By Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News |
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has officially launched its new Digital Local Content Registration Portal, a central pillar of the government’s 2026 push to modernize the oil and gas supply chain. Launched on Friday, February 13, at Duke Lodge, the portal replaces a manual, email-based system that had become “heavily taxed” by the sector’s rapid growth.
The new system, managed by the Local Content Secretariat (LCS), introduces automated workflows and “application-based timers” designed to guarantee predictability for Guyanese businesses.
New Processing Timelines (Effective Immediately)
Under the 2026 framework, the Secretariat has established clear, binding deadlines for issuing Local Content Certificates. Processing begins only after a complete documentation bundle is submitted.
| Business Type | New Applications | Renewals |
| Sole Proprietors & Landlords | 5 Working Days | 3 Working Days |
| 100% Guyanese-Owned Firms | 15 Working Days | 10 Working Days |
| All Other Companies | 21 Working Days | 15 Working Days |
Key Features of the Digital Portal
- Real-Time Tracking: For the first time, suppliers can log in to a personalized dashboard to see exactly where their application sits—whether it is under review, pending additional documents, or approved.
- Automated Notifications: The system sends proactive alerts to Guyanese businesses three months before their current certificates expire, preventing lapses in eligibility.
- Digital Hub: The portal centralizes all submissions, eliminating the need for physical paperwork or follow-up emails to the Secretariat.
- Transparency & Accountability: Minister Vickram Bharrat noted that the automation reduces “administrative bottlenecks” and provides an audit trail for every application, strengthening trust in the system.
“By introducing clear timelines, automation, and real-time tracking, we are ensuring that Guyanese businesses can engage the oil and gas sector with greater confidence,” said LCS Director Michael Munroe.
A Strategic Shift for the Private Sector
The launch follows a record-breaking 2025, where over $743 million (USD) in local content expenditures flowed to Guyanese firms. However, many businesses reported lengthy delays in receiving the certificates required to bid on contracts.
Minister Bharrat emphasized that the portal is more than just a convenience; it is a tool for due diligence. The automated system is designed to flag potential “fronting” or bad actors who have previously attempted to bypass ownership requirements.
What Suppliers Need to Do
The Ministry is encouraging all 1,200+ currently registered businesses and new applicants to:
- Register on the Portal: Visit the official Local Content Register to set up a digital profile.
- Review the New Checklist: An updated list of required documents (TIN, NIS, Beneficial Ownership declarations, etc.) is now available on the petroleum.gov.gy website.
- Use the App: The government continues to promote the Local Content App (launched in early 2025) as a secondary tool to connect suppliers with prime contractors.
