US–Guyana diplomacy: Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau heads to Guyana Aug 9–12 to meet President Irfaan Ali and Cabinet on expanding economic cooperation, investment, energy and critical minerals. Bauxite push: The US Department of War announced a US$150M package (US$85.5M equity plus US$64.5M private co-investment) to acquire and expand Guyana’s First Bauxite mine, add calcination in Guyana and support a brown-fused alumina project in the US—aimed at securing refractory-grade bauxite supply. Oil accountability row: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed says Exxon’s confirmation that it fully recovered its US$55B investment raises a key question: what share of oil profits now flows to Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund. Local markets & infrastructure: New Amsterdam (Region Six) gets a modernised municipal market and vendors’ hub under the Model Village Initiative, alongside drains, utility pole upgrades and fire hydrant expansion; Skeldon Market is also set for upgrades. Safety regulation: LPG cylinder and low-pressure regulator standards become compulsory after explosion concerns, with GNBS tightening compliance markings and safety requirements. Tourism momentum: Guyana Tourism Authority reports 226,463 visitors in Jan–Jun 2026, up 12%, with a target of 500,000+ by year-end. Trade connectivity: Air Cargo Pack completed its first Bogotá–Georgetown cargo flight, boosting Latin America links for importers and exporters.