Guyana–Brazil trade surges to US$1 billion

Bilateral trade between Guyana and Brazil has risen sharply to US$1 billion, up from roughly US$58 million in 2020, opening new opportunities for investment, private sector expansion and regional integration.

Chief Investment Officer at the Guyana Office for Investment, Peter Ramsaroop, said the growth reflects strengthening ties between the two countries.

His comments follow remarks by Brazil’s Ambassador to Guyana, Maria Cristina de Castro Martins, who confirmed the expansion in bilateral trade during a local radio interview.

She said the increase is being driven by demand in key sectors, including energy, mining, infrastructure and construction.
According to the ambassador, Guyana’s exports to Brazil are dominated by crude oil, which accounts for about 98 per cent of shipments, while Brazil exports machinery and industrial equipment used in construction, mining, extractive industries and oil production.

Ramsaroop said the figures reflect a “significant expansion in engagement and cooperation” between the two countries, particularly in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, logistics and private sector activity.

He pointed to ongoing infrastructure developments aimed at positioning Guyana as a commercial link between the Caribbean and South America, including an upgraded road corridor to northern Brazil, expansion of port facilities such as the Tristar terminal, plans for a deep-water port in Berbice, expanded logistics infrastructure, and proposals to upgrade Lethem Airport into an international hub.

These investments, he said, are expected to generate new opportunities in trade, tourism, transport, manufacturing and industrial development.

Ramsaroop added that companies are increasingly showing interest in agriculture, agro-processing, logistics, construction, manufacturing, energy support services and infrastructure development, citing Guyana’s location as a key advantage.

He also noted that improved connectivity and expanded port capacity are expected to benefit businesses in Lethem and Region Nine through growth in logistics, hospitality, warehousing, retail and agro-processing.

The investment official said the expanding agriculture sector could also support joint ventures, including fertiliser production and industrial processing, as energy and logistics capacity grows.