MEMBERS of the Executive Management Committee and Council of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), led by newly elected President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, recently paid a courtesy call on Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture, at his Regent Street office.
The meeting provided an opportunity for dialogue on the role of the private sector in supporting Guyana’s growing agriculture industry and exploring avenues for stronger collaboration between the government and private enterprises.

STRENGTHENING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
During discussions, Minister Mustapha highlighted the government’s ongoing investments to modernise and expand the agriculture sector. He noted that strategic partnerships with private sector organisations, like the GCCI, remain vital in achieving the country’s development goals.
Minister Mustapha underscored that agriculture continues to play a critical role in Guyana’s economy, contributing 23.2 per cent to the country’s non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024.
“Our government continues to work closely with local private sector bodies to foster public-private partnerships that can drive sustainable growth and innovation in agriculture,” Minister Mustapha told the visiting delegation.

DIVERSIFYING BEYOND TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURE
In addition to investments in traditional agricultural sectors such as rice, sugar, and fisheries, Minister Mustapha informed the GCCI executives that there is increasing attention being placed on developing new industries within the sector.
These include investments in agro-processing, aquaculture, high-value crops, and climate-smart agriculture, all aimed at creating new opportunities for businesses and strengthening Guyana’s food security.
Mrs. Smith and her team expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts and reaffirmed the GCCI’s commitment to supporting the agriculture sector and fostering a closer working relationship with the Ministry.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about future collaborations that will drive innovation, investment, and inclusive growth within Guyana’s dynamic agriculture sector.