AGP Executive Report

MV Barima Accountability: Captain Kevin Price, Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts and Goods Superintendent Delon Granderson were jointly charged with 72 counts of murder tied to the ferry disaster, with the DPP saying the decision followed careful legal review as an independent Commission of Inquiry is set to be established. Salvage vs Memorial: Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed’s push to independently raise the MV Barima met a government response that the final call on salvage or memorial status will rest with victims’ families. Fiscal & Tax Modernisation: Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh told CARICOM tax leaders at COTA that Guyana’s predictable fiscal regime and data-driven, AI-enabled tax administration will support investment and stronger revenue collection. Development Banking Rollout: The Guyana Development Bank Bill passed, and officials say the bank will set up offices in every region and recruit staff to help entrepreneurs with proposals, financial management and marketing. Power Sector Upgrade Talks: GPL signed a non-binding MoU with Pacific and Auro Power to explore grid modernisation and distribution upgrades, including renewables and battery storage. Gaming Regulation: Government tabled a revised Gaming Authority Bill to tighten rules on betting shops and mobile betting, including licensing, taxation, responsible gaming and anti-money laundering controls. Caribbean Trade Idea: Economist Prof Roger Hosein argues a proposed regional ferry cargo service could cut intra-CARICOM trade costs and act as trade infrastructure, not just transport. Sports Business & Tech: ExxonMobil Guyana will title sponsor the 2026 Global Super League, while Phi Edge becomes CPL’s official AI prediction partner—both pointing to growing commercial and tech tie-ins in Guyana’s sports economy.

Maritime Accountability: Police charged MV Barima captain Kevin Price, chief mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, and Transport & Harbours Goods Superintendent Delon Granderson with murder over deaths linked to the July 18 ferry sinking; the case was read in Georgetown and remanded to prison, with the matter adjourned to Aug 3. Parliament & Finance: Despite opposition protests over MV Barima, the National Assembly approved a $54.9B supplementary budget and passed the Guyana Development Bank Bill, clearing the way for interest-free, zero-collateral loans up to $3M for SMEs. State Liability & Legal Route: A legal explainer says families may sue the government for negligence under Guyana’s State Liability and Proceedings Act, using representative proceedings under Civil Procedure Rules. Recovery Debate: PM (Ret’d) Mark Phillips signalled the wreck may remain on the seabed, while families continue to demand full salvage. Business & Growth: CARICOM SG Dr. Carla Barnett urged smarter, technology-driven tax systems at the COTA conference in Georgetown, as Guyana pushes digital revenue tools. Sports Tech & Sponsorship: Republic Bank CPL named Phi Edge as Official AI Prediction Partner, while GSL confirmed ExxonMobil Guyana as title sponsor for 2026.

Parliament & Public Finance: Guyana’s National Assembly approved a $54.9B supplementary budget and passed the Guyana Development Bank Bill 2026, clearing the way for interest-free, zero-collateral loans up to $3M for SMEs and entrepreneurs. Development Spending: The supplementary package targets housing ($17.5B), Gas-to-Energy ($19.1B), roads and drainage ($8.5B), agriculture ($8.3B), plus water and coastal airstrip maintenance. NRF Update: The Natural Resource Fund stood at just under US$4B as of May 2026, with the 2025 NRF annual report tabled in Parliament. MV Barima Accountability & Unity: Opposition MPs staged protests over the MV Barima tragedy, demanding resignations and pushing for stronger inquiry terms, while President Ali urged national unity and launched the HEART Initiative for survivors and bereaved families; a five-member international Commission of Inquiry was named to examine causes, response, and negligence. Regional Business & Policy: CARICOM tax chiefs meeting in Guyana urged AI and digital tools to modernise tax administration, while Guyana’s oil and gas chamber welcomed the Barima COI. Energy/Markets: British Serica Energy agreed to acquire Pharos Energy, and global tanker rates rose amid Middle East and Black Sea security risks. Legal Watch: The CCJ is set to deliver its ruling in the Mohameds’ extradition challenge.

MV Barima Response: President Irfaan Ali launched the HEART Initiative (Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience and Trust) to coordinate sustained support for survivors and bereaved families, stressing it is not “compensation” but national solidarity. Maritime Accountability: Guyana’s Government named a five-member international Commission of Inquiry to examine whether negligence, misconduct, dereliction of duty or institutional failures contributed to the MV Barima tragedy; the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber and Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed the move, saying it should be thorough, independent and credible. Energy & Power: PM Mark Phillips urged smarter procurement and deeper regional cooperation as Guyana pushes grid modernisation and a gas-to-energy expansion expected to add about 300MW, with a more diversified, digital electricity system targeted by 2030. Trade & Travel: Guyana’s passport ranks 55th globally on the Henley index, offering visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 88 destinations. Security & Crime: Police destroyed about 35,000 suspected cannabis plants worth GY$11.5M at Upper Berbice River; a Peters Hall businesswoman was robbed of over GY$5M plus phones, watches and jewellery. Business/Mining: Canadian firm XAU Resources signed to acquire the Barbados parent owning Guyana’s Quartzstone Gold Project, following Fortuna’s earlier US$5M earn-in move.

Maritime Safety & Accountability: A US group has sharply criticized Guyana for operating the 87-year-old MV Barima ferry, calling it reckless after the July 11 disaster; meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali has named a five-member Commission of Inquiry panel led by maritime expert Godfrey Phillip Smith, with Captain Hamada Fouda among members. Public Finance: The National Assembly will consider a $54.9B Supplementary Financial Paper, including $17.5B for housing, $8.3B for agriculture (including $3B for GUYSUCO with retroactive sugar worker payments, plus NDIA and rice board funding), and major works and utilities allocations. Procurement & Delivery: The Ministry of Education has retendered the Orealla Secondary School project in Region Six after terminating the original $198.9M contract over delays; the new estimated cost is $207.2M. Trade & Cost Pressures: The US has imposed new 10%–12.5% tariffs on 60 economies under forced-labour rules, with Guyana hit at 12.5%, raising the stakes for exporters seeking exemptions. Energy & Markets: Analysts say new Middle East pipelines could bypass the Strait of Hormuz, reshaping crude flows and shipping economics. Business & Mining: Canadian firm XAU Resources has agreed to acquire the Barbados parent of Guyana’s Quartzstone Gold Project, following Fortuna’s $5M earn-in move. Sports (Local Economy Angle): Guyana Amazon Warriors stayed unbeaten with a 53-run win over Lahore Qalandars, while Lahore Qalandars also beat Desert Vipers in another GSL match.

UN Leadership Race: The UN Security Council begins secret straw-polling to pick the next secretary-general, with diplomats using folded ballots and “same-coloured pens” to keep choices opaque. US Tariffs & Trade: The US imposed new forced-labour tariffs on 60 economies, hitting Guyana with a 12.5% duty on exports to the US, effective July 24, as Washington replaces expiring temporary levies. MV Barima Accountability: President Irfaan Ali named a five-member Commission of Inquiry panel to lead the probe into the MV Barima tragedy, chaired by former Belize judge Godfrey Phillip Smith, with maritime safety specialist Captain Hamada Fouda among members. Indigenous Response: The National Toshaos Council and Indigenous leaders held memorials and called for a comprehensive, transparent, independent review plus long-term support for affected families. Public Finance: The National Assembly will consider a $54.9 billion supplementary budget, including major allocations for housing, agriculture (including GUYSUCO retroactive payments), roads, and drainage.

UN Leadership Race: Uganda has nominated veteran diplomat Olara Otunnu for UN Secretary-General, entering late as debates and consultations ramp up. Maritime Safety & Accountability: As Guyana mourns the MV Barima disaster, APNU is challenging the vessel’s rehabilitation tender documents and calling for scrutiny of safety and procurement; Indigenous leaders also used the National Toshaos Council conference to demand a transparent, independent probe and long-term support. Public Finance: The National Assembly will consider a $54.9B supplementary budget, including $17.5B for housing, $8.3B for agriculture (including $3B for GUYSUCO retroactive payments), and major allocations for roads, drainage, and hinterland infrastructure. US Tariffs & Trade: Guyana faces a new 12.5% US tariff under forced-labour Section 301 rules, with local officials arguing the issue is about laws and enforcement rather than proof of forced labour in exports. Energy Costs: Fuel prices are expected to rise in the near term as global oil-market tensions return. Education & Talent: The Blackman-Waddell Summer Math Institute is back as an independent programme offering free access for gifted students, aiming to build Guyana’s next generation of math and tech talent. Oil & Debt: After six years of oil pumping, Guyana’s debt reportedly increased sixfold, reigniting debate on how oil wealth is translating into fiscal stability.

Maritime Disaster: Guyana’s MV Barima tragedy death toll rose to 73 as two more bodies were recovered; authorities say 69 have been identified and technical teams are repositioning the vessel while search-and-recovery continues. Indigenous Accountability & Support: The National Toshaos Council wrapped up its 2026 conference with prayers and renewed calls for a comprehensive, transparent, independent review of the tragedy plus long-term support for affected families, including psychosocial, financial, and educational help. Parliament & Inquiry Fight: Opposition APNU is pushing for the National Assembly to agree the terms of reference for a commission of inquiry into the sinking, warning of mass political action if blocked. Trade & Exports: The U.S. imposed new forced-labour Section 301 tariffs on 60 economies, with Guyana hit at 12.5%; Guyana says it will keep engaging the U.S. and disputes any claim it has forced-labour exports. Fiscal Update: Finance Minister Ashni Singh confirmed a $54.9B Supplementary Financial Paper for Monday’s sitting, including funding for agriculture (GUYSUCO retroactive payments, rice, NDIA) and accelerated housing work. UN Spotlight: Guyana’s UN SG candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett gained momentum after a UN town hall where candidates pitched reforms and responses to global crises. Sports & Culture: Lahore Qalandars stayed unbeaten in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League; Guyana also mourned literary and sports figure Dr. Ian McDonald.

US–Guyana Trade: The Trump administration imposed new U.S. Section 301 “forced labour” tariffs, hitting Guyana’s exports with a 12.5% duty (replacing the expiring 10% Section 122 global tariff). Guyana’s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud says the move isn’t a new burden and that Guyana is pursuing an exemption while maintaining it has no evidence of forced-labour goods being produced or exported from Guyana. Policy & Legal Backdrop: USTR says the tariffs apply to 60 economies and are meant to enforce a forced-labour import prohibition; the rates run 10% or 12.5% depending on each country’s commitments and enforcement. MV Barima Accountability: The National Toshaos Council praised the government and responders but called for a comprehensive, transparent, independent review of the MV Barima tragedy, plus long-term support for families and survivors. Local Governance & Oversight: Opposition APNU wants the National Assembly to debate and approve terms of reference for an independent commission of inquiry into the ferry disaster. Supply Chain Relief: The Ministry of Public Works announced an interim open-barge cargo service to Port Kaituma (no passengers) to keep essential supplies moving while normal transport is disrupted. UN Leadership Race: Guyana’s UN candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett took part in the UN town hall debate, pitching reforms and a more effective, credible UN amid Security Council deadlock and financial strain.

US Tariffs on Guyana Exports: The U.S. has launched sweeping Section 301 “forced labour” tariffs covering 60 economies, with Guyana hit at a 12.5% rate. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud says it replaces an expiring 10% levy and is not a new burden or a special judgment on Guyana, while officials continue engagement with USTR. Maritime Safety Fallout (MV Barima): Guyana’s ferry disaster continues to spark political pressure as opposition figures call for Parliament-led next steps before a Commission of Inquiry, while others argue oversight safeguards were dismantled. Interim Supply Route to Port Kaituma: The Ministry of Public Works introduced a free interim open-barge cargo service to keep essential goods moving to Port Kaituma, with no passengers carried. UN Leadership Race (Rodrigues-Birkett): Guyana’s UN candidate Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett took part in a public UN town hall, focusing on restoring credibility and keeping the UN relevant amid conflict and Security Council paralysis. CARIFTA 2027 in Guyana: NACAC confirmed the 2027 CARIFTA Games will be hosted in Guyana, with Barbados set for 2028. Oil & Energy Context: Coverage also highlights how global trade and Middle East risks are shaping major oil company outlooks, with Guyana repeatedly referenced as a key growth market.

UN Leadership Watch: Six candidates for UN Secretary-General, including Guyana’s Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, faced diplomats and civil society in a televised town hall as the selection process nears, with focus on restoring UN credibility amid conflict and a budget crisis. US Tariffs & Trade Impact: The US rolled out new 10%–12.5% tariffs on 60 economies over forced-labour import claims; Guyana is listed at 12.5%, raising potential costs for regional exporters and supply chains. MV Barima Aftermath: Guyana’s ferry disaster recovery continues with 72 deaths confirmed and dozens still unaccounted for; opposition figures are pushing for Parliament-led next steps and an independent international Commission of Inquiry, while families begin funerals. Maritime Safety Debate: Critics argue oversight safeguards were dismantled and the vessel’s seaworthiness can’t be judged by age alone—maintenance and inspections matter. Energy & Finance Signals: Eco Atlantic reported a wider full-year net loss, while U92 Energy announced an upsized public offering—both are reminders of shifting risk and capital flows around Guyana’s energy sector. Migration for Growth: IOM’s Amy Pope visited Guyana to discuss using migration to ease labour shortages while protecting migrants’ rights. Business Notes: LJ Williams narrowed losses in Q1, and Bryden pi is preparing a warehouse move to a new Chaguanas distribution hub.

Maritime Accountability: Transparency Institute of Guyana (TIGI) president Mike Singh is calling for an independent international Commission of Inquiry into the MV Barima capsizing and wants Public Works Minister Juan Edghill sacked, arguing Guyana’s local police probe lacks maritime expertise. Recovery Update: Authorities say the death toll from the ferry disaster has reached 65 with 76 rescued, as divers and international teams expand the search and work to improve access to the wreck. Detentions & Scrutiny: The Guyana Police Force has detained the ferry captain and a senior Transport and Harbours Department official, with further arrests tied to discrepancies between manifests and what was loaded, while questions grow over seaworthiness and possible wrongdoing. Fuel Prices Watch: A fuel executive expects pump prices to rise by 15–20 cents per litre in coming weeks amid US-Iran conflict developments and renewed shipping risk around key trade routes. UN Leadership Race: Guyana’s Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett is among six candidates set for a televised UN secretary-general debate Thursday, as the UN faces financial and confidence pressure.

MV Barima Disaster: Guyana’s ferry tragedy remains the dominant business-and-economy story, with the death toll now put at 65 and 76 survivors reported, as search and recovery intensifies and international assets from Trinidad and Tobago and Brazil join local teams; officials say the vessel’s manifest was inaccurate and authorities are expanding the search area while technical teams assess how to improve access to the wreck. Accountability & Investigations: Opposition leaders and civil society are pushing for independent maritime safety investigations and even ministerial resignation, arguing the state cannot be trusted to investigate itself; the government says a Commission of Inquiry is being set up, while critics insist it must meet international marine safety requirements. Local Relief Measures: New Amsterdam has waived burial plot fees for families of MV Barima victims, easing immediate costs amid grief. Energy & Investment Context: A US investment mapping report highlights growing US focus on Guyana’s energy and digital infrastructure, even as the country faces the human cost of underinvestment in transport safety. Global Spotlight: Guyana’s Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett is among six candidates set for a televised UN Secretary-General debate, keeping Guyana in international governance headlines.

MV Barima Disaster: Guyana’s MV Barima death toll has climbed to 53, with 50 still missing, after authorities revised the number aboard to 179 (including 18 crew) using dockside surveillance footage—raising fresh questions about manifest accuracy and boarding controls. Accountability & Safety Debate: Opposition and civil society are intensifying calls for Public Works Minister Juan Edghill’s removal, while critics argue a Commission of Inquiry must be paired with an independent marine safety investigation; others also question maintenance for the decades-old ferry and the lack of insurance, saying the state carried the financial risk. Regional Response: Trinidad and Tobago has joined search and recovery, and the government has declared national mourning as families await identifications and repatriations. Maritime Incidents: In Canje River, two boats collided, leaving eight injured and one captain in custody. Tourism & Business: Guyana will host the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (Oct 5–9) for the first time, positioning the country for MICE travel. Capital Markets: U92 Energy filed for a Canadian public offering of up to $6m. Health Regulation: PAHO supported Guyana in building a national medicines and vaccines regulatory system.

Maritime Disaster Update: Guyana’s MV Barima tragedy remains the top story as the death toll climbs to 103 with 76 survivors accounted for, after 22 more bodies were recovered on Day Three; PM Mark Phillips says families are being supported through identification, postmortems, and funeral arrangements. Accountability Pressure: Opposition and stakeholders are calling for the removal of Public Works Minister Juan Edghill (and others) amid claims of systemic failures, while the dispatch team was placed on administrative leave pending investigation. Operational & Safety Questions: The government says the US$12.7M MV Ma Lisha is still idle because the Port Kaituma wharf suffered soil-shift structural problems; meanwhile, reports continue about manifest irregularities and drug-test results involving the captain and engineer. Regional Response: T&T has deployed air and sea assets to assist search efforts, and Venezuela expressed solidarity. Other Local Incidents: Police are investigating a $2.61M firearm licence fraud (wanted: David Singh) and an 8-injury boat collision in the Canje River that led to an arrest of one captain. Business & Sports: GAC is named official automotive partner for the Global Super League in Guyana, while cricket sponsorships and CPL-related tourism chatter continue.

MV Barima Disaster: Guyana’s ferry tragedy deepened as authorities confirmed 27 bodies recovered and 83 people still missing, with the PM saying investigators now believe 179 aboard despite manifest figures showing fewer. The captain and at least one crew member are in police custody after marijuana-positive tests, while a wider probe targets possible institutional failures and negligence. Search & Rescue: President Ali vowed the operation will continue—“every minute matters”—as teams use sonar and divers, with support from regional partners including Trinidad and Tobago and French Guiana. Accountability Push: Calls are growing for Public Works Minister Juan Edghill (and other officials) to be removed, while the Amerindian Peoples Association argues the disaster exposed long ignored safety and maintenance concerns. Local Crime Probe: Separately, police searched Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed’s Friendship property in the reopened “Paper Shorts” murder case. Business & Economy: Omai Gold announced CEO Elaine Ellingham will present at a virtual investor conference on July 23. Energy/Industry: Rystad highlights Guyana as a rising FPSO hotspot, with new units planned through 2028. Regional Trade/Policy: Airlines warned Europe’s proposed EU carbon charge could hit carriers with a “double whammy,” even as Emirates says it already offsets under CORSIA. Sports Business: GAC named Official Automotive Partner for Guyana’s Global Super League season. Urban Impact: A major Lacytown Georgetown fire displaced over 20 residents, disrupting a mixed-use building housing migrant tenants and a local shop.