Guyana: Payment Landscape for Businesses
Guyana's payment ecosystem is evolving rapidly alongside the country's economic growth driven by the oil and gas sector. This overview covers the payment infrastructure, regulations, and practical considerations for businesses operating in Guyana.
Payment Infrastructure Overview
Guyana's financial system is regulated by the Bank of Guyana (BOG), which oversees monetary policy, banking supervision, and payment systems.
Banking sector: Major banks include Republic Bank Guyana, Demerara Bank, Citizens Bank, and Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI). These institutions provide merchant services and business banking.
Card networks: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at larger merchants. Debit card usage is growing but less widespread than in neighboring Caribbean nations.
Mobile money: Services are expanding to serve the unbanked population. Adoption is increasing, particularly in areas with limited bank branch access.
Digital payments: The sector is developing rapidly with new entrants and services targeting the growing economy.
Currency and Exchange
Currency: Guyanese Dollar (GYD)
Exchange rate: Managed float. The Bank of Guyana intervenes to maintain stability.
Foreign currency: USD is widely used, particularly in the oil and gas sector and for international transactions. Foreign currency accounts are available at commercial banks.
Repatriation: Subject to Bank of Guyana regulations. Documentation requirements apply for foreign currency transfers.
Business Registration Requirements
To accept electronic payments in Guyana, businesses typically need:
Business registration: Register with the Deeds Registry for incorporated entities or as a sole trader/partnership.
TIN registration: Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number from the Guyana Revenue Authority.
VAT registration: Businesses exceeding the threshold must register for Value Added Tax.
Bank account: A business bank account is required for merchant services.
Merchant Services
POS terminals: Available from commercial banks. Availability and requirements vary. Application process may require business documentation and bank relationship.
Online payments: Limited local options. International payment processors serve businesses with appropriate setup.
Payment links: Services like HandyPay enable card acceptance without traditional POS infrastructure, particularly useful given infrastructure limitations.
Transaction Fees
Typical fee structures for card acceptance in Guyana:
| Payment Type | Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Local debit | 1.5% - 3% |
| Credit card | 2.5% - 3.5% |
| International card | 3% - 4% |
| Payment links | 2.9% - 3.5% |
Fees vary by provider and may be higher than regional averages due to market development stage.
Regulatory Considerations
Anti-money laundering (AML): The Financial Intelligence Unit oversees AML compliance. Enhanced due diligence applies given Guyana's developing regulatory framework.
Data protection: Regulations are developing. Businesses should implement reasonable data security measures.
Consumer protection: The Consumer Affairs Division handles consumer complaints and protection matters.
Foreign exchange: The Bank of Guyana regulates foreign exchange transactions. Compliance with reporting requirements is essential.
Settlement Times
Local debit transactions: Typically settle within 1-2 business days.
Credit card transactions: Settlement within 2-3 business days.
International payments: May take 3-5 business days depending on the processor.
Bank transfers: 1-3 business days depending on banks involved.
Common Business Types and Payment Needs
Oil and gas services: B2B transactions often in USD. International payment capabilities essential. High-value transactions common.
Mining and natural resources: Similar to oil and gas with international payment needs.
Retail: Cash dominant but card acceptance growing in Georgetown. POS adoption increasing.
Service businesses: Cash common. Payment links offer opportunity for modernization.
Tourism: Growing sector requiring international card acceptance. Eco-tourism and adventure travel segments expanding.
Agriculture: Primarily cash-based. Digital payment adoption limited.
Challenges and Considerations
Infrastructure limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly. Power reliability can affect electronic payment systems.
Cash prevalence: Cash remains the dominant payment method for most transactions outside Georgetown.
Banking access: Bank branch and ATM coverage limited in rural areas.
Regulatory development: Payment regulations are evolving. Stay informed of changes.
Currency volatility: Exchange rate fluctuations can affect businesses dealing in multiple currencies.
Opportunities
Growing economy: Oil revenues are driving economic expansion and infrastructure investment.
Underserved market: Limited competition in digital payments creates opportunities.
Expatriate workforce: International workers in the energy sector expect modern payment options.
Regional integration: CARICOM membership facilitates regional business relationships.
Resources
Bank of Guyana: bankofguyana.org.gy - Central bank regulations and payment system information
Deeds Registry: Business registration services
Guyana Revenue Authority: gra.gov.gy - Tax registration and compliance
Related Guides
- How to Accept Payments in Guyana
- How to Accept Payments in Jamaica
- How to Accept Payments in Trinidad
- Payment Links vs Payment Gateways