$3.7B allocated to boost tourism and cultural development in 2026 budget

Feb 01, 2026 News

…preparatory works to advance for state-of-the-art museum

(Kaieteur News) – The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has allocated $3.7 billion in the 2026 National Budget for the advancement of Guyana’s tourism and cultural heritage sector, which includes preparatory works for a state-of-the-art museum.

The announcement was made on Monday by Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, during the presentation of Budget 2026 in the National Assembly.

Outlining the Government’s vision for the new term, Dr. Singh emphasised the importance of advancing Guyana’s cultural sector, with the aim of positioning the country as a regional leader in cultural development and tourism.

$3.7B allocated to boost tourism and cultural development in 2026 budget

Guyana National Museum.

“Over the next five years, we will transform the sector by ensuring sustainable and world-class tourism experiences, expanding air and domestic connectivity, creating jobs and empowering communities, and making travel more affordable for our citizens and visitors,” Dr. Singh said. He added that the government will review, update, and implement the National Strategic Tourism Action Plan to help Guyana reach its full potential in the tourism and culture sector.

As part of efforts to strengthen Guyana’s Orange Economy, Dr. Singh announced that work will move forward on a state-of-the-art museum and art gallery, as well as the Palmyra Cultural Market. A total of $1.3 billion has been budgeted for these initiatives. According to the minister, “These facilities will provide a vibrant marketplace for creative expression and cultural exchange.”

Additionally, in a bid to position Guyana as a preferred destination for conferences, weddings, and reunions, particularly within the diaspora market, the Government will construct a new Hospitality and Tourism Institute. Dr. Singh stated that the institute is expected to open later this year, with $2.2 billion allocated for the project.

“Mr. Speaker, diversifying Guyana’s tourism products is central to Government’s strategy to grow the sector more rapidly, retain more tourism revenue locally, and ensure that benefits reach communities across the country, not just traditional tourism hotspots,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Singh announced that Guyana is also set to host the State of the Industry Conference, a key Caribbean tourism organisation event that will focus on innovation and sustainability in the tourism sector across Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

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2026 budget, cultural development, museum, Tourism

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