UK-Guyana Trade Reaches £2.2 Billion Amid Infrastructure Boost and Risk Appetite Increase

According to Kaieteur News, the trade volume between Guyana and the United Kingdom has climbed to approximately £2.2 billion, solidifying Guyana's status as Britain's foremost trading partner within the Commonwealth Caribbean. This figure includes a new 150,000-square-foot arrivals terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), representing an investment of approximately US$65.5 million. These figures were highlighted during a business reception hosted by the British High Commission in Georgetown, which took place in honor of His Majesty King Charles III's two-day State Visit to Guyana. The event gathered officials, representatives from leading Guyanese and British businesses, and private sector organizations to celebrate the expanding commercial relationship and to explore avenues for further investment and trade.

During the engagement, His Majesty was briefed on the development of a new arrivals terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), which represents an investment valued at approximately US$65.5 million. The British firm Mowlem is undertaking this project, with backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF). This new terminal is designed to handle 1,000 passengers per hour, with the potential to increase this to 1,500, thereby boosting the airport's yearly passenger capacity to as high as 2.5 million. The broader redevelopment plan also includes the separation of arrivals and departures, the introduction of enhanced baggage-handling and passenger-processing systems, and the addition of more retail and lounge areas.

At the reception, Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister within the Office of the President responsible for Finance, pointed out two major advancements anticipated to improve Guyana's access to international funding. These include an increase in UKEF's country risk appetite for Guyana from £3 billion to £3.5 billion, alongside the recent reclassification of Guyana by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) from Category 5 to Category 4. The United Kingdom supported this reclassification, which is expected to enhance Guyana's appeal as an investment destination and improve its access to international financing. These developments emphasize the growing economic partnership, where British expertise, financing, and commercial capabilities are being applied to Guyana's infrastructure and development goals, simultaneously creating opportunities for businesses in both nations.

Amy Barklam, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Latin America and the Caribbean, stated that the partnership is becoming increasingly characterized by the execution of projects and shared objectives. Barklam noted that British innovation and expertise are assisting Guyana with its priorities, while Guyana's significant growth is generating new prospects for UK businesses. Barklam further mentioned that these partnerships are aiding in the creation of shared prosperity and establishing a foundation for greater economic cooperation.

Tim Reid, Chief Executive Officer of UK Export Finance, expressed pride in deepening the relationship with Guyana. He explained that the increase in the country risk appetite to £3.5 billion reflects Britain's dedication to supporting substantial infrastructure projects, such as the new CJIA terminal, while also fostering job creation and economic growth within the United Kingdom. Phil Atkinson, Director of Mowlem, announced that the major construction phase for the Terminal 2 project at CJIA is anticipated to begin soon. He characterized the project as a potential driver for the long-term economic growth and the advancement of Guyana's aviation sector, adding that the company is fully committed to delivering this world-class infrastructure safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards, while thanking the Governments of Guyana and the United Kingdom for their support and partnership.

Kaieteur News confirmed that Guyana remains the United Kingdom’s largest trading partner in the Commonwealth Caribbean, with bilateral trade reaching approximately £2.2 billion across the four quarters concluding in March 2026. This strengthening commercial bond has been complemented by closer connections between the people and businesses of both countries. In November 2022, Guyanese citizens were granted visa-free travel to the United Kingdom, and British Airways services between London and Georgetown commenced in March 2023. Furthermore, the British Chamber of Commerce Guyana (BritCham Guyana) was established in 2023 to serve as a dedicated platform for strengthening trade, investment, and commercial ties between the two nations. The United Kingdom has reiterated its commitment to expanding trade, investment, and partnerships with Guyana as both countries aim to capitalize on emerging economic opportunities.