Government advances market modernisation drive across Guyana
September 21 2026
The Government of Guyana is advancing a major programme to modernise market infrastructure across the country, with new facilities planned or under construction in several communities and billions of dollars being invested to expand vending opportunities and improve conditions for vendors and shoppers.
The programme includes new markets at Pouderoyen and Zeelugt in Region Three and the modernisation of the New Amsterdam Market in Region Six, with the projects collectively representing government investments of approximately $3.8 billion.
At Pouderoyen, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand recently turned the sod for a new two-storey market that will replace the existing facility. The project is valued at $1.519 billion and is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The existing Pouderoyen Market has 78 registered vendors, while the new facility is being designed to accommodate significantly more vendors, including persons currently selling along the roadway and new entrepreneurs seeking commercial space.
The Government said the project is intended to support the wider economic development of Pouderoyen and surrounding communities, with the market expected to attract shoppers from the East Bank Demerara and other areas because of its accessibility.
Construction of the Pouderoyen facility will be undertaken by Kalitech Inc., based on designs prepared by Skylines Architecture Inc. The contract was awarded through the public tender process in accordance with the Public Procurement Act.
In Region Six, work has also commenced on the modernisation of the New Amsterdam Market at an estimated government investment of $1.03 billion.
Approximately 323 vendors currently operate within and around the New Amsterdam market area. The new facility will feature more than 190 permanent stalls, along with a 6,230-square-foot open vending area capable of accommodating approximately 515 vendors.
The modernised market will include dedicated areas for dry goods, fresh produce and meats, as well as a food court, public seating, modern sanitary facilities, integrated waste management and a goods lift designed to reduce the physical burden on vendors moving heavy merchandise between floors.
Minister Manickchand said the Government was committed to ensuring vendors could continue earning during construction. The existing market will remain operational while the new facility is being built, with Regional Chairman Junior Basant indicating that the arrangement is intended to prevent a loss of trading days and income.
The New Amsterdam project was awarded through competitive public tender via the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). Construction will be divided into four lots, with Singh & Son Construction, Emerald’s General Contracting & Distributors, A.A Construction and Engineered Construction Company undertaking the works. Origin Investments Inc. is serving as consultant.
Meanwhile, the Government has commenced work on a **$1.3 billion modern market at Zeelugt, West Coast Demerara**, which is expected to be completed within 14 months and provide space for approximately 90 vendors.
The Zeelugt facility will cater to farmers, vendors and small businesses, with dedicated spaces for vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, clothing, crafts, jewellery, prepared foods, beauty and personal-care products and other goods and services.
Plans also include administrative offices, training facilities, parking for vendors and customers, a taxi bay, modern washrooms, security measures, an integrated waste-management system and a dedicated children’s play area.
The projects form part of a wider national market-upgrade programme. Manickchand has announced that sod-turning ceremonies are expected before the end of the year for additional markets at Tuschen, Port Mourant, La Penitence, Lusignan, Soesdyke, Skeldon, McKenzie and Plaisance.
The Government says the broader programme is aimed at creating safer and more organised spaces for vendors, improving public health standards and expanding opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
