Guyana pushes for global food market integration with $200m hydroponics investment

  By Faridat Salifu

Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali says the country is intensifying efforts to become a global leader in sustainable food production, building on its status as the world’s only food self-sufficient nation. He made the statement during a tour of a newly constructed hydroponics farm in Region Two, as part of government efforts to modernise agriculture and expand Guyana’s footprint in international food markets.

Speaking at the site, President Ali credited Guyana’s food security achievements to deliberate policies, targeted investments, and farmer dedication. “Guyana is the only food self-sufficient country in the world. That came from policy, investment, programmes, and the hard work of our farmers. But we’re taking it to the next level,” he said.

The President outlined plans to integrate Guyana’s agriculture sector into regional and international supply chains. He said government is investing in infrastructure to support large-scale, resilient food production aimed at export. “Now we’re investing in facilities for sustainable and resilient food production… building the regional food hub, and creating a business ecosystem to support food production for Guyana, the region, and the world,” he said.

The newly commissioned hydroponics facility in Region Two is part of this drive. It is designed to produce high-value crops like lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes and celery in a fully automated environment. The $200 million investment includes temperature control systems, extractor fans, and automated irrigation and agrochemical delivery technologies.

The facility is expected to generate over 40,000 pounds of lettuce annually and provide employment for more than 200 residents. Similar hydroponics systems have already been replicated in Regions Five, Ten, and other areas.

President Ali said the project also aims to reduce Guyana’s food import bill and strengthen food sovereignty. “These facilities will target high-value crops to reduce our import bill and ensure that we have sustainable and resilient agriculture,” he said.

The president also highlighted the role of youth in driving agricultural transformation. “How do we make this an enterprise young people feel excited about? This is what these magnificent facilities are a model for youth engagement in agriculture,” he added.

Guyana’s aggressive push for agricultural innovation is part of a broader strategy to lead the Caribbean and contribute to global food system reform.

The government says such projects will position the country as a reliable producer and exporter of safe, sustainable food in the years ahead.