The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has set the mining industry a production target of 400,000 ounces in 2012, the year in which the association is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary. And according to GGDMA President Patrick Harding the industry has every confidence that with the support of the various stakeholders, primarily the government of Guyana, the target can be achieved. Last year, some 363,000 ounces of gold were sold to the Guyana Gold Board and this year’s production target represents a 10 per cent increase over 2011.
Harding told Stabroek Business that increased production targets pointed to the ever rising importance of gold in the Guyana economy. Earnings from the precious metal now contribute more to the Guyana economy than sugar, rice and forestry, together. Harding disclosed that the mining industry currently services more than 100,000 Guyanese and that the industry is also a major supporter of the country’s air, land and sea transport services.
Several prominent local companies including MACORP, T Geddes Grant Ltd GENEQUIP Parts and Supplies, JOHIL, Crown Mining and JAPARTS are suppliers to the