Tourism operators urged to capitalize on available incentives for tourism sector

Convinced that at least 10% of the incentives available to the Tourism Industry are not being capitalized on, President Irfaan Ali said he plans to put together a team of young professionals to provide technical support to operators in the Tourism Industry.

As he delivered the keynote address at the Guyana Tourism Authority’s 2025 Awards and Gala, the President said while opportunities exist within the Tourism Industry, some local tourism operators lack the capacity to effectively tap into investment opportunities, and to secure the finances needed to bring their plans to fruition.

“I am here to tell you, this sector is not making use of 10% of the incentives that is available to the sector. There is absolutely not one outstanding investment application at the Guyana Office for Investment,” the President pointed out.

He said some investors have been asking for additional benefits, although they have not taken time to effectively utilize the incentives that already exist in the sector. 

The corps of young professionals would therefore aid in the compilation of business plans, investment proposals, and the formation of consortia. Importantly, they will help to guide businesses through the various stages of securing investment incentives and approvals.

Noting that there is no backdoor approach, the President said it is important for companies and businesses to meet the standard registration requirements, including the acquisition of Tax Identification Number certificate, and company incorporation among other requirements.

“Go to them with your ideas, let them help you write your business plan, prepare your proposal and take it to GoInvest,” the President urged operators.

He also challenged the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Go-Invest, the Ministry of Finance and the incoming team of professionals to form an inter-agency mechanism that will guide operators from concept to investment agreement.

“In the last two weeks alone, we received nine Expressions of Interest for investments in tourism. If all the operators in this room come together and raised US$10 million, we can take one of these projects to the next level. That is the role of THAG,” President Ali said.   

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues said since taking up the post in September, she has immersed herself in the industry.

She said the industry has been making notable progress, with 12 new tourism experiences launched recently, bringing the total for the year to 15.

Minister Rodrigues said new tourism products and experiences are being introduced at a time when the country is looking to increase its visitor arrival rate.

“Guyana recently recorded an 18% increase in visitor arrival for the first seven months of this year when compared to the same period last year. This performance shows progress that must inspire continued effort. That growth reflects the resilience of our sector and the world’s interest in our forest, rivers, culture, and people. We have set bold national goals to match that interst. By 2030, we intend to welcome 3 million transiting passengers through our ports of entry, and to attract at least one million visitors annually,” Minister Rodrigues said.

She said those “ambitious” targets, demand better infrastructure and connectivity and a product that offers visitors quality tourism products blended with Guyanese experiences.

“That work has already begun – the Linden-Mabura Hill road, upgrading of 45 bridges between Mabura Hill and Lethem, improving connectivity and opening up opportunities. The rehabilitation of village roads, the Georgetown renewal plan, the beautification projects and the construction of new ports,” Minister Rodrigues said.

Looking ahead, she said there will be an aggressive approach to tourism, explaining that focus will be placed on areas that have the greatest potential for expansion and long term impact.

Last night’s award was held to recognize the work of tourism operators, and the exemplary service they offer. Companies and businesses were recognized for their high standards of hospitality.