The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recognised Guyana’s position at the forefront of market-based forest conservation, highlighting the country’s issuance of millions of carbon credits and sales on international markets.
In its 2026 Article IV Consultation report, the Fund pointed to Guyana’s forest-carbon programme as part of its wider efforts to advance climate objectives while diversifying its energy mix.
“Guyana remains at the forefront in market-based forest conservation while diversifying its energy mix,” the IMF stated.
According to the report, about 32 million carbon credits have been issued under the 2021–2024 ART-TREES certification. These credits are eligible for use by airlines under the United Nations Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation.
The IMF reported that Guyana had already sold more than 12 million credits at prices averaging US$22 per tonne, demonstrating the country’s participation in international carbon markets.
The Fund also noted that Guyana is becoming a global leader in biodiversity, placing its forest-conservation efforts alongside other environmental initiatives.
During discussions with the IMF, the Guyanese authorities highlighted their continued efforts to generate carbon-credit revenues and use the proceeds to support Amerindian communities and climate-adaptation initiatives.
The report places these efforts within the government’s broader development strategy. The IMF welcomed the five-year development plan’s focus on economic diversification, resilience and sustainability, noting that it builds on the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030.
Alongside forest conservation, the Fund highlighted steps to change the country’s energy mix. It expects the Gas-to-Energy project to considerably reduce fuel-based power generation by 2027, supporting Guyana’s climate objectives.
The authorities also pointed to expanded solar-power generation and the planned displacement of heavy fuel oil with natural gas for electricity production.
On adaptation, the IMF reported that government spending on sea defences amounts to 0.2 percent of Gross Domestic Product. It identified investments in sea defences, drainage and climate-resilient agriculture as important to strengthening the country’s ability to withstand climate-related shocks.
