The Agriculture Ministry on Saturday announced that it has received the first shipment of 300 pregnant heifers under the Government of Guyana’s national herd expansion programme aimed at increasing the country’s cattle population and strengthening the livestock industry. The programme provides for the procurement of 1,000 pregnant heifers from Brazil to enhance the national breeding herd and support increased beef and dairy production.

The procurement was executed through the national tendering process. A total of four bids were received: one local and three international bidders, evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Procurement Act. Following the evaluation process, the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) awarded the contract to Coopera of Brazil, the successful bidder, at a price of $245,000 per pregnant heifer. The Ministry confirms that the animals have successfully completed all required veterinary health inspections, testing and quarantine procedures prior to export and satisfy Guyana’s animal health import requirements. The first consignment is currently being transported to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Breeding and Research Centre at Ebini, Berbice River, where the animals will become part of the national breeding programme designed to improve the country’s genetic stock and expand cattle production.

This investment reflects the Government’s continued commitment to building a modern and resilient livestock industry. By expanding the national herd with quality breeding animals, the initiative will support increased livestock production, improve opportunities for farmers, reduce dependence on imported breeding stock, and contribute to Guyana’s food security objectives.