Guyana Mining Sector Overview

Guyana’s mining sector is a key component of its economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and export earnings. The Government of Guyana (GoG) has been supportive of mining activities, offering favorable policies and creating an enabling environment for both local and international investors.

The sector is primarily driven by gold and bauxite, including refractory-grade calcined bauxite, chemical-grade bauxite, tailings-grade bauxite, and metal-grade bauxite. Other important resources include diamonds, quarrying operations, and manganese, along with the production of sand and crushed stone, which are essential for supporting Guyana’s rapid infrastructural development.

The mining landscape is dominated by companies from Guyana, Canada, Australia, and China, largely through open-pit mining operations. Notably, Guyana is on the path to developing its first underground mining project, led by an international mining company.

Opportunities for U.S. Companies

As the GOG commences its upcoming mineral mapping exercise, additional opportunities may arise for U.S. companies to include:

• Training and Capacity Building - There is a need for modern and sustainable practices in the mining sector. U.S. companies that can engage small and medium scale operators to incorporate more efficient and sustainable technologies into their operations can offer training programs and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the skills of the small and medium sized miners as well as the local workforce, ensuring safer and more efficient mining operations.
• Mining Equipment and Technology - There is a proliferation of companies with heavy machinery and aftersales services in Guyana.  Technology/solutions which increases the yield and efficiency of the operations can find a ready market in Guyana.  Technology which can operate in dusty environment with murky waters that reduces or eliminate the use of mercury in mining has an advantageous opportunity in Guyana.
• Exploration and Development - With new mineral deposits likely to be identified, U.S. companies can partner with local firms or undertake independent exploration and development projects. Expertise in advanced exploration technologies and sustainable mining practices can be a key differentiator.
• Investment and Financing - U.S. investors and financial institutions can explore opportunities for providing financing and investment solutions tailored to the mining sector.  This includes venture capital, project financing, and insurance products.

For additional information on the sector, please contact Amanda Edmondson Commercial Specialist, Georgetown, Guyana at Amanda.Edmondson@trade.gov for more information.