Dear Editor,
THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) appreciates public interest in the revitalisation of the sugar industry and welcomes constructive discussions that contribute to its progress. However, we wish to clarify the concerns raised by Mrs. Emily Lorrimer in a letter published in the February 22, 2025, edition of Stabroek News, titled “Rumours of this impending deal at GuySuCo should have caught the Vice President’s attention by now.”

While we value open dialogue, it is important that discussions are based on accurate information. Unfortunately, several claims made in the letter are misleading and do not reflect the transparent and strategic approach GuySuCo adheres to in its operations.
The corporation remains committed to integrity, accountability, and efficiency in all aspects of its management, including procurement and strictly follows the guidelines of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).
The recent decision to procure two John Deere CH 570 harvesters, which Mrs Lorrimer references in her letter, was based purely on practical, financial, and operational considerations. It is concerning that she did not investigate the facts before making unfounded allegations, suggesting that her intent is

not constructive but destructive to the sugar industry.
Here are some facts that the writer did not take time to consult:
1. GuySuCo already operates CH 570 harvesters at Blairmont and Albion Estates, and our operators and technicians are fully trained in their use and maintenance of this type of equipment.
2. Acquiring additional CH 570 harvesters ensures efficiency, compatibility with existing spare parts and streamlined maintenance.
3. One of the identified CH 570 harvesters costs approximately 70 percent less than a new unit. The cost savings are substantial, allowing GuySuCo to optimise resources without compromising functionality. Additionally, these harvesters are readily available while a new unit would take seven to 10 months to procure.

In addition, the corporation exercised due diligence by dispatching one of its senior agricultural engineers to inspect the prospective purchase. The inspection report confirmed that the machines were in good working order for their intended purpose.
GuySuCo stands firmly behind both the procurement process undertaken and the investment decision, as this acquisition will contribute to improved operational efficiencies, including:
· Continuous cane supply to the factories.

· Optimising factory productivity and shortened grinding weeks
· Higher sugar-recovery rates due to continuous grinding, improving Tonnes Cane to Tonnes Sugar (TC/TS) efficiency
· Reduce operational costs and reliance on fuel and firewood

· Improve employee morale on the estate by achieving more weekly production incentives GuySuCo will not be distracted by wild speculations and unfounded accusations made.
The “friends-and-family” narrative pushed by Mrs Lorrimer is nothing but fiction, designed to mislead the public. The corporation’s procurement processes are rigorous, impartial, and guided by industry best practices.
Our priority remains the successful execution of the first crop of 2025, with a clear focus on ensuring continuous factory operations for optimal output, maintaining a steady and reliable supply of sugarcane and delivering on the production targets outlined by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.

This ongoing misinformation campaign will not deter GuySuCo from its mission to restore profitability and efficiency. The Corporation remains committed to the industry, its workers, and the economic wellbeing of Guyana.
We welcome fact-based discussions and constructive engagement regarding the future of the sugar industry. However, we will not be swayed by sensationalism or politically motivated attacks.
Sincerely,
Management of Guyana Sugar Corporation