Monetary operations, alongside fiscal and supply-side measures, have helped contain liquidity and exchange rate pressures in Guyana and cushion the effects of higher prices, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reported, while warning that inflation is expected to increase in 2026.
In its October 8, 2026, report following the conclusion of its Article IV Consultation with Guyana, the Fund said economic fundamentals remained strong, with available indicators showing no clear signs of overheating or competitiveness pressures.
However, it cautioned that strong wage growth and movements in the real exchange rate based on wages warranted continued monitoring as economic activity remained robust.
Average consumer price inflation stood at 3.3 per cent in 2025, up from 2.9 per cent in 2024. The IMF projects average inflation of 4.1 per cent in 2026, reflecting higher global energy and food prices.
The Fund recommended that monetary policy remain consistent with Guyana’s stabilised exchange rate arrangement and the objective of maintaining price stability.
It said liquidity management should continue through foreign exchange operations, where necessary, alongside increased use of Treasury bills and reserve requirements. These measures would help keep broad money growth broadly aligned with nominal non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
The IMF said additional monetary tightening would be warranted if pressures arising from domestic demand, credit growth or the exchange rate intensified.
Over the longer term, it recommended strengthening the monetary policy framework by activating the interest rate channel, deepening financial markets, improving macroprudential tools and gradually reducing broad measures used to mitigate price increases.
The Fund also assessed Guyana’s current exchange rate regime as appropriate, while noting that greater flexibility could be considered over the medium term to facilitate economic adjustment and strengthen resilience to external shocks.
The recommendations come as Guyana’s economy is projected to grow by 22.3 per cent in 2026, supported by expanding oil production and continued growth in non-oil sectors.
The IMF reported that real GDP grew by 19.3 per cent in 2025, following average growth of nearly 40 per cent in 2023 and 2024. Oil GDP expanded by 21.1 per cent last year, while non-oil GDP grew by 14 per cent, driven by activity in construction, agriculture, mining and manufacturing.
For 2026, oil GDP is projected to grow by 26.1 per cent, while non-oil GDP is expected to expand by 10.2 per cent.
Although the Fund described the economic outlook as favourable, it identified possible overheating pressures, fluctuations in international oil prices and climate-related shocks among the risks facing the country.
The IMF’s assessment also highlighted the importance of coordinating monetary and fiscal policies as public investment and economic activity continue to expand.
It said Guyana’s rising oil revenues had strengthened its fiscal and external positions, while supporting investment in infrastructure and human capital. The overall fiscal deficit narrowed to 5.5 per cent of GDP in 2025, from 7.3 per cent in 2024.
However, the deficit is projected to widen to 6.4 per cent of GDP in 2026, partly reflecting transfers and electricity subsidies.
The Fund recommended that the Government strengthen its fiscal framework and consider saving a larger share of additional oil revenues if international prices remained persistently high, taking into account the economy’s capacity to absorb increased spending.
It also called for improved expenditure oversight, more effective targeting of subsidies and continued prioritisation of investments that enhance productivity and support vulnerable groups.
The IMF said Guyana’s banking system remained well capitalised and liquid, with improving asset quality, but urged continued monitoring of financial stability risks, particularly concentration risks and rapid growth in the housing market.
It recommended developing a real estate price index and strengthening cybersecurity standards as financial services become increasingly digital.
The report further emphasised the need to improve public-sector accountability, including the timely publication of accounts by public enterprises and Government agencies, the resolution of outstanding cost-oil audits and stronger audit capacity in the oil and gas sector.
The Fund also identified economic diversification, human capital development, employment creation, food security and climate resilience as priorities for sustaining growth beyond the oil sector.
It said continued improvements in official statistics, including national accounts, price data and labour force surveys, would be important for effective policymaking.
The IMF’s recommendations form part of its broader assessment of the policies needed to maintain macroeconomic and financial stability while ensuring that Guyana’s expanding oil wealth supports sustainable, long-term development.

Source: Guyana Times

The five-member Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy on Friday visited two dry docks along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) as part of its ongoing efforts to gather information ahead of the formal hearings.
The two facilities were used in the maintenance and repair of the MV Barima at various times before the July 18, 2026 tragedy. The visits allowed commissioners to familiarise themselves with the sites as they prepare for the commencement of formal hearings on October 14.

Friday’s inspections followed visits on Thursday to the Transport and Harbours Department’s (T&HD) Goods Wharf in Kingston, Georgetown, as well as the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) and the T&HD.
The site visits are part of the Commission’s preliminary fact-finding process, aimed at giving members a better understanding of the facilities, operations and circumstances relevant to the investigation into the MV Barima tragedy.
The passenger and cargo ferry had departed the Kingston Goods Wharf in Georgetown at about 15:15h on its scheduled journey to Port Kaituma in the North West District.
However, at about 23:01h, the vessel transmitted a distress signal after encountering difficulties off the Essequibo Coast near the mouth of the Pomeroon River.
A total of 179 persons, including 18 crew members, were onboard. The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 persons survived, and approximately 30 remain unaccounted for.
Three T&HD employees have since been charged with murder over the tragedy. The accused were all members of the MV Barima’s crew on July 18, the day of the fatal incident. They are Captain Kevin Price, called “KP”, 40, of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, 42, of Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD); and goods superintendent Delon Granderson, 33, of Fellowship, West Coast Demerara (WCB).
The CoI into the MV Barima tragedy, chaired by Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith, conducted a site visit on Thursday at the T&HD wharf in Kingston, Georgetown.
All the other members of the Commission, including Captain Hamada Fouda, Nyree Dawn Alfonso, Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hayden Pritchard, and Dr Andrzej Jasionowski, were also at the site visit.
Speaking at the wharf following the visit, Secretary to the Commission and Attorney-at-Law Javid Shadick said the Commissioners visited the T&HD wharf in Kingston, Georgetown, where they inspected the bond area, passenger facilities, and the MV Militia, which was docked at the port.
The Commissioners also visited the T&HD’s building in Kingston.
Meanwhile, in explaining the importance of the investigation, Shadick noted that the Commissioners each specialise in different areas.
The CoI into the MV Barima tragedy commenced its work on Wednesday, with the Commissioners meeting with witnesses.
During that meeting, families were informed that the contract to salvage the sunken vessel had been awarded to Guyanese-owned company BK International for $1.3 billion.
The relatives were also told that the process of raising the MV Barima could begin before the end of October, nearly three months after the vessel capsized, killing 73 persons, with another 30 remaining unaccounted for.
In addition, the Commissioners assured the families that the inquiry would be conducted over a six-month period without interference.
They also disclosed that, since their appointment, they had collected documents and statements that must be verified before they could be admitted as evidence.

Source: Guyana Times

A Linden schoolteacher was killed on Friday after she was reportedly struck by a car that lost control after it was hit from behind by a speeding motor lorry along Empire Drive in Amelia’s Ward Public Road, Region 10.

The deceased is Leslyn Major, a former teacher at Christianburg Primary School and a resident of Amelia’s Ward, Linden.
Based on reports received, the now deceased teacher was standing along the roadway when the speeding lorry allegedly slammed into the back of a motor car driven by a female, which in turn collided with Major.
Due to the impact, Major sustained injuries to her head and other parts of her body.
Major, along with the driver of the motor car, who also sustained injuries, was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex, but Major succumbed to her injuries while being prepared for transport to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
The driver of the motor car was treated and admitted for observation at the Linden medical facility.
Meanwhile, after the collision, the driver of the motor lorry reportedly fled the scene. He is being pursued by the police.

Source: Guyana Times

Three-year-old Keron Atkinson of Agatash Village, Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven), is feared dead after reportedly getting into difficulty while swimming in a river with his seven-year-old cousin on Friday.

According to reports, the child left home with his cousin without the knowledge of his guardian, and the two subsequently ventured into the river. However, Atkinson reportedly ended up in a deeper section of the waterway.
His cousin allegedly attempted to pull him to safety but was unable to maintain his grip. The seven-year-old then reportedly ran to alert relatives, who rushed to the area and began searching for the missing child.
Guyana Times understands that Atkinson’s mother is currently working as a cook in the interior and had left him in the care of a relative. Up to press time, the three-year-old remained missing.

Source: Guyana Times

As the Guyana Government continues to build out dedicated heavy-duty truck parking facilities across the coastal regions, a management committee will be established to oversee the operations of these amenities.
This is according to Housing Minister Collin Croal on Friday. He also indicated that the proposed fee structure and operational arrangements will be announced in the coming days.

According to Croal, the management structure will ensure the facilities are properly maintained, secured and efficiently operated, while providing a designated space for truck operators and other commercial vehicle owners to park, service and undertake routine maintenance of their vehicles.
He noted that the operational framework will include security arrangements, maintenance provisions and a fee structure to support the long-term sustainability of the facilities. The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities for persons involved in their daily management and upkeep.
These facilities are intended to provide a designated space for truck parking thus improving traffic management and reducing congestion in residential communities.
Croal made these announcements during a visit to the 24-acre truck parking facility under development at Hermitage, Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), where he inspected ongoing works and engaged contractors.
This is one of two facilities being constructed across Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) – the other being at Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
Providing an update on the Hermitage facility, the Housing Minister disclosed that six contractors are currently executing works on six lots, with overall progress approximately 75 per cent complete.
Works have advanced to the placement of crusher run, while lighting installations are also planned to facilitate operations beyond regular working hours. In fact, four of the six lots are expected to be completed within the next month, while the remaining two are scheduled for completion before the end of the year.
“Before this period of 2026 is finished, this truck parking facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara – Hermitage to be exact, will be operational,” Croal assured.

Truck Parking & Auto Zone

Already, a $500 million Truck Parking and Auto Zone, spanning approximately 14.1 acres, was developed at Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and will be the first to come on stream once the operational arrangements are finalised. This facility will accommodate at least 300 trucks. It will also address concerns raised by residents about automotive activities, including vehicle repairs and spray painting.
There is also a second truck parking lot currently under construction at Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD) as well. That second facility in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) is being developed on approximately 30 acres of land and completion is slated for November 2026. Another facility is being developed at Palmyra, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
Moreover, planned future works will see at least one other truck parking and automotive service zone on the Corentyne in the vicinity of the Number 75-76 Villages, as well as another in Region Four along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
Croal explained that the development aims to establish designated truck parking and automotive service areas across the country, providing organised spaces for commercial activities while addressing concerns associated with truck parking and vehicle servicing in residential communities.
He reiterated that these developments are intended to create a safer, more organised environment for commercial vehicle operators, while supporting the continued growth of the transportation and logistics sectors.
This initiative is in keeping with a commitment by President Dr Irfaan Ali in response to numerous requests from persons operating within the commercial and industrial sectors for appropriate spaces to park, service and repair trucks and other vehicles.
These designated facilities will reduce roadside parking, especially by sand trucks and construction vehicles; improved traffic flow and reduced congestion on the roadways; protect public infrastructure, since heavy-duty vehicles have been damaging road shoulders and road edges; support Guyana’s expanding construction sector by creating an organised space for trucks and heavy equipment, and enhanced urban organisation and development planning through designated industrial parking zones.

Source: Guyana Times

Agriculture has long been central to the economics of Guyana, and its continued development will be important to Guyana’s efforts to strengthen food production, create economic opportunities, and diversify the economy. As the sector evolves, technology presents an opportunity not simply to address existing challenges, but to make farming more efficient, productive, and attractive for the future.
This was evident at the recently concluded Berbice Expo, where agricultural drones were among the technologies showcased to farmers and the wider public. The equipment demonstrates how innovation can increasingly become part of everyday agricultural operations, from spraying and fertiliser application to spreading seeds and monitoring crops.
The potential significance of such technology should not be viewed solely through the lens of farmers having difficulty finding workers. While labour availability is an important consideration for the sector, the greater opportunity lies in using technology to improve the way agricultural work is undertaken.
The 2023 Guyana Workforce Assessment, as summarised by the International Labour Organisation, projects that agriculture will require more than 12,000 additional workers by 2028. Meeting that demand will require investment in people, training and technology. These should not be regarded as competing priorities.
Indeed, technology can complement the agricultural workforce by allowing farmers to accomplish certain tasks more efficiently while enabling workers to focus on activities that require greater skill, judgement, and human oversight.
The agricultural drone displayed at the Berbice Expo provides a practical example. According to GuyDrones representative Joel Singh, the equipment can carry up to 50 kilogrammes when spreading and up to 40 litres when spraying. It is also equipped with obstacle-avoidance technology and can be adapted for different applications through changes to its tank.
Such equipment can potentially reduce the time and physical effort required to cover large areas of farmland. More importantly, however, it introduces farmers to precision agriculture, where technology can be used to apply inputs more systematically and monitor conditions in the field.
Singh noted that technology is available to monitor crops and identify particular vegetation in fields. This points to a broader transformation in agriculture, where data, sensors, imaging, and automated equipment can increasingly support farmers in making decisions.
For a country seeking to expand agricultural production, these developments deserve serious attention, as the objective should be to ensure that investments in equipment produce measurable benefits in productivity, efficiency, and farm management.
This will also require a workforce capable of operating and maintaining modern agricultural equipment. The requirement for operators to maintain visual contact with drones, along with the training associated with their use and the regulatory requirements of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, illustrates that technology does not eliminate the need for skilled people. Instead, it changes the nature of the skills required.
This is an important distinction as Guyana considers the future of agriculture.
The same theme of innovation was visible at the Berbice Expo outside agriculture. Prefabricated housing units showcased how technology and modern construction methods can provide alternative approaches to meeting housing demand. Such developments demonstrate that innovation is becoming increasingly relevant across sectors of the economy.
For agriculture, modern equipment can help farmers improve productivity, monitor crops more closely, manage inputs and potentially expand the scale of their operations. Over time, greater adoption of technology can also encourage a younger generation to view agriculture as a modern industry rather than one dependent primarily on traditional methods.
That shift in perception matters, as the discussion should now move to ask how technology can enable those workers to produce more, work more efficiently and participate in a more modern agricultural economy. The drones showcased in Berbice offer one glimpse of that future.
Embracing this technology will ensure that agriculture remains a modern industry capable of supporting the country’s development for decades to come.

Source: Guyana Times

…on seaworthiness
Your Eyewitness was pleased that the Barima CoI has started their work in a hands-on manner – after they’d been bush-wacked by Sanction Man when they opened their activity by trying to listen to the survivors and the relatives of the dead and missing. They’d ambled over to the Kingston Wharf from where the Barima had departed to inspect the facilities. Fortuitously, the Ma Lisha – which had replaced the Barima after its tragic end – was at dockside and could then be inspected to give the CoI an idea of the T&HD maintenance discipline – or lack thereof!!
The Ma Lisha’s just a tad over three years old, having been built in India and put into service in August 2023. The Barima – on the other hand – was over 80 years old! It was reported – and we have pictures which we know are worth a thousand words!! – that parts of the Ma Lisha deck are already rusting – with flakes coming off the hands of the CoI member who’d rubbed his hand over it!!
Now, these marine experts know that marine coatings deteriorate during service – but they know too that this is why regular inspections and timely coating repairs matter!! If these rusty parts – right there on deck in plain sight – weren’t taken care of, your Eyewitness shudders to think what might lurk below deck!! Or what the Barima’s condition was like!! Marine experts identify protective coatings as a principal means of preserving steel strength – and if the new Ma Lisha didn’t get it when plying salt water – imagine the Barima!
The location of the rust also matters!! The tank air vents that were rusted allow tanks to breathe, and their closing devices help prevent water entering through those openings!! Your Eyewitness confirmed that maintenance requirements specifically call for corrosion protection of air-pipe closing-device casings!! This ain’t an auspicious beginning of the CoI’s work!!
Your Eyewitness thinks that the reported deterioration warrants prompt independent inspection, since it raises questions about maintenance, the original coating application, and the suitability of the affected fittings!! The latest survey findings, maintenance records, tests of the affected vents and – where steel appears wasted – thickness measurements are vital. And by extension, demands for analogous records for the Barima be scrutinised with a fine-tooth comb!!
And here we’re only talking about the painting maintenance!! There’re the reports by passengers that the Barima was already taking in water before it keeled over and sank!! This suggests that the hull itself was compromised and leaking – due to lack of maintenance! We’ll be able to check this out when BK Intl raises the ship!!
In the meantime, let’s give the CoI time and space to do the job, shall we??

…visas
The European Union issues what they call a “Schengen Area visa” that includes all 29 countries within its ambit. Sounds efficient, doesn’t it?? Except that for us in Guyana, we can’t apply for this visa even though there’s now a French embassy here!! No, Siree Bob!! We’ve gotta treck over to Suriname or French Guiana and present our application in person – even though the info is sent electronically somewhere else, since you’ve gotta wait days for a response!!
At the tourism confab going on in Georgetown, never one to mince words, Pressie mentioned the EU run-around: “The European Union is still BACKWARD in this region. We have to travel to Trinidad and Suriname to get biometrics to do it.” The question, of course, is ‘What gives?’. And let’s face facts squarely – these restrictions aren’t because the EU thinks we may jump ship and remain there. Basically, it’s because they don’t want to see non-White people who have the wherewithal to visit and spend big time!!

…credentials
Well, it looks like the chances of our nominee for the UN Secretary General getting the nod have dimmed beyond the point of recovery. But we can hold our head up high that we didn’t sacrifice our principles to curry favour!!

Source: Guyana Times

Dataman, Stat, I’m Sam, and Mapa Do Brasil are among the confirmed entries for the Showdown of Champions race meeting at Port Mourant Turf Club on Sunday, October 18, with Master Z, Jagdeo and J’s Stables set to be represented.
Ten races are listed on the provisional programme, led by the $3 million Showdown of Champions Stakes. The 1750-metre event is open to horses aged three and older, with $1.5 million earmarked for the winner.

The Port Mourant Sprint Stakes is also expected to attract a competitive field, including Hot N Lucky, Barbara, Order & Progress and Grande Rainha. That 1200-metre contest carries a total purse of $1.6 million, with the winner set to collect $800,000.
Here Comes Heidi, Frontline Warrior, Oy Vey, Royale Rocks, Novo Sol and Daring Move are expected to contest the Doodnauth “Shook” Shivmangal Memorial Clash At D Big Yard Stakes. Running over 1550 metres, the race offers another $1.6 million purse and an $800,000 first prize.
The programme will also honour the late Carlton “Blackmouth” Pluck through a 1000-metre Juvenile Invitational for native and West Indian-bred two-year-olds. A total purse of $1 million is listed for that event, while the Imported Open Two-Year-Old Sophomore Sprint will offer $1.6 million over 1100 metres.
Supporting races include the Sonny Habibulla Memorial Cup, Kishawn Pereira Memorial Cup and events bearing the names of Big G Lumber Yard & Sawmill Enterprise, Armco Construction Company and Forrester’s Lumber & Building Complex.
General admission is $3000.

Source: Guyana Times