In a significant development for regional food security and economic integration, two major sugar refineries currently under construction in Guyana and Belize are positioned to fully satisfy the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) refined sugar requirements. This strategic initiative, led by U.S.-based SUCRO in partnership with local private sector entities, represents a transformative shift in the Caribbean’s agricultural landscape.
According to official statements released Tuesday, these facilities will collectively address CARICOM’s annual demand of 200,000 tonnes of refined cane sugar, valued at approximately US$180 million. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh confirmed the projects’ capacity to achieve regional self-sufficiency in refined sugar production upon completion.
The Guyana operation, Demerara Sugar Refinery Inc., emerges as a joint venture between SUCRO and local investors, with construction scheduled to commence next year at Wales, West Bank Demerara. This development follows a similar September agreement between SUCRO and Belize’s Santander Sugar Limited, establishing Caribbean Sugar Refinery Limited (CSR).
Komal Singh, Director of Demerara Sugar Refinery, emphasized the project’s potential to revitalize Guyana’s struggling sugar industry. “We’re collaborating closely with GUYSUCO to enhance their productivity while adding value to surplus sugar that enjoys substantial global market demand,” Singh stated. GUYSUCO CEO Paul Cheong endorsed the partnership as beneficial for the industry’s recovery, noting that 40% of state-owned operations have already been mechanized.
SUCRO Vice President Oliver Hire outlined the operational strategy, explaining that raw sugar will be transported to refineries before distribution across CARICOM nations through a Trinidad-based hub. “We’re leveraging Guyana’s geographical advantage to ensure comprehensive regional coverage,” Hire remarked.
The initiative promises substantial economic and environmental benefits. The Guyana refinery will utilize rice husk for electricity generation, significantly reducing dust pollution while creating sustainable energy solutions. Hire further highlighted that the operation will support GUYSUCO’s 8,000 workers and generate profits that directly incentivize production, reducing dependence on volatile global brown sugar markets.