Guyana recorded an increase in foreign-currency availability during the first half of 2026, but the additional supply has not eliminated shortages facing businesses and consumers seeking US dollars.
Total foreign-currency availability reached US$3.115 billion between January and June, up 27.7% from US$2.440 billion during the same period last year. Commercial banks purchased US$2.279 billion in foreign currency during the period, while foreign-currency injections increased to US$836 million from US$642 million a year earlier.
Despite the increase, commercial banks have reported just over US$200 million in outstanding foreign-currency demand, with some requests carried forward from earlier months because they were not fully met.
The pressure is being driven in part by increased consumer spending, business expansion and other transactions requiring US dollars. President Irfaan Ali said changing consumer behaviour is also contributing to demand, pointing to the sharp increase in credit-card settlements.
Credit-card settlements rose from approximately US$140 million in 2024 to US$430 million in 2025, while approximately US$356 million had already been recorded in 2026.
For consumers, the pressure is most visible when US dollars are needed for overseas education, travel, medical expenses, imported goods and online purchases. Businesses also require foreign currency to pay overseas suppliers and finance imports.
The government is now examining the structure of foreign-currency demand, including the use of US dollars by large corporate users and the repatriation of profits. Commercial banks have been asked to provide additional information on outstanding demand and how foreign currency is being used.
The pressure is occurring against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding domestic economy. Guyana’s economy grew by an estimated 33.3% during the first half of 2026, while the non-oil economy expanded by 10.1%. Construction grew by 24.7%, while services expanded by 7.2%.
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