‘Massive Increase’ In Guyana’s Quarrying Sector

• There has been major improvement across all commodities in Guyana’s mining sector. During 2024, mining activities in total were the second-highest contributor to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• With developmental projects across the country in various sectors, the demand for building materials such as stone, sand and loom increased significantly in 2024.
• The Minister noted there has been significant investment in the quarrying sector, especially in the production of stone aggregates. In 2023, the production was at 1,851,152 tonnes, and in 2024, at 3,338,760 metric tonnes. This represents an approximate 180% increase from 2023 to 2024.
• A massive increase was also seen in the production of sand and loom. Loom production in 2023 was at 949,000 tonnes and increased to over 1.7 million tonnes in 2024. Similarly, for 2023, production of sand was at 8 million tonnes, while in 2024, it increased to 11.7 million tonnes.
• Minister Bharrat said this was a result of the confidence from investors. He further noted that when the current administration took over, there were seven operational quarries. Currently, there are seventeen operational quarries.
• A few of these existing quarries are expanding their operation and investment, therefore also expanding their production. He also noted that another five new quarries may become operational in 2025, which would increase production to more than four million tonnes.
• Minister Bharrat emphasized that the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) will continue collaborating with stakeholders to meet local demand.

 (Source: Newsroom Guyana)