Guyana has begun works on the first phase of an international port at Parika in Region Three, with activity set to intensify as the project advances. Works on the first phase have started after site preparations and inspections by the Ministry of Public Works.
The initial programme is valued at G$4.5 billion (roughly CAD$30 million), aimed at modernising export logistics and enabling cruise and cargo calls. The facility targets direct Caribbean trade and higher value tourism, starting with core marine and landside upgrades.
Procurement and Delivery Mechanics
The client is the Ministry of Public Works, with delivery led by local civil contractors. According to the project brief, works will be executed by Gaico Construction, Toolsie Persaud Limited and A&S General Contractors, reflecting a domestic supply chain for early packages.
The first phase covers foundations, superstructure, river defence and land reclamation on both sides of the existing stelling, a scope that allows operations to continue while construction proceeds. To protect existing services to riverine communities, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill stressed continuity, stating, “The steamers will continue to go every single day,” Minister Bishop Juan Edghill. Staging will be critical, since Parika is a busy multimodal node that handles ferries, speedboats and roll on, roll off movements.
Trade and Tourism Objectives
Design features include cold storage, packing and agro processing to extend shelf life and lift export quality, alongside customs, immigration, police, fire and coast guard functions for a port of entry. The facility is expected to receive cargo vessels serving regional markets and, over time, cruise and luxury yacht calls that connect visitors to the Essequibo tourism circuit. Phase two planning points to a marina and waterfront amenities to stimulate private investment and services.
The ministry links the port to broader production goals in agriculture and value added, which depend on timely, temperature controlled logistics. Signalling the intended transformation, “This whole area will come alive,” Minister Juan Edghill said.
Government statements indicate public funding for phase one, with contracting routed through the ministry and national firms, rather than a long term concession at this stage. Earlier this year, officials referenced a US$20 million package for the initial scope, aligned to about G$4 billion to G$4.5 billion, with reports that a US$20 million contract was awarded for phase one.