Cash grants will remain but focus is on sustainable prosperity, says Finance Minister 

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh said cash grants will continue to form part of the government’s social support system but are not intended to be the main tool for improving living standards, stressing that long-term development depends on empowerment, jobs and wealth creation.

Speaking in an interview on The Starting Point podcast, Singh said direct financial assistance is designed to complement a broader economic strategy rather than replace it, as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government focuses on sustainable prosperity instead of short-term relief.

He said the administration remains committed to providing targeted support where needed but within a comprehensive policy framework aimed at building capacity and resilience among citizens, a position he noted has been consistently articulated by the party’s leadership.

Singh acknowledged that cash grants have played an important role in providing immediate relief, particularly during periods of economic pressure, helping households meet urgent needs. He said such transfers will remain part of the government’s policy toolkit.

However, he emphasised that financial handouts are not intended to be the sole driver of social and economic progress, noting that the government’s objective is to equip Guyanese with the skills and opportunities required for meaningful employment and financial independence.

Beyond addressing daily expenses, Singh said the administration aims to create conditions that allow individuals and families to build long-term household wealth, ensuring that national economic growth translates into tangible benefits at the community and household levels.

In this context, he said cash grants are viewed as a supportive measure rather than a dominant policy instrument, complementing a wider range of initiatives designed to promote inclusive and sustainable development.

Since returning to office in 2020, the PPP/C government has introduced a series of relief measures to ease the cost of living and provide direct support to citizens and businesses, while maintaining a policy of no new taxes.

These measures have included a one-off $100,000 cash grant to adults, targeted assistance for pensioners and persons with disabilities, and support for farmers and small businesses.

The administration has also raised the income tax threshold, removed or reduced value-added tax on several basic food items, agricultural inputs and essential household goods, and lowered fuel taxes to curb everyday expenses. Additional initiatives include electricity and water relief, education grants for schoolchildren, and housing and land distribution programmes aimed at reducing long-term financial pressures on families.

Singh said the policies reflect a balanced approach, combining immediate assistance with efforts to lay the foundation for sustained economic growth and improved living standards.