The government is inviting bids for the construction of a major regional food hub along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, a project estimated to cost $625.2 million. This initiative is part of Guyana’s strategic plan to cement its status as the leading food exporter in the region and to foster stronger agricultural ties with neighboring Brazil.
Phase One of this project began in 2023 with an investment of $187 million. Now, as Phase II commences, the government is calling on qualified contractors to participate in the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) process.
The construction of the food hub is a high-priority project for the Ministry of Agriculture, with a total allocation of US$14 million. The food terminal will serve as a central facility for the aggregation, distribution, and marketing of source-identified food products, predominantly sourced from the state of Roraima in Brazil. This facility is envisioned to enhance Guyana’s role as a regional trade, transportation, and logistics center, linking Roraima, South America, and the Caribbean.
The new terminal will be equipped to provide vital services such as cleaning, sorting, packaging, repackaging, labeling, and storing products in temperature-controlled units. These facilities are designed to ensure the quality and safety of the agricultural products, meeting both local and regional market demands.
The economic impact of the food hub will be significant. It is expected to generate substantial revenue and create numerous employment opportunities in the post-harvest and agri-logistics sectors, particularly benefiting the rural and remote regions of Guyana. The project aims to stimulate local economies, providing job opportunities and enhancing the livelihoods of those involved in the agricultural supply chain.
Moreover, the food hub will help reduce shipping costs for products from Roraima and address existing logistical challenges. This efficiency is anticipated to lower the cost of fresh and processed agricultural products, benefiting both local consumers and regional markets by making food more affordable and accessible.
This project is also a critical component of Guyana’s broader agricultural strategy. It aligns with the country’s goal to reduce the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) high food import bill by 25 percent by the end of 2025.
Contractors interested in bidding for this project will be tasked with a range of responsibilities. The construction work involves extensive external and foundational works essential for establishing the food hub. The government’s commitment to a transparent and competitive bidding process aims to ensure that the most capable and experienced contractors are selected to deliver this pivotal project.
The deadline for bid submissions is set for 9 am on June 27, and must be be submitted to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board at the Ministry of Finance.
