Agriculture sector records double-digit growth

Agriculture grew by about 11.3 per cent in 2025, recording strong output and historic production levels despite climate shocks and rising costs, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said.

Speaking on the sector’s performance and outlook, Mustapha said agriculture remains central to the government’s long-term development strategy, anchoring an integrated and diversified economy.

“The President spoke of an integrated economy, where our traditional strength in agriculture becomes the foundation for a modern day Guyana… We are turning the President’s high-level policies into development initiatives like modern agro-processing facilities,” he said.

Government investment in the sector exceeded 104.6 billion Guyana dollars in 2025, with agriculture projected to contribute at least 20 per cent of non-oil gross domestic product.

Production gains were recorded across several subsectors. Rice output reached a historic 10,299 metric tonnes, with yields rising to 6.6 tonnes per hectare, while significant expansion was also reported in coconuts, corn, soya beans, fruits, vegetables, livestock and aquaculture.

“Overall, agricultural production is expected to grow by at least nine percent by the end of 2025, with notable increases in rice, coconuts, soybeans, fruits and vegetables.”

Mustapha said climate-related challenges, particularly flooding, continued to affect farmers during the year. In response, the government introduced what it described as historic support measures for the rice sector.

“Our rice farmers have long borne the brunt of harsh weather conditions, whether drought or flooding… We made history by introducing free crop insurance to ensure full coverage for losses caused by floods or drought.”

The ministry also expanded climate-smart agriculture initiatives, increased the participation of youth and women, and strengthened food security through regional market integration and infrastructure development.

“We are working to ensure that this sector provides opportunities for every Guyanese… Guyana is working tirelessly to claim its leading role in hemispheric food production.”

Looking ahead, Mustapha said policy priorities will focus on technology adoption, large-scale production hubs and private sector partnerships to bolster resilience, profitability and regional competitiveness.