$58.5M agro-processing facility commissioned in Canal Number One Polder

The Ministry of Agriculture on Saturday commissioned an agro-processing facility at Canal Number One Polder. The facility, constructed and outfitted at a cost of $58.5 million, features modern solar drying and agro-processing technology, with the capacity to process up to 500 kilograms of fruit per day.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha delivered remarks in which he underscored the Government’s continued commitment to transforming Guyana’s agro-processing sector.

Minister Mustapha noted that, for too long, Guyana has focused primarily on producing and exporting raw agricultural commodities—a situation he said has limited the earning potential of farmers. He explained that the seasonal nature of crops, combined with their perishability and fluctuating market demands, has often prevented farmers from maximizing returns on their hard work.

“Agro-processing is one of the areas we are transforming. For too long, we have been producing and exporting primary products. Today, in Canal Polder, we are harnessing that potential. Agro-processing in Guyana is not only about value-added production; it is about creating new opportunities and empowering people” he said.

The Minister added that “this facility at Canal #1 is equipped with modern solar drying and agro-processing technology, with the capacity to process up to 500 kilograms of fruit per day, enabling the drying of approximately 120,000–150,000 kilograms annually. It will convert perishable produce into shelf-stable, value-added products such as dried pineapple, citrus slices, pulps, juices, herbs, seasonings, and condiments. This will reduce post-harvest losses by as much as 35–40%, while opening new income streams for 70 to 90 small-scale farmers and processors, including women’s groups and youth-run agro-enterprises who will directly benefit.”

He noted that the Government is actively addressing longstanding challenges associated with Guyana’s reliance on primary production through strategic investments in value-added agriculture. He further highlighted that the $58.5 million facility was deliberately established in Canal Number One, a community recognised as one of the most productive agricultural areas in Region Three.

While emphasising that agriculture remains a primary source of income for many residents, Minister Mustapha said the investment is both timely and impactful, as it will bridge the longstanding gap in preservation and value addition.

“For too long, our farmers and consumers have been confined to the fresh produce market. With many crops being seasonal, there has always been a gap when it comes to preservation and value addition. This facility will help bridge that gap,” the Minister stated.

He further noted that since assuming office in 2020, the Government has significantly expanded agro-processing capacity across the country, with this latest addition bringing the total number of such facilities to approximately 15. This, he said, reflects the Government’s strong focus on advancing the agro-processing industry as a key pillar of agricultural development.

The Minister also pointed to complementary infrastructure investments currently underway in the region.

“Here in Region Three, farm-to-market roads are being constructed, and pump stations are being developed to improve drainage. In Canal Number One Polder, a new pump station with four pumps is already servicing the area. We are also conducting consultations with residents for the construction of high-level canals, similar to the Hope Canal on the East Coast of Demerara,” Minister Mustapha explained.

He added that Guyana currently imports approximately US$126,000 worth of dried fruits annually, and the Government aims to reduce the food import bill by expanding local production of high-quality import substitution products.