Guyana has seen growing interest from foreign investors in recent years, especially since the discovery of major offshore oil deposits. The country’s economy is transitioning, with increasing investment in infrastructure, energy, agriculture and other sectors. A number of prominent investment companies have established operations in Guyana to capitalize on these opportunities. This article provides an overview of the major investment companies currently active in Guyana.
Omai Gold Mines Ltd – Leading Gold Mining Investment
Omai Gold Mines Ltd is one of the largest foreign investment companies currently operating in Guyana. It owns the past producing Omai gold mine, which is located in Guyana’s Essequibo region. Omai produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold during its prior operation by Cambior Inc from 1993 to 2005. Omai Gold commenced mining activities at the site in 2016 and has made significant investments to restart commercial production. The company is currently focused on expanding existing deposits and new exploration to extend the mine life. Omai represents a major investment in Guyana’s gold mining sector.
ExxonMobil – Developing Guyana’s Oil Resources
ExxonMobil, the U.S. oil giant, is leading one of the largest foreign investments in Guyana following its discovery of over 11 billion barrels of oil offshore in the Stabroek block. ExxonMobil owns a 45% stake in the block and has made huge investments in exploration and production facilities. Its partners include Hess Corp and CNOOC. Exxon began producing oil in late 2019 and achieved its one millionth barrel in 2020. Its investments are transforming Guyana’s economy and represent a multi-billion dollar commitment to developing Guyana’s oil resources.
NAREI Makes Substantial Investments in Agriculture
The Guyana National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) has been making significant investments aimed at modernizing and transforming the country’s agriculture sector. NAREI was established in 2012 through the merger of the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA). It has invested in new facilities, equipment, training programs, and research to improve crop yields, livestock farming and food security. NAREI represents a key investment in enhancing the productivity and profitability of Guyana’s agriculture industry.
Hotel and Hospitality Investments Expand Tourism Infrastructure
A number of international hotel chains and hospitality companies have made major investments in Guyana over the last decade, significantly expanding tourism infrastructure across the country. Investments include the Marriott, Pegasus Suites, Grand Coastal Inn, Radisson Blu, and Splashmins hotels in Georgetown. Chains like Ramada and Courtyard by Marriott have also announced new properties under development. These branded hotel investments indicate growing confidence in Guyana’s tourism potential.
Guyana’s business climate has been attracting growing foreign investment interest across sectors like mining, oil, agriculture and hospitality. Major companies are making substantial capital commitments to expand business opportunities and infrastructure in the country.