By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
As anticipation builds for Guyana’s 2026 National Budget to be presented on Monday, January 26, Business Coach and Action Invest Caribbean Chairman Dr. Vishu Doerga has outlined a series of policy priorities he believes would deliver broad-based benefits to citizens and the wider economy.
Central among his proposals is an increase in the personal income tax threshold from the current $130,000 to $160,000, a move he says would provide sustained relief for working Guyanese while encouraging employment and productivity.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with HGPTV Nightly News, Dr. Doerga said his focus is on ensuring that all contributors to Guyana’s development—both citizens and visitors—are fairly rewarded for their efforts.
“What I am very concerned about is to ensure that every Guyanese, including every visitor, because they too are contributing to the development, is rewarded for their efforts,” Doerga stated.
While commending the government’s efforts to diversify the business sector, Doerga stressed that long-term sustainability must remain a priority, particularly for underprivileged and economically vulnerable groups. He argued that employment-driven incentives are more effective than short-term cash handouts.
According to Doerga, increasing the tax-free income threshold would immediately put more disposable income in workers’ hands, strengthening household stability and encouraging upward mobility.
“One way of encouraging job growth is by increasing the threshold, which is currently at $130,000. I believe it should be moved to $160,000,” he said.
From an economic standpoint, Doerga explained that one-off cash grants—such as a $100,000 payout—translate to roughly $8,000 per month when spread across a year. By contrast, a higher tax threshold delivers continuous monthly benefits while motivating individuals to remain employed and improve their earning capacity.
He also cautioned that Guyana must plan prudently for the future, particularly in the event of fluctuations in global oil prices. In such circumstances, he noted, large-scale cash grants may not be financially sustainable.
Instead, Doerga advocated for policies that equip citizens with skills, incentives, and opportunities to support themselves independently, while still maintaining targeted assistance for those facing severe hardship.
As Budget 2026 approaches, his proposals add to the growing national conversation on how best to translate Guyana’s economic growth into lasting, inclusive prosperity.
