Onverwagt Shrimp Project enters retail market through Massy Stores

Massy Stores (Guyana) Inc. and the Ministry of Agriculture have launched the sale of locally produced Vannamei shrimp from the Onverwagt Prawns Project in Region Five.

The shrimp is now available at all Massy Stores locations nationwide, marking the entry of the government-backed aquaculture initiative into the domestic retail market.

The Onverwagt Prawns Project, an agricultural and aquaculture venture under the Government of Guyana, is projected to produce about 360 tonnes of shrimp annually. The project forms part of the ministry’s food security strategy and aims to expand Guyana’s shrimp industry, reduce seafood imports, create income opportunities for farmers, and position the country for future regional exports.

“Our partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture demonstrates how public policy and private sector collaboration can translate vision into tangible outcomes,” said Christpen Bobb-Semple, assistant vice-president and general manager of Massy Stores (Guyana) Inc. “By supporting initiatives such as the Onverwagt Vannamei Shrimp Project, we are contributing to Guyana’s non-oil economic diversification while strengthening local value chains,” he added.

The Onverwagt initiative is among a series of investments conceptualised by President Irfaan Ali to expand aquaculture, modernise agriculture, and build a more resilient food system.

Massy Stores said the launch aligns with its commitment to promoting locally produced goods under the “Brand Guyana” initiative. The retailer has allocated dedicated shelf space at its Providence and Mega outlets for export-ready Guyanese products and has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture on programmes such as the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP), facilitating market access for products including pepper jelly and leafy vegetables.

The company said it will continue working with the ministry to support local production, strengthen food security, and expand opportunities for Guyanese producers.