DDL launches El Dorado 60th Independence Anniversary Special Reserve Rum

– PM lauds rum industry as important part of Guyana’s heritage

Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips called Guyana’s rum industry an important part of the country’s heritage, economy and cultural identity. During the launch of the El Dorado Grand Special Reserve – an exclusive limited-edition rum produced by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) in commemoration of Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary – at the Rum Heritage Museum, the PM lauded the effort that goes into rum production in Guyana. He said that rum is deeply connected to Guyana’s history, agriculture, craftsmanship and economic development, noting that the industry is closely linked to the sugar industry.

“Rum is an important export earner for our country. You cannot have rum without molasses. You cannot have molasses without sugar. So, when we talk about the future of sugar, we must also talk about the future of rum and the thousands of jobs, the foreign exchange, and the cultural identity that depend on it.” PM Phillips said the recent performance of Guyana’s rum exports shows both the sector’s earning potential and its vulnerability to global market conditions, noting that exports of rum and other spirits fluctuated over the years, rising from US$37 million in 2016 to a peak of US$61.7 million in 2022 before declining to US$24.2 million in 2025.
He explained that the trend reflects weaker global demand, reduced consumer spending in key export markets, and lower demand for both bulk and branded alcoholic products, reinforcing the need to protect the industry and strengthen Guyana’s position in the premium rum market.
“In this regard, one has to commend the vision and foresight of DDL. Years ago, DDL recognised the need to transition increasingly towards branded liquor. They saw that the future was not in selling rum by the tanker but by the bottle – and not just any bottle, but a premium bottle.” This foresight, the PM expressed, has allowed Guyana to enter the premium segment of the global rum market while helping to promote one of the country’s most recognisable manufactured products.

“When you choose El Dorado, you are not just choosing a fine rum. You are keeping a heritage industry alive. You are protecting jobs. You are securing the industry until such time as things improve on the global stage.”
Reflecting on the significance of the launch, PM Phillips congratulated DDL on commemorating Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee through a product that celebrates national history, local skill and world-class production. He described the rum as a tribute to Guyana’s journey as an independent nation.
“El Dorado Grand Special Reserve is not just a limited-edition rum… It signifies 60 years of resilience, flavour, and pride.” He noted that DDL had undertaken a similar initiative for Guyana’s 50th independence anniversary, adding that the company continues to align its brand with the country’s historic milestones.
“This month we are toasting to Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee. 60 years ago, Guyana raised its own flag for the first time. Tonight, we raise a glass, not in vanity, but in honour. Honour to those who came before. Honour to your workers, the master blenders, the coopers, the bottlers, the marketers, and every Guyanese who believed that what we produce is world-class.” He also added that Guyana’s rum industry continues to carry the country’s name to the world, while preserving the heritage, skill and identity that have made Guyanese rum internationally recognised.