Association (GMA), to further discuss this issue.