The first concrete has been poured for the $4.5 billion Parika International Port Facility and Waterfront Development project in Region Three.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali provided the update via his social media platform on Saturday.
The facility is expected to accommodate cruise liners and cargo vessels transporting goods across the Caribbean, while creating new opportunities for luxury travel and tourism.
When completed, the port will modernise Guyana’s export processes and strengthen regional trade links, improving access to markets throughout the Caribbean.
Gaico Construction, along with Toolsie Persaud Limited and A&S General Contractors, is undertaking the first phase of construction.
Plans for the second phase include developing a marina to accommodate yachts arriving from the Caribbean and other international destinations.
The wider waterfront area will also be transformed into a tourism and entertainment hub, featuring restaurants and recreational facilities.
The development is expected to provide visitors with greater access to Essequibo’s natural attractions, biodiversity and tourism offerings.
The Parika project complements several major initiatives, including the gas-to-energy project, the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase development, and investments in housing, roads, drainage, and irrigation systems.
These projects are intended to create new economic opportunities, improve connectivity and support long-term national development.