Forex trading operates within a legal framework in Guyana, governed by the Bank of Guyana and various financial regulations (1). The country has established a comprehensive regulatory structure that oversees foreign currency dealings through licensed institutions known as cambios, which are authorized to buy and sell foreign currencies under the Dealers in Foreign Currency (Licensing) Act 1989.
The Bank of Guyana serves as the primary regulatory authority for foreign exchange activities, having assumed full responsibility for administering foreign currency licensing in 1995 when the Act was amended to transfer this power from the Minister of Finance (1). Additionally, the Government of Guyana does not impose foreign exchange controls, allowing U.S. dollars to be exchanged freely at cambios and banks throughout the country (2).
"Cambios are licensed to buy and sell foreign currencies. The Act originally gave the Minister of Finance the power to grant licences, renewable annually. In 1995 the Act was amended, transferring to the Bank of Guyana, in consultation with the Minister, full responsibility for administering the Act."
Individual forex trading by retail traders is permitted in Guyana, though participants must ensure they work with properly licensed brokers. The Bank of Guyana maintains strict supervision over dealers in foreign currency through on-site inspections and off-site monitoring to ensure compliance with licensing requirements and anti-money laundering regulations. All forex-related activities must adhere to the country's financial laws, including the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act 2009, which places reporting obligations on financial service providers (1).
Source:
https://bankofguyana.org.gy/bog/regulatory-framework/overview
https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/guyana-trade-financing
Last updated: 01-06-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
