Record $1.558 trillion budget aims to share growth across Guyana – Teixeira

…urges citizens to assess budget based on practical impact

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira has described Guyana’s $1.558 trillion Budget 2026 as a people-centred plan aimed at expanding social support, strengthening public services and ensuring that economic growth translates into improved living conditions nationwide. In a statement issued following the presentation of the budget, Teixeira noted that it is the largest national budget in Guyana’s history and is fully financed without the introduction of new taxes. She said the budget builds on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s focus on inclusive development and shared prosperity.

According to the Minister, Budget 2026 increases direct support to households through measures such as a higher income tax threshold, expanded “Because We Care” cash grants, new transportation assistance for pensioners and schoolchildren, a $100,000 grant for every newborn and increased public assistance and old-age pension payments. She said these initiatives will place billions of dollars in disposable income into the hands of citizens. Teixeira also pointed to major allocations for key social sectors, including $183.6 billion for education and $161.1 billion for healthcare, aimed at expanding access and modernising systems across the country. Housing has been allocated $159.1 billion, while significant investments were also earmarked for water, energy diversification, roads and bridges and drainage and irrigation. The budget includes targeted funding for vulnerable groups, with $316.5 million allocated for persons living with disabilities, $78.3 billion for children, women and the elderly and $7.5 billion for Amerindian and hinterland communities. Teixeira said these allocations reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring that development benefits all communities. She further noted that investments in agriculture, mining, manufacturing and energy are expected to support job creation and expand economic opportunities, while the continuation of the zero-per cent excise tax on fuel and energy diversification initiatives will provide relief to households and businesses. Teixeira said Budget 2026 also supports governance reforms, transparency and the use of technology to improve public service delivery and citizen participation. Funding has been allocated to strengthen national reporting mechanisms and constitutional bodies, in keeping with Guyana’s international obligations. She urged citizens to assess the budget based on its practical impact, stating that investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and housing are directly linked to improved access to services and economic participation.
According to Teixeira, Budget 2026 reflects the Government’s commitment to placing people at the centre of national development and ensuring that growth is felt across all regions of Guyana.