The Government of Guyana has made significant investments to grow the the budding spice sector, all with the aim of positioning the country as a leader in agriculture within the Caribbean.
Complementing these efforts are its considerable investments in hydroponics. The Ministry of Agriculture highlighted in a statement this week that Guyana is leading the region in agricultural innovation. He said the country has launched the region’s largest hydroponic farm, a collaborative effort between the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and private company Victoria Greens.
This state-of-the-art facility boasts a nursery capable of accommodating approximately 100,000 seedlings, including varieties of lettuce, pak choi, and over 15 high-value herbs such as basil and thyme. Notably, this
initiative not only enhances food security by reducing reliance on imports but also promotes sustainable agriculture through efficient land use and pesticide-free cultivation.
Further, the ministry said Guyana is setting a benchmark in modern farming practices by integrating advanced hydroponic technologies and engaging local talents from the Agriculture Innovative and Entrepreneurship Programme (AlEP). This it said positions the country as a key player in meeting the Caribbean’s agricultural needs.
In relation to Guyana’s spice industry, this has been experiencing significant growth, driven by targeted government investments and strategic initiatives. Since 2020, over $50 million has been allocated to procure high-quality planting materials for key spices such as ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, and black pepper. As a result more than 2,000 farmers across the country have benefited and now make up the growing subsector.
