—Minister says expanded production, agro-processing key to cutting imports

GUYANA is playing a critical role in advancing food security within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as demand for food and agro-processed products continues to grow, according to Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.
The minister made this disclosure on Friday at the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association’s (GMSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Mustapha noted that CARICOM has set a target to reduce its food import bill by more than 4.6 million tonnes by 2030. He added that, by increasing production and expanding processing capacity, Guyana is well positioned to supply this growing regional market.
Approximately US$2 billion of regional imports consists of processed and semi-processed food products that local manufacturers and agro-processors can produce to supply CARICOM markets.
According to the minister, products prioritised under the Ministerial Task Force for import reduction include meat and poultry, cereals such as corn and soya, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and niche products like honey and spices.
He said efforts are already underway to boost poultry production, particularly through engagement with young people.
“By the end of June, we will have nearly eight tonnes of ventilated poultry pens, consisting of around 40,000 birds each, operational,” Mustapha revealed.
The minister added that Guyana’s agricultural exports have shown steady growth, increasing from 432,544 metric tonnes in 2023 to approximately 517,727 metric tonnes in 2025.
“The next phase of the ‘25 by 2025 plus five’ initiative will further support food and nutrition security through increased production, enhanced technical co-operation, and improved trade mechanisms, including digital platforms such as the regional electronic agricultural marketing information system,” he said.
He emphasised that as Guyana expands into regional and international markets, maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and competitiveness will be essential.
“If we want to become an exporter and a country that serves our people, we have to be consistent,” he added.
Highlighting ongoing and planned projects, Mustapha pointed to efforts to develop an agri-tech and agro-industrial complex, which is expected to create new opportunities for value-added production and expanded markets. He also referenced recent partnerships for the establishment of a US$20 million sugar refinery aimed at diversifying the sugar industry and strengthening downstream production.
The minister underscored that Guyana’s vision is not only to achieve national food self-sufficiency, but also to contribute meaningfully to food security across the Caribbean and beyond.
He disclosed that, over the next five years, the agriculture sector is set to undergo significant modernisation, supported by investments in drainage and irrigation systems, farm-to-market roads, research and extension services, and infrastructure, alongside continued engagement with farmers.
On the digital front, Mustapha said transformation is already underway with platforms such as the Agriculture Information System, the Farmers Connect App, and the upcoming digital seafood market, which will connect fisherfolk directly with buyers.
“As we look ahead, inclusive development must remain a priority. Economic growth must benefit not only large enterprises, but also farmers, small and medium-sized businesses, and communities across the country,” he stated.