In a landmark revival of one of Guyana’s oldest and most culturally significant industries, the government has delivered on its promise to rejuvenate the sugar sector—particularly across Regions 3 to 6, spanning the East Coast and Central zones. Following years of decline, sugar production surged by 28% in 2023, reaching 60,204 tonnes, as reported by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) (source).
This growth is more than just an industrial achievement—it is a direct investment in communities, livelihoods, and national pride. Nearly 4,700 jobs have been restored in the sugar sector, reversing years of uncertainty that followed the closure of estates during the previous administration. Many of these jobs were created through the rehabilitation and partial reopening of key estates such as Rose Hall and Albion in Region 6, and Uitvlugt in Region 3. These efforts have provided renewed income and dignity to thousands of families (source).
The revival strategy goes beyond reactivating cane fields. The government invested in mechanical upgrades, drainage improvements, and agro-processing capacity, all of which are enabling GuySuCo to become more sustainable and resilient to climate challenges. Additionally, vocational training programs have been launched to equip new workers with modern agricultural skills, further strengthening the industry’s human capital.
The Government, emphasized the importance of sugar in Guyana’s socio-economic fabric, noting that the revival represents “not just an economic boost but a moral commitment to communities that built this country’s agricultural identity” (source).
In Berbice and Demerara, small businesses are again thriving in the shadows of active sugar estates, as demand for transportation, retail, and food services has returned. This multiplier effect underlines why the sugar sector is considered pivotal—not just for agriculture, but for balanced regional development.
With production trending upward and regional economies visibly recovering, the sugar revival is not merely a story of output—it’s a story of hope, of families regaining stability, and of communities rediscovering their purpose.
This is what real progress looks like.
