Proceedings of the 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Proceedings of the First Statutory Council Meeting 2024
Meetings & Events
Report
GCCI Mission, Vision & Core Values
CHAMBER PROFILE
The GCCI is the oldest private sector representative organization in Guyana (established in 1890) and is a member-driven and professionally staffed non-profit association of business people committed to improving the economic climate and quality of life in Guyana. We are legislatively mandated under the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Act Chapter 89:03 of the laws of Guyana.
The Chamber’s strength lies in the size and diversity of its membership—both large and small businesses from virtually every sector are represented.
MISSION
The GCCI represents the voice of the business community in Guyana and strives to advocate policies, stimulate trade and investment, connect businesses, sustain economic growth and expand member opportunities with the aim of contributing to a stable and sustainable economic and social environment in Guyana where businesses can prosper.
CORE VALUES
Commitment-The Chamber is in business for business and is committed to preserving a stable economic environment, responding to members’ needs, connecting businesses together, improving prosperity and business opportunities within Guyana.
• Integrity-The Chamber is a non-partisan, open, honest and accountable organisation, which bases its decisions on driving and supporting business development in Guyana. Our members also subscribe to a Code of Conduct in the execution of their operations.
• Courtesy-It remains a core value of the Chamber that the contribution of its Council, its staff and members is valued and appreciated.
• Collaboration-The Chamber values strong working relationships with other agencies and stakeholders.
President’s Message at the Annual General Meeting 2025
INTRODUCTION
It is my honour to address you on the hosting of the 135th Annual General Meeting, and present to you the President’s report of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Over the last two years, I have had the privilege of sitting at the helm of this prestigious organisation—one that was formed and operated with purpose for over a century. Beyond being a voice for the business community, the Chamber has been the hand that’s held the mantle of capacity-building for local businesses and an ear to listen to your delicate challenges and advocate in your interest.
The GCCI has remained resolute in its mandate and work plan—leveraging on collaborations and partnerships to support our membership which continues to increase. For the fiscal year 2024-2025, the Chamber saw the entrance of 125 new members. This growth in membership is reflective of the Chamber’s contribution to the country’s business landscape and the benefits derived from our advocacy work
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
The GCCI reported a deficit of $1.4 million for 2024, primarily due to write-offs related to prior years’ subscriptions and events. Without these write-offs, the outcome would have been comparable to 2023.
Gross revenue increased by 18.30% ($16.37 million), with events contributing significantly—a 63% rise ($19.8 million).
Key revenue earners included:
• The Business Development Forum (BDF): Reintroduced in 2024 after not being held in 2023, generating $7.8 million, and
• The Offshore Technology Conference (OTC): GCCI took over representation from GO-Invest, leading to revenue of $18.8 million—an increase of $17.4 million (1,245%) from $1.4 million in 2023.
Additional revenue growth came from increased advertising in the Business Guyana Magazine and higher demand for the Annual Awards Gala. In 2024, these brought in a combined $36.61 million—$16.65 million from the magazine and $15.96 million from the Gala.
However, expenses also increased:
• Event expenses increased by $12.98 million (41.23%),
• Administrative expenses grew by $14.68 million (37.79%) due to hiring more professionals to uphold GCCI’s position as a BSO that sincerely advocates for the economic wellbeing of the business community, and Guyana as a whole.
Going forward, GCCI aims to enhance revenue streams, optimise costs, and continue delivering value to its members.
ADVOCACY
The GCCI’s work plan over the last year has seen intense commitment to its advocacy efforts. The Chamber engaged a number of organisations and individuals—inclusive of the diplomatic community, state actors and agencies, and the business community.
The Chamber met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Ms. Jean Kamau; High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, His Excellency Sebastien Sigouin; British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Jane Miller OBE; Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana, H.E. Liselle Remelda Blankendal; Non-Resident Ambassador of Zambia to Guyana, H.E. Glynne N. Michelo; U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency, Nicole D. Theriot; former Ambassador of China to Guyana, Her Excellency, Guo Haiyan; High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency Gale Miller Garnett, and High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago to Guyana, His Excellency Conrad Enill. These meetings saw discussions on increasing bilateral trade, the removal of trade barriers and partnering for capacity-building for local companies.
Similar discussions were held with a number of international organisations and business support organisations, as well as companies. We met with the Jamaica Promotions Corporation, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank to discuss matters of trade and business development. We also engaged Mr. Russell Zalizniak, Political and Economic Chief at the U.S Embassy, and Mr. Aaron Spencer, the Senior Development Specialist Advisor at the United States Agency for International Development/Eastern and Southern Caribbean (USAID/ESC) to discuss interventions in addressing Guyana’s labour shortage.
The Chamber’s advocacy work over the last year was extensive, particularly as we engaged the aforementioned organisations, and while this report only provides a cursory look into our work, I am pleased to provide an overview of some of the areas of advocacy that the GCCI engaged in.
LOCAL CONTENT
The GCCI has undoubtedly been the catalyst for the introduction of Local Content legislation in Guyana. Our strong advocacy efforts led to the establishment of the Local Content Act. However, our work did not end there. The Chamber continued to engage the government on the overdue updates to the Local Content Schedule. As Guyanese continue to develop their capacity and gain meaningful experience within the oil and gas industry, it is crucial that more opportunities be opened for our people.
The GCCI, cognisant of the need for continuous capacity-building included this as a critical aspect of our work plan. Not only did the Chamber cater to the need for information on opportunities in the sector and requirements to access these opportunities, but we placed capacity-building as it relates to compliance on the front burner. Many of you would have attended supplier forums with Saipem and MODEC. Some of you would have attended the ‘Introduction to Procurement’ workshop that was opened to members through a collaboration with the Centre for Local Business Development; and many of you would have accessed crucial workshops with agencies such as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, the Guyana Revenue Authority, the National Insurance Scheme, and the Ministry of Labour to name a few. The Chamber continued its engagement with the Local Content Secretariat in order to ensure that the systems we so dedicatedly lobbied for were respected—and that loopholes such as fronting are not used to circumvent our laws.
All of these events and activities were undertaken with one goal in mind—to ensure that our members are not only able to access the low-hanging fruit in the industry, but also to create stepping-stones to access more opportunities by bridging the gaps that exist in your capacity.
As I reflect on the strides made in local content utilisation and capacity-building, I am reminded of the critics and opponents of local content legislation–those who posited that having a local content law would be a deterrent to foreign investment. On the contrary, Guyana continues to see increasing investment interest–however, the ultimate obstacles to both local and foreign investment are our financial sector and local taxation framework. I refer to the high corporate tax rate, in conjunction with Value Added Tax, and the taxes on vehicle importation which uses a compound tax system–one in which we bear the cost, insurance and freight along with extremely high import duty, excise and VAT. These are not the only steeply taxed imports–we have experienced higher taxes on the communications sector and in the banking sector. If we truly wish to address the obstacles to investment, we need to address burning issues such as the lack of a double taxation treaty with major countries such as the United States.
I want to reiterate our position that Guyana’s financial sector is in dire need of modernisation.With our growing economy comes evolving needs. The private sector is the driver of economic development, and it is heavily reliant on the financial sector. We continuously face challenges due to the paper-based and bureaucratic systems, as well as challenges in access to finance—which includes access to capital as well as access to foreign exchange. I wish to echo our previous calls for the Bank of Guyana to urgently address these obstacles to economic advancement.
ACCESS TO FINANCE
Over the years, the GCCI has recognised that even as we build capacity, access to finance remains a barrier to the development and advancement of Guyanese businesses—particularly SMEs. We have consistently lobbied stakeholders in both the Government and private sector in this regard. You might recall that last year, the Chamber announced a partnership with the Jamaica Stock Exchange to develop a Junior Stock Market in Guyana. At this critical juncture of our nation’s development, where there is a keen focus on investment and diversification of the economy, the lack of proper financial markets, the underdeveloped stock market and the need for a development bank must be addressed.
I noted that the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry has heeded calls by introducing a programme that caters to the development of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises–GBTI Grow, a specialised financing programme that targets the development of MSMEs through the provision of flexible secured and unsecured loans at a competitive interest rate. It is initiatives such as these that foster an enabling business environment.
On the Government’s front, the GCCI is pleased with the amendment to the Financial Institutions Act that allows foreign financial institutions to set up a local office. In a fast-growing economy such as ours, access to capital is crucial and must be addressed frontally. Similarly, the Security Interests in Moveable Property Act which now allows for moveable assets such as equipment, vehicles, inventory, crops, livestock and intellectual property to be used as collateral for accessing credit is anticipated to be a catalyst for the development of enterprises in Guyana and a driver of economic growth.
Despite these strides, the country’s business landscape continues to be plagued by an interconnected issue—access to foreign currency. This challenge has seen businesses with the access to financing being unable to conduct business simply because of a shortage of foreign exchange—putting their supply chain and the sustainability of their operations at risk. We cannot continue to operate in this state of perpetual aloofness when it comes to this problem. The GCCI has engaged the Guyana Association of Bankers Incorporated and has been seeking engagements with the Ministry of Finance on this issue.
The problem exists and placatory statements by those with the authortity to intervene, statements that are not founded in data from the businesses that are being affected, are doing nothing to address this untenable situation. It was a problem when I entered office two years ago, and as I demit office, the problem remains on the table.
EASE OF DOING BUSINESS
In the same vein, we cannot continue to ignore the red tape involved in doing business in Guyana—whether it is archaic business practices using a paper-based system, bureaucratic processes and outdated mechanisms that frustrate doing business in Guyana—better must come if we are to ensure a thriving business landscape.
Earlier this year, the Chamber engaged the National Insurance Scheme following an outcry by our membership for improved efficiency. We are hopeful that these engagements will result in positive changes—the business community cannot be held hostage by inefficiency.
Still, the NIS is just a drop in the bucket. There is much more to be done and we continue to advocate for the digitalisation of processes in Guyana—whether it’s applying for a business name or compliance. Time lost to waiting in line to file a paper-based application is money lost.
Ease of business is not just limited to processes—it also extends to the production process. The Chamber eagerly awaits the operationalisation of the Gas-to-Energy project. Access to reliable and cheap energy remains a challenge, especially in an environment with such great manufacturing potential. In an economy that is leaning towards diversity, energy is a crucial factor, as such, we look forward to the reduction in the cost of electricity and the delivery of stable power.
And, when the manufacturing sector benefits from cheaper and reliable electricity, increasing its productivity potential, it must not be hindered in accessing markets by Non-Tariff Barriers. As it is, Guyanese manufacturers are operating on unequal footing in the region–we continue to allow the free flow of goods from other Caribbean states into the country while our products are being barred from entry in some countries for negligible reasons, stymieing our access to markets. I am once again expressing our dissatisfaction with this reality and reiterate calls for the establishment and enforcement of Common External Tariffs and Rules of Origin. We need to ensure our competitiveness by protecting and supporting domestic manufacturing. As a country, we cannot comfortably subscribe to the selective application of a free trade framework in the region in a manner where our businesses do not benefit.
Labour, too, remains an important topic in this discussion. Businesses have highlighted the challenges they experience in accessing the needed manpower to continue building this beautiful country we call home. The country’s development necessitates labour. As such, we continued calls for the establishment of national labour and migration policies as even though we must ensure that we have the labour needed to continue apace with our development, we must also protect our labour force–both local and migrant–from exploitation.
COMMITTEE WORK
Advocacy Committee
The Advocacy Committee played a crucial role in the aforementioned lobbying and engagements. The Committee held discourses with our members to understand the issues that affected not just their businesses but the citizenry at large. These challenges were then escalated to the Council and Executive Management Committee for the formulation and execution of interventions. Through this Committee, the Chamber also established the Legal Affairs Subcommittee, chaired by Councillor, Attorney-at-Law, Mrs. Priyanka Yussuf. This Committee provided the Chamber with a platform to better examine the laws and regulations that govern our operations so that members could remain informed.
Petroleum Committee
The Petroleum Committee persistently and dedicatedly executed its mandate through collaborative initiatives that saw members benefiting from continuous networking and capacity-building activities. The Committee facilitated a number of presentations with agencies such as the Guyana Power and Light, the Centre for Local Business Development, the Guyana Energy Agency, and the Central Housing and Planning Authority. Ministers, including Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat; Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Hon. Susan Rodrigues, and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Deodat Indar also engaged with members at the Chamber through the intervention of the Committee.
Visits to the Gas-to-Energy project site and the Guyana Shore Base Incorporated facility were also executed under the leadership of Chairperson, Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith.
Trade and Investment Committee
The Trade and Investment Committee actively pursued increased trade opportunities for Guyanese businesses as well as the removal of Non-Tariff Trade Barriers. Under the Chairmanship of Councillor, Mr. Devon Seeram, the Committee engaged in a number of information-sharing sessions as well as policy consultations. These included meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between Guyana and Belize on renewed and enhanced bilateral cooperation, and the joint meeting on the activation of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations Technical Working Groups.
The Trade and Investment Committee also facilitated awareness and information sessions with members through collaborations with the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association and the Guyana Revenue Authority, as well as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards and the Government Analyst - Food and Drug Department. The Committee also engaged the Department of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on trade policies, market access, Rules of Origin, and dispute resolution within trade agreements.
The GCCI and the International Centre for Trade Transparency Limited (ICTTM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide members of the Chamber with priority access to ICTTM’s ADAMftd software system. The ADAMftd software system is a revolutionary tool aimed at enhancing transparency and compliance in international trade. Access to this software will enhance the economic activity of Guyanese companies by ensuring their compliance with international trade rules and regulations, and assisting them in identifying new international markets.
Our efforts at supporting the development of partnerships were wide-ranging. The Chamber and the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) geared towards promoting the development of business relations, bilateral trade, and investment between the Dominican Republic and Guyana. We also engaged a number of foreign business delegations from the United Kingdom, Brazil, the United States, France, Mexico, and Finland. Members of the Chamber also travelled to Beijing, China, where they underwent training at the Academy for International Business Officials to improve their export and international business capabilities. The Chamber also sought to reinvigorate our relationship with London Chamber of Commerce and Industry to increase business opportunities for members.
In keeping with increasing information-sharing and contract opportunities with the oil and gas sector, the Chamber also met with stakeholders of the industry to advocate in the interest of local companies. Meetings were held with MODEC Guyana Incorporated, CenerTech and its sister company CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, and the Centre for Local Business Development. The Chamber also independently hosted and partnered with other organisations to execute events geared towards achieving these objectives. These events included the Caribbean Investment Forum, the second Annual Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference, and the 2024 Business Development Forum. In May 2024, the Chamber once again spearheaded Guyana’s participation in the Offshore Technology Conference, held in Houston, Texas, which saw members benefiting from valuable networking opportunities.
Finance Committee
Under the leadership of Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, the Committee remained committed to capacity-building and increasing members’ knowledge base in crucial areas. The Committee participated in a workshop on the implementation of Beneficial Ownership Transparency (BOT) Roadmap in Guyana, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Natural Resources through the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. The Committee also paved the way for the Chamber to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) to work together to promote the development of the profession, support educational initiatives and grow the pool of accountants in Guyana, among other initiatives.
Agriculture Committee
The Agriculture Committee also continued its dedicated work for the advancement of the agriculture sector. The Committee’s Capacity Building Workshop saw farmers across the country benefiting from training through a partnership with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC). Students of the Guyana School of Agriculture and farmers from communities in Anna Catherina, WCD; Mahaicony, ECD; Belle West, WBD; Canal Number One, WBD, and Anna Regina, Region Two benefitted from this initiative. Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards also successfully engaged WUSC for the development of a Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning and Training Centre, housed at the Chamber’s Secretariat. Works are currently underway to build out this state-of-the-art space for private sector development.
Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee
Led by Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, the Committee’s work plan saw collaborations with agencies such as the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority, the National Insurance Scheme, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, the Guyana Revenue Authority, and the Ministry of Labour to educate members on policies and regulations guiding their operations as relates to their employees.
The Committee also engaged the University of Guyana to access certificate training programmes for members and develop a human resource database for recruitment purposes. Under this committee, we also saw the establishment of the Health and Wellness Subcommittee, which was chaired by member, Dr. Dason McKenzie. This subcommittee focused on examining and addressing physical and mental health care within the workspace–which took into consideration one of our most important resources, our people.
Green Economy Committee
The Green Economy Committee continued to engage its members on key issues such as sustainability in their operations. In this vein, the Committee participated in the Green Walk hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency in observance of World Environment Day 2024 and hosted two in-person and online workshops on Environmental, Social, and Governance principles.
Construction and HSSE Committee
With the guidance of Chairperson, Ms. Savira Ramroop, this Committee undertook the task of engaging agencies such as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards and the Government Electrical Inspectorate on matters such as adherence to electrical codes, the development of elevator standards, and the need for enforcement of building and fire codes.
The Committee continued to urge for the implementation of the National Fire Protection Association codes and policies, while advocating for the monitoring and immediate removal of materials and equipment that do not confirm to the UL list of approved standards.
Membership and Diversity Committee
The Membership and Diversity Committee, led by Councillor Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, continued to onboard new members while also addressing key issues affecting the existing membership base. The Committee listened to challenges members faced and escalated these to the relevant supporting committees for intervention. In instances of conflicts between members, the Committee sought to have these mediated by members of Council. The Committee also spearheaded the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran Cancer Awareness Fundraiser which saw one million dollars being donated to the Guyana Cancer Institute.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee
Under Chairperson, Councillor Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran, this Committee facilitated a number of virtual networking sessions for members to meet and share information on their businesses as well as topical issues affecting their businesses. The Committee also met with the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to discuss collaborating on capacity-building initiatives and access to finance for members, and participated in the National Skills Audit.
Caricom Youth Ambassadors who were part of the Caricom Single Market and Economy Attachment Programme also benefited from mentorship from this Committee. The Committee also facilitated students from Camille’s Academy participating in the Teenternship Programme. This initiative allowed them the opportunities to shadow CEOs or General Managers in medium-sized businesses for one week.
Fundraising Committee
The Fundraising Committee of the Chamber started its year of activities with the Caricom Day Barbecue and Mixer in July, providing members of the Chamber the opportunity to network in an informal environment. This event outperformed the previous year in terms of income generation, and attendance.
The GCCI also held its inaugural Energy Luncheon in September, which saw the unveiling of the GCCI’s premier publication - the Business Guyana Magazine. The Magazine was officially launched one month later at the Jamaica Stock Exchange’s Regional Capital Markets Conference hosted at the Pegasus Hotel.
In November, the GCCI reintroduced the Business Development Forum, after not having executed it 2023. This event saw the Chamber partnering with numerous members of the private sector, including ExxonMobil Guyana. Small businesses were able to benefit from the vast information provided by industry leaders of the oil and gas sector on how to develop their businesses for the local energy sector.
To wrap up the year, the Chamber hosted its Annual Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner, which saw the attendance of hundreds of GCCI members, members of Government, and members of the diplomatic community. Overall for the year 2024, the Chamber executed all events successfully, with a surplus being made on all events. This synopsis of the Chamber’s work over the last year only summarises the efforts made. Time does not permit us to examine each individual meeting and intervention, as this would be a mammoth account. The work of the Chamber is continuous—it requires commitment, zeal and not just a love for the business community, but a love of country—after all, development of the sector equates to development of the economy, which then translates to the advancement of the country and its people.
So, as we conclude this 135th AGM, I humbly stand before you with immense gratitude and pride for the strides we have made together. Over the past year, we have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of our business community and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Our advocacy efforts have been relentless, addressing critical challenges such as access to finance, local content development, ease of doing business, and trade barriers. These initiatives reflect our shared vision of a thriving Guyanese economy—one that empowers businesses, creates opportunities, and uplifts our people. Together, we
have laid the foundation for transformative change, but the work is far from over.
As I demit office, I urge each of you to embrace the mantle of leadership within your respective sectors. The future of Guyana’s economy depends on our collective resolve to innovate, collaborate, and advocate for progress. Let us continue to push boundaries, challenge inefficiencies, and demand excellence in governance and service delivery. The challenges we face—whether in energy reliability, labour shortages, or foreign exchange access—are not insurmountable. They are opportunities for us to demonstrate our ingenuity and resilience.
Looking ahead beyond 2025, let us therefore commit ourselves to building a business environment that is inclusive, competitive, and sustainable. Let us champion policies that protect local industries while opening doors to international markets. And let us never lose sight of the human element—the workers, entrepreneurs, and communities who are the backbone of our economy.
The GCCI has been a beacon of hope and progress for well over a century. As we step into the future, let us carry forward this legacy with renewed vigor. Together, we WILL ensure that Guyana’s prosperity is not just a promise but a reality for all.
Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your dedication. It has been my sincere honour to serve as your president. May we continue to rise together—stronger, united, and determined to shape a brighter tomorrow.
Notice is hereby given that the 135th Annual General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) will be held on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Salon C at 15:00 hours for the following purposes:
Agenda
1. Reading of the Notice convening the Meeting
2. Presentation of the President’s 2024 Report
3. Auditor’s Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December, 2024.
4. Resolutions
5. Appointment of an Auditor
6. Consideration of any business or motion as may properly come before the Meeting.
7. Election of the 2025/2026 Council
All members are reminded to be in good financial standing with the Chamber.
BY ORDER OF THE COUNCIL
Ahreefa Bacchus Proper Officer
ALL MAIL: 156 Waterloo Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, Guyana, South America
Telephone: (592)226-3519/227-6441 Email: gccicommerce2009@gmail.com Serving Guyana through Commerce and Industry
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Proceedings of the 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM)
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE GEORGETOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
March 27, 2024
Opening Session
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 3:15 p.m. via the Zoom digital platform. During the Opening Session, Ms. Ambika Ramraj, the Chamber’s Operations Coordinato r, delivered opening remarks and introduced the Guest Speaker, Ms Lorena Solorzano Salazar, Guyana’s IDB Group Country Representative who delivered an address on “Guyana’s Economic Outlook – Debt, Private Sector Development, and Access to Finance.”
Business Session
The Proper Officer, Mr. Rene Daniels, conducted the business session. There was the observation of a moment of silence in honour the late Mrs. Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran, who was a Councillor and the Vice-Chairperson of the GCCI’s Membership & Diversity Committee up to the time of her passing on February 23, 2024.
Mr. Daniels then moved to the first item on the agenda, the Reading of the Notice Convening the Meeting.
1. Reading of the Notice Convening the Meeting
The Secretary, Mrs. Kathy Smith, moved to the first item on the agenda, the Reading of the Notice to convene the meeting.
2. Presentation of the President's 2023/2024 Report
The Proper Officer, Mr. Rene Daniels, moved to the second item on the agenda, the Presentation of the President's 2023/2024 Report.
‘The President's 2023/2024 Report’ was read by the outgoing President, Mr. Kester Hutson.
For the purpose of record keeping, the Proper Officer acknowledged those present, they were Mr. Kester Hutson, Mr. Richard Rambarran, Mrs. Kathy Smith, Mr. Shaam Outar, Mr. Devon Seeram and Mr. Sean Ramrattan.
The Proper Officer called for a motion for the President’s Report to be accepted. The motion was moved by Mr. Shaam Outar and seconded by Mr. Sean Ramrattan.
Mr. Daniels moved to the third item on the agenda, the presentation of the Auditor's Report and Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.
“Serving Guyana through Commerce and Industry since 1889” 156 Waterloo Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, Guyana P.O. Box: 10110 Tel: (592) 225-5846/227-6441/226-3519 georgetownchamber1889@gmail.com , gccicommerce2009@gmail.com
Proceedings of the First Statutory Council Meeting 2024-2025
MEETINGS & EVENTS
GCCI members attend DR Embassy B2B meetingMarch 4, 2024
Several members from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Monday, March 4, attended a Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting with a business delegation from the Dominican Republic (DR) which was held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre. The event was hosted by the Embassy of the Dominican Republic.
Those present from the GCCI included the President, Mr. Kester Hutson and Secretary, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Council member, Shaam Outar. DR Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Erne to Pereyra attended the meeting and offered brief remarks at the opening of the event. Also present from the DR Embassy were Commercial Council, Mr. Alexander Sarante, and First Secretary, Mr. Joel Bernabel.
GCCI meets with Chinese Embassy to discuss potential participation of Guyanese businesses at China’s Canton Fair - March 5, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, on Wednesday, March 5, met with Counselor Li Hanqing of the Chinese Embassy to discuss the potential of the Chamber and interested members participating at the 135th China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, which begins on April 15, 2024.
The two sides also took the opportunity to discuss improved trade relations between Guyana and China. Mr Hanqing noted China’s interest in bringing a number of electric vehicles (EV) to Guyana, and working on requisite infrastructure for these vehicles.
GCCI meets with Barbadian shipping company - March 6, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, on Wednesday, March 6, met with senior representatives from trade and shipping company,Barbados Port Inc., to discuss opportunities for increased trans-shipment and trade between Guyana and Barbados.
Held at the GCCI Waterloo Office, the meeting was attended by Divisional Manager, Operations, Mr. Ian Stewart and Divisional Manager Business Development & Strategy, Ms. Jane Brome.
GCCI represented at Annual Police Officers’ Conference - March 7, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was represented by Council Member, Mr. Rayad Boyce, at the opening ceremony of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference, which was held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex in Eve Leary, Georgetown.
GCCI meets with Caribbean Export Development Agency senior officals - March 7, 2024
Executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Thursday, March 7, met with senior officials from the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA) at the Chamber’s Waterloo Street office to discuss the Chamber’s participation and collaboration in the third annual Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF), which was scheduled to be held in Guyana from July 10 - 12 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
GCCI attends opening of second Annual WILES event at Police Training Centre - March 11, 2024
Several executives and council members of the Georgetown Chamber and Commerce and Industry (GCCI), including President, Mr. Kester Hutson, and Secretary, Mrs. Kathy Smith, attended the opening ceremony of the 2nd Annual Women in Law Enforcement Summit (WILES), which was held on Monday, March 11, 2024, at the Police Training Centre on Camp Road.
WILES is held as a collaboration between the GCCI, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce & Industry Guyana (WCCIG), and the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Mrs. Smith delivered remarks at the event on behalf of the GCCI, discussing opportunities for women in business.
GCCI Agri Committee collaborates with stakeholders to host Agri Workshop in Region Three - March 12, 2024
The Agriculture Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Tuesday, March 12, collaborated with several stakeholders for the hosting of another agriculture capacity building workshop in Parika, Region Three.
The Workshop is among a series of workshops that are part of an “Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop” programme which first began in 2022. The March 12 workshop featured a presentation on “Understanding the Role of Nutrients in Agriculture” by GCCI Agriculture Committee Chairman, Mr. Brian Edwards; and GCCI Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee Vice Chairperson, Ms. Natasha Waddle presented on “Farming As A Business”.
GCCI meets with oil and gas consulting firm as company looks to set up local operations
- March 14, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, on Thursday, March 14, 2024, met with senior officials from Brazilian-based oil and gas consulting firm, Diretriz Solutions at the GCCI Waterloo Street Office.
Currently operating in four countries, the company is interested in establishing operations in Guyana. Present from Diretriz Solutions were Operations Manager, Mr. Michel Cardaretti, and Guyana Delegate for Global Chamber of Business Leaders, Mr. Suresh Ramkissoon.
GCCI meets with Chamber of Commerce and Production of San Pedro de Macoris
- March 21, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, on Thursday, March 21, attended a meeting with senior officials from the Chamber of Commerce and Production of San Pedro de Macoris (CCPSPM), where an invitation was extended for the GCCI to visit the Dominican Republic city of San Pedro de Macoris and explore collaborative business opportunities.
The meeting was facilitated by the Embassy of the Dominican Republic and held at the Embassy’s Offices at the Pegasus Corporate Suites. From San Pedro de Macoris those in attendance included Former Chamber President, Mr. Ramon Leonardo, Chamber Member and President of Global Controls, Mr. Angelo Tejeda, and General Manager of Rafa PC, Mr. Raymundo Ortiz.
GCCI engages
UK Trade Mission
- March 24, 2024
Senior Vice President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce (GCCI), Mr. Richard Rambarran, on Thursday, March 21, 2024, highlighted that strategic partnerships with local firms often contributes to smoother integration for foreign enterprises, and efficient navigation of the local business landscape, whereas foreign businesses operating independently could find themselves experiencing significant and costly logistical hurdles.
Mr. Rambarran made this point as he delivered a brief presentation at the opening of a business to business (B2B) session between Guyanese businesses and the collection of businesses that are part of a trade delegation from the UK led by the Energy Industries Council (EIC) and Aberdeen International Associates (AIA). A total of sixteen delegates were part of the foreign contingent which was in Guyana from March 18 – 22, 2024. Several members of the GCCI participated in the B2B session, which was held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
GCCI elects a new EMC and Coucil for 2024/2025 - April 3, 2024
A new Executive Management Committee (EMC) of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was elected on April 3, 2024, with Mr. Kester Hutson being re-elected as President of the Chamber.
The elected EMC comprises a President, Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Mrs. Kathy Smith was elected as the Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar returned as the Junior Vice President, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George was elected as the new Secretary, and Mr. Brian Edwards was elected as the new Treasurer.
Additionally, the Immediate Past President of the GCCI is given the opportunity to serve as an Ex-Officio member of the EMC, as such, Mr. Timothy Tucker was elected to serve in this position on the EMC. Former Senior Vice President, Mr. Richard Rambarran was also appointed to the EMC as an Ex-Officio member. The new EMC was elected at the first Statutory Council meeting of the newly elected 21 member GCCI Council. The new GCCI Council was elected at the GCCI’s 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which was held virtually on March 27, 2024.
GCCI members attends B2B with CNOOC sister company - April 17, 2024
GCCI meets with Travel Agents Association - April 15, 2024
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President, Mr. KesterHutson, and Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George on Monday, April 15, met with executives of the recently constituted Guyana Association of Travel Agents (GATA) at the GCCI Waterloo Street Office.
The meeting was attended by the Association’s President, Ms. Adrina Singh, a Certified Travel and Tourism Consultant, and Vice President, Ms. Luana Falconer, from Frandec Travel.
The meeting was requested by the GATA which is currently garnering support for critical issues regarding airline operations in Guyana and to ensure that the interests and concerns of travel agencies are considered and addressed.
Several members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Wednesday, April 17, attended a meeting with a delegation from CNOOC Energy Technology & Services Limited (CenerTech), a sister company to CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL), which holds a 25% stake in Guyana’s Stabroek Oil Block.
The meeting was held at CNOOC’s High Street Office, and saw a presentation by CenerTech’s Global Marketing Manager, Mr. Lu Jianming and other high-ranking officers from the Technical Services, Technical Equipment, and Safety and Environmental divisions of the company.
GCCI facilitates energy supply discussion forum with membership and GPL Head, Kesh Nandall - April 22, 2024
The Petroleum Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Monday, April 22, held an insightful discussion on Guyana’s Energy Supply which featured an interactive discussion with Head of the Executive Management Committee of Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Mr. Kesh Nandlall and other officials from the power company.
The meeting was opened to the general membership of the Chamber, and was hosted to give the GCCI members an opportunity to learn more about GPL’s plans for future given how the frequent power outages have been affecting the private sector’s ability to operate efficiently and at maximum capacity.
GCCI meets with DR distribution company - April 26, 2024
GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson and Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, on Friday April 26, met with Mr. Fernando Gruning Guerrero, CEO of Almacenes Ranchera, a trade company from the Dominican Republic.
Mr. Guerrero is interested in connecting with a number of local companies with the goal of becoming a distributor to Guyana.
GCCI President meets with Business Mission from the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce - April 26, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Kester Hutson, on Thursday, April 26, emphasized the need for respect for Guyana’s local content legislation, and the importance of bilateral collaboration and promoting sustainable development when he delivered remarks at the Opening Ceremony of a Business Mission from the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
Mr. Hutson attended the event alongside Chairman of the GCCI Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram. The event was held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, and saw several businesses from the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce in attendance.
GCCI participates in OSH Walk - April 28, 2024
Several GCCI Executives and Council members participated in the Occupational Safety and Health Walk organized by the Ministry of Labour on April 28. In Guyana April is celebrated as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Month. The Occupational Safety and Health Walk is a significant event aimed at promoting awareness and fostering a culture of safety within the workplace.
GCCI meets with IOM and ILO representatives - April 30, 2024
Executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCi) on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, met with International Organisation on Migration Regional Coordinator for the Caribbean, Mr. Patrice Quesada, and Deputy Director of the International Labour Organisation, Mr. Lars Johansen, to discuss the identification of possible areas for collaboration.
The meeting was held at the GCCI Waterloo Street Office. The GCCI was represented by Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards and ExOfficio member, Mr. Richard Rambarran. The two sides shared updates on IOM Guyana and ILO’s current work and planned projects and activities in the area of Labour Migration.
GCCI opens booth at OTC - May 6, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Monday, May 6, held a ceremonial ribbon cutting and officially opened its booth at the esteemed Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), being held at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. The GCCI led the Guyana delegation to the global annual event which ran from May 6 - 9.
Delivering remarks at the opening ceremony, GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson, encouraged participants to capitalise on the vast opportunities that the Conference presents for them to network, get exposure, and to learn as much as possible about what is happening outside of Guyana.
Visits Partnership Tower - May 6, 2024
The
at the OTC on Monday, May 6, 2024, visited Partnership Tower.
During the visit an address on ‘Houston Energy Overview’ was presented by Senior Director of the Greater Houston partnership, Ms. Sara Malik, while President and CEO of Center for Houston’s Future, Mr. Brett Perlman spoke on ‘Accelerating the Development of a Texas and Gulf Coast Clean Hydrogen Ecosystem’.
Guyanese Delegation
Guyanese Delegation
GCCI Executives meet with Houston Chief of Police - May 6, 2024
GCCI Executives on Monday, May 6, met with Chief of Police of Houston, Mr. Troy Finner.
The GCCI executives are part of the Guyanese Delegation currently attending the Offshore Technology Conference being held at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. The GCCI is leading the Guyanese Delegation at the global annual event, which will be running from May 6 - 9. The GCCI booth is located at 4424 Hall A.
GCCI Delegation attends Guyana Night - May 6, 2024
The Guyanese Delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, on Monday, May 6, 2024, attended the Guyana Night Reception hosted by Guyana’s Honorary Consul General of the Southwest United States, the Honorable Lutfi Hassan.
The GCCI led the Guyanese Delegation at the OTC 2024.
GCCI meets with MODEC - May 6, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Monday, May 6, 2024 met with MODEC, a leading provider of floating solutions for the offshore oil and gas industry, at the GCCI Booth at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) currently ongoing in Houston., Texas.
Also present at the meeting was Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, the Honourable Deodat Indar. The GCCI is leading the Guyanese Delegation at the OTC, which will be running from May 6 - 9. The GCCI booth is located at 4424 Hall A.
The Guyanese Delegation to the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas on Tuesday,May 7,2024, participated in a tour of the Lindsayca/CH4 (LNDCH4) Houston facility. Representatives of the US Embassy in Guyana were also present for the tour. GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson, spoke about private sector’s support for the Gas-to-Energy Project, and optimism that LNDCH4 presence in Guyana will be fruitful and collaborative.
GCCI participates in Beneficial Ownership Transparency Workshop - May 7, 2024
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, reresented the Chamber at a Workshop on the Implementation of Beneficial Ownership Transparency (BOT) Roadmap in Guyana, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Natural Resources through the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI).
GCCI Agri committee continues Agri Workshop in Region Three - May 6, 2024
The Agriculture Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with several stakeholders on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, continued the hosting of Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop with a session in Anna Catherina on the West Coast Demerara.
Over 40 participants took part in the workshop, which was led by Chairman of the GCCI Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards.
GCCI
hosts Around the World Series Panel - May 8, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, delivered remarks on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the ‘Around the World Series Panel’ Discussion at the Offshore Technology Conference 2024 in Houston, Texas.
The session was held under the theme ‘Guyana’s Emergence as a Regional Energy Powerhouse and its Expansion into the Global Oil Marker’, and saw Mr. Hutson underscoring that Guyana’s expansion into the global oil market represents a historic opportunity for the nation to achieve prosperity, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
OTC 2024: Guyana is a regional powerhouse eyeing the world stage - May 10, 2024 – World Oil
Discussions of Guyana’s future as a regional— and global—powerhouse were at center stage in a discussion panel at OTC 2024. Featured speakers included Kester Hutson and Richard Rambarran of the Georgetown (Guyana) Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Alistair Routledge of ExxonMobil Guyana; and Deodat Indar and Peter Ramsaroop—Minister within Guyana’s Natural Resources Ministry and the head of the Guyana Office of Investment, respectively. From the private sector to government involvement, the panel dove into the optic of Guyana’s “outsized role” to play in the global oil and gas industry, despite the country’s small geographic size...
GCCI raises concerns about Non-tariff barriers and respect for local contect legislation in meeting with TT High CommissionerMay 14, 2024
Executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Tuesday, May 14, met with Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency Conrad Enill, where discussions included the private sector longstanding concerns about impediments posed by Trinidad’s non-tariff barriers, as well as the need for respect for, and compliance with, Guyana’s local content legislation by Trinidadian companies.
The Chamber was represented at the meeting by GCCI President, Mr. Kester Hutson and Mr. Richard Rambarran. Mr. Hudson underscored that with Guyana, depending on Trinidad as a transshipment point compounds the effects of Trinidad’s non-tariff barriers.
GCCI meets with ExxonMobil Guyana team - May 29, 2024
On May 29, a team from ExxonMobil Guyana visited the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and met with several members of the Executive Committee to discuss areas for collaboration.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards engaged ExxonMobil Guyana’s Production Manager, Mr. Huzefa Ali and Government Relations Advisor, Ms. Teijvarti Persaud on the Chamber’s history, role, objectives and achievements.
The GCCI iterated its focus on strategic collaboration, and the push for sustainability, equity and continuity among members, while also lobbying for open dialogue on relevant matters such as local content development and payment timelines.
GCCI and CBD discuss capacity-building initiatives for agri-sector - May 29, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and representatives of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) met on May 29 to discuss the pursuit of several capacity-building initiatives that will benefit Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) in Guyana, with special focus on the agriculture sector—particularly small-scale farmers.
In attendance at the meeting were the CDB’s Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (MSME) Consultant, Ms. Allyson Francis and Senior Operations Officer, Mr. Michel Thomas, and a team from the GCCI that included Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Treasurer and Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards and Trade and Investment Consultant, Ms. Jessica Campbell.
Discussions revolved around the ‘Improving Quality Standards of Agro-Processors through Training’ Project, and expanding current initiatives that are geared towards capacitybuilding such as funding the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification for agro-processors.
GCCI and the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana sign MoU for economic coopertion and promoting bilateral business relations - June 3, 2024
On June 3, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana (DRCham Guyana) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) geared towards promoting the development of business relations, bilateral trade, and investment between the Dominican Republic and Guyana.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson and President of DRCham Guyana, Mr. Miguel Angel Gonzalez Gottlieb signed the agreement at the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana, Kingston, Georgetown. The basis of the MoU is a shared desire for the diversification of commercial exchanges and economic cooperation on a mutually advantageous basis between the members of the respective chambers.
GCCI hosts Agriculture capacity-building workshop in Belle West, WBD - June 4, 2024
On June 4, GCCI’s Agriculture Committee, chaired by Mr. Brian Edwards, organised an Agriculture Capacity-building Workshop at the Belle West Multicomplex, West Bank Demerara.
This initiative saw collaboration with stakeholders like the World University Service of Canada, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, the New Guyana Marketing Corporation, and the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board, who provided insights on market access, good agricultural practices, and climate-smart innovations.
GCCI and IPED discussc ollaboration for access to finance and capacity-building for members - June 6, 2024
On June 6, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to discuss collaborating on capacity-building initiatives and access to finance for members.
Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mrs. Evie Kanhai-Gurcharan and Secretary of the GCCI, Ms. Melisa George met with IPED’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jagdesh Haripershad and Business Development/ Marketing Manager, Mr. Robert Williams.
GCCI and Guyana Securities/Council discuss collaboration for access to capital markets for members - June 12, 2024
The Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met with the Guyana Securities Council (GSC) on June 12 to discuss collaborating in the area of access to capital markets for members’ benefit.
President of GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards met with Chief Executive Officer of GSC, Ms. Cheryl Ibbott, and Compliance Officer, Attorney-at-law Alanna Lall.
GCCI and UN continue collaboration on achieving Sustainable Development Goals - June 12, 2024
On June 12, the Executive Management Committee of the GCCI met with a team from the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator’s Office to discuss the implementation of a Joint Declaration of Intent signed in 2023 by the GCCI and the UN’s Office of the Resident Coordinator, for cooperation in meeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Guyana.
President of GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Councillor and Ex-Officio Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards met with UN Residen Coordinator, Ms. Yesim Oruc; Head of the Resident Coordinator’s Office, Mr. William Evans; Communications Officer of the Resident Coordinator’s Office, Mrs. Colette Hytmiah-Singh; Programme Analyst for Poverty and Governance of the United Nations Development Programme, Ms. Nadira Balram; Communications Associate and Business Portfolio Lead of UNICEF Guyana/ Suriname, Mr. Frank Robinson, and Planning and Coordination Specialist of UN Women, Ms. Akilah Dorris.
GCCI participates in ongoing National Skills Audit - June 13, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mrs. Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran on June 13, Mrs. Kanhai-Gurchuran participated in the National Skills Audit. She joined a number of stakeholders including the Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Natural Resou ces, the Board of Industrial Training, and the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce at the Guyana Tourism Authority’s Conference Room where the questions on the data-gathering tool were scrutinised.
Mrs. Kanhai-Gurchuran highlighted the importance of studying the impact of culture on the labour force, particularly as it relates to women, and as such she recommended that the inquiries provide room for this area to be probed.
GCCI presents recommendations for monetisation of Guyana’s natural gas - June 13, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged SP Global, the company that was contracted by the Government of Guyana to craft the country’s Gas Monetisation Strategy.
Chairperson of the GCCI’s Green Economy Committee and Councillor, Mr. Delmar Walcott met with the team from SP Global at the Ministry of Natural Resources on June 13. During the meeting, Mr. Walcott presented several suggestions on the utilisation of the country’s natural gas that will be transported onshore via a pipeline at Wales, West Bank Demerara, including the establishment of a local liquefaction plant for the gas to be containerised and distributed around Guyana, particularly for the benefit of the manufacturing sector.
GCCI presents recommendations for monetisation of Guyana’s natural gas - June 13, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson on June 18, urged members of the private sector to utilise their influence and public platforms to combat hate speech and foster inclusivity.
Mr. Hutson was at the time addressing the launch of the ‘National Campaign on Hate Speech’ at the National Library, Georgetown. The campaign launch coincided with the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, and is a collaborative effort between the United Nations (UN) and the Ethnic Relations Commission.
GCCI and GPF Traffic Department discuss collaborative initiatives to address road safety
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department will be collaborating to address issues surrounding road safety and the reduction of motor vehicle accidents. - June 18, 2024
On June 18, President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Chairperson of the Security and Governance Committee, Mr. Paul Archer, and Committee Members Ms. Shaleeza Shaw, Mr. Sean Kirkpatrick, Mr. Sean Ramrattan, Mr. Tyrone Williams and Mr. Rayad Boyce met with Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, Sergeant Richard Trotz and Sergeant Nicholas Higgins.
GCCI supports Traffic Department in capacity-building session for stakeholders - June 22, 2024
In keeping with its core values of commitment and collaboration, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on June 22, engaged the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department and National Road Safety Coordinator during the monthly stakeholder meeting at the Officer’s Training Center, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
The engagement saw court prosecutors, inspectors, traffic officers, and certifying officers benefiting from capacity-building on traffic education and enforcement. Discussions were led by Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent, Mahendra Singh and Deputy Traffic Chief, Superintendent Shellon Daniels. GCCI Security and Governance Committee Chairperson, Mr. Paul Archer, and Committee Members Ms. Shaleeza Shaw and Mr. Charles Williams were in attendance.
GCCI and SASOD collaborate for Pride Month Mixer - June 28, 2024
On June 28, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) partnered with the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) for the hosting of the second annual Pride Month Mixer.
The event was coordinated by the Chamber’s Membership and Diversity Committee and hosted at ‘Fresh’ restaurant. Members of the LGBTQ community were able to meet and interact with Councillors of the GCCI, and they were provided the opportunity to have their businesses become members of the Chamber.
GCCI engages BRAVA on business solutions - July 3, 2024
On July 3, President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson and Members of the Executive Committee, Mr. Richard Rambarran and Mr. Brian Edwards, met with a team from Brava—formerly GTT Business Solutions—led by Brava Guyana Sales Director, Mr. Hilton Wong.
Discussions centered on business solutions being offered by the company that can positively impact the local business landscape, including Medium and Small Enterprises. The Brava Guyana team introduced a catalogue of products and services that can support productivity and efficiency, and the GCCI team expressed interest in exploring these solutions for the benefit of members, particularly small businesses.
GCCI pays courtesy visit to China’s Ambassador to Guyana - July 5, 2024
With the aim of building closer relations between the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Guyana and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), a delegation from the Chamber on July 5, paid a courtesy call on Her Excellency, Ambassador Guo Haiyan.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; and Councillors Mr. Richard Rambarran and Mr. Devon Seeram engaged the Ambassador and her team on developing a better platform for economic relations. The GCCI team acknowledged the tangible contributions by Chinese companies to Guyana, particularly as it relates to infrastructural development. Noting the importance of engagement, the GCCI Executives spoke on the need to further collaborate with the Chinese Embassy with the aim of increasing trade and investment.
GCCI pays courtesy visit to High Commissioner of Belize - July 8, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 8, paid a courtesy call on the High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency, Gale Miller Garnett.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran engaged the High Commissioner on several areas, including room for collaborating through a Trade Facilitation Council and the removal of Non-Tariff Barriers to trade in the Caricom region.
GCCI advocates local content with visiting French business delegation - July 9, 2024
Encouraging partnerships with local businesses, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) today, July 9 met with a delegation of over 14 French businesses that are currently in Guyana scoping out potential investment opportunities.
These companies operate in a wide range of sectors and services including aerospace technology, helicopter manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, metal structure manufacturing, ICT, construction, energy management, electronics, transportation, and pharmaceuticals.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran engaged the companies on the benefits of partnering with local companies for investment.
GCCI and ACCA sign MoU for development of accountancy profession- July 9, 2024
On July 9, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the GCCI and ACCA working together to promote the development of the profession, support educational initiatives and grow the pool of accountants in Guyana, among other initiatives. The agreement also seeks to advocate for policies that promote a favourable business environment and address challenges facing the two entities, while utilising their joint networks to propel the developmental agenda of MoU.
The MoU was signed by Junior Vice President of the GCCI and Chairman of the Finance Committee, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Director for ACCA’s Europe, Eurasia, the Americas, and the Middle East (EEMA) region, Mrs. Magda Krupa-Hernandez.
SVP Kathy Smith montors women in business at AccelerateHER bootcamp - July 6&7, 2024
In keeping with the objective of developing entrepreneurship in Guyana while supporting women-led businesses, Senior Vice President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Kathy Smith supported the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) AccelerateHer 2024 Programme as a mentor.
The two-day event saw Mrs. Smith and other mentors providing professional mentoring to Guyanese women entrepreneurs that was aimed at growing their businesses. Thirty women benefited from the programme., which featured tailored workshops, access to one-on-one business advisory services, mentoring, pitch development, and a strong and supportive peer-learning environment.
GCCI engages Caricom Youth Ambassadors on entrepreneurship - July 11, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 22, 2024 engaged the Caricom Youth Ambassadors who are part of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) Attachment Programme.
The Ambassadors were on an official visit to Guyana, and Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mrs. Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran delivered a presentation to the delegation on entrepreneurship.
GCCI participates in U.S. - Guyana Trade and Investment Roundtable - July 11, 2024
On July 11, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) joined several private sector organisations and government agencies for an engagement with a team from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on advancing trade and investment opportunities between Guyana and the U.S.
This engagement was geared towards identifying challenges to trade and investment as well as understanding the available opportunities and resources. President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson, and Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith participated in the discourse, which provided an opportunity to discuss problemsolving ideas on coordinated and concerted action toward advancing bilateral trade between the two nations.
GCCI engages with stakeholders on enhancing relations with Belize - July 15, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 15 engaged in a meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between Guyana and Belize on renewed and enhanced bilateral cooperation.
Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Councillor and Chairman of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram represented the Chamber at the meeting, which sought to examine areas for cooperation between the two countries in relation to agriculture and food security, trade and investment, tourism, education, energy security, infrastructure, technology, and climate change.
GCCI participates in the Caribbean Investment Forum - July 10-12, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) that was held from July 10-12, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
During the three-day event, which featured both a conference, as well as an investment village and exposition, the Chamber engaged a number of Caribbean businesses on navigating Guyana’s business environment as well as the investment opportunities in the country.
Local businesses were also apprised of the benefits of membership and the process to join the GCCI.
GCCI partners with stakeholders for capacitybuilding session at GSA - July 16, 2024
On July 16, the GCCI once again partnered with the World University Service of Canada and several other stakeholders to empower students of the Guyana School of Agriculture and farmers with information and skills geared towards improving their knowledge, particularly in the business arena.
Chaired by Councillor and Chairman of the GCCI’s Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards, the event saw over 50 participants and included remarks from Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Richard Blair, as well as presentations from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, the Guyana Food Safety Authority, the New Guyana Marketing Corporation, the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board, the Small Business Bureau, and the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI).
GCCI collaborates with CLBD for Procurement workshop - July 18, 2024
On July 18 and 19, 2024, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) collaborated with the Centre for Local Business Development to host a two-day Procurement Training Workshop for members.
GCCI executives pay courtesy visit to U.S. Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot - July 18, 2024
The Executive Management Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 18 paid a courtesy visit to U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot during which a number of issues related to bilateral trade and investment, and collaborating in the areas of capacity-building opportunities and trade mission were discussed.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the U.S Ambassador, as well as the Political and Economic Chief, Mr. Russel Zalizniak; Senior Commercial Officer for Guyana, Mr. Daniel Gaines; Commercial Specialist, Ms. Amanda Edmondson, and Commercial Assistant and Budget Analyst, Ms. Tocoma Alexis.
GCCI participates in activation of NACEN Technical Working Groups - July 18, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 18 participated in a joint meeting on the activation of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN) Technical Working Groups (TWGs). Councillor and Chairperson of the GCCI’s Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram, and Councillor and Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards represented the Chamber at the meeting which was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
GCCI supports Police crackdown on illegal sirens and emergency lights - July 20, 2024 - Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Friday said that it firmly supports the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) campaign against the use of illegal sirens and emergency lights by unauthroised persons.
In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce said it supports the “campaign launched by Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh against the use of illegal sirens and emergency lights by unauthorised persons.
GCCI and Protected Areas Trust discuss collaboration for enhancement of protected areas - July 30, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on July 30 engaged the Protected Areas Trust, with discussions centring on collaborating for increased public awareness that is ultimately geared towards supporting the enhancement of protected areas.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and Chairman of the Green Economy Committee, Mr. Delmar Walcott met with Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Trust, Mrs. Melanie McTurk, and Executive Director, Ms. Oleta Williams at the GCCI’s Secretariat.
GCCI participates in U.S. - Guyana Trade and Investment Roundtable - July 11, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) Annual Barbeque and Mixer was held on July 21, 2024, at Palm Court, and saw members networking while supporting the fundraising initiative.
GCCI discuss illegal vending and garbage challenges in Georgetown with M&CC - July 31, 2024
On July 31, in response to a request from the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and ndustry (GCCI) engaged city officials on issues of illegal vending and the garbage disposal challenges plaguing the city.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker, and Councillors, Mr. Keon Howard, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, and Mrs. Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran met with Mayor Alfred Mentore, Town Clerk, Ms. Candace Nelson, and City Councillors Mr. Jai Narine Singh, Mr. Gregory Fraser, Mr. Steven Jacobs, Mr. Clayton Hinds, and Mr. Kyle Solomon, as well as Director of the Solid Waste Department, Mr. Walter Narine.
GCCI and partners take capacity-building programme to Little Biaboo- July 31, 2024
On July 31, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and its partners took the agriculture capacity-building programme to Little Biaboo, Mahaica River where over 50 persons benefited from the session and described it as the largest stakeholder collaboration to grace the community.
GCCI supporting capacitt-building of Upper Mahaica River Farmer’s Development Group - July 31, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) partnered with the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by World University Service of Canada for the reinvigoration of the Upper Mahaica River Farmer’s Development Group through capacitybuilding. On July 31, this initiative was commemorated with a ceremonial rededication of a new sign on the building that houses the group at Little Biaboo, Mahaica. Chairman of the GCCI’s Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards at the event stated that the event represents the growth, progress, and future potential of the group.
GCCI and other stakeholders updated by GWI on plans to install new transmission lines in city - August 9, 2024
On August 9, 2024, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson attended a meeting hosted by Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to inform stakeholders of plans to install new water transmission main lines in the city in two weeks. The meeting was chaired by Chief Executive Officer of GWI, Mr. Shaik Baksh and provided a basic overview of the plan to update the main lines along Avenue of the Republic and High Street.
GCCI supports National Road Safety Forum - August 2, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on August 2, supported the launch of the Annual National Stakeholders Road Safety Forum.
Chairman of the GCCI Security and Governance Committee Chairperson, Mr. Paul Archer, and Vice Chairperson of the Membership and Diversity Committee, Mr. Theon Alleyne attended the event, which was held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown. The forum addressed the commitment and future plans of key stakeholders and partners on actions undertaken to reduce road fatalities and accidents by 50 percent.
GCCI and other stakeholders updated by GWI on plans to install new transmission lines in city - August 14, 2024
On August 14, the Chamber participated in a Multistakeholder Forum on Sustaining Women, Youth, and Marginalised Male Farmers’ Participation in Agricultural Markets, that was hosted as part of the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by World University Service of Canada.
Chairperson of the GCCI Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Vice Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Ms. Natasha Waddle participated in the Forum that was held at the Grand Coastal Hotel.
Mexican oil and gas EPC business group engages GCCI on Guyana’s local content requirements - August 14, 2024
On August 14, Senior Vice President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with Metalmecánica Especializada del Golfo (MEGSA), a Mexican business group that specialises in engineering, procurement, and construction for the oil and gas industry with vast experience in tank farm construction.
The MEGSA team comprised Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Pedro Oscar Morales Gonzalez, and Commercial Manager, Mr. Arturo Vazquez, who expressed an interest in seeking opportunities in Guyana. The GCCI officials provided an overview of Guyana’s business and investment environment, as well as the Chamber’s role. With a strong emphasis on the importance of partnering with local businesses, the GCCI team provided the businessmen with insights into the Local Content Act, and its requirements.
Teenternship’
2024 held - August 16, 2024
Ten students from Camille’s Academy benefited from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) Annual ‘Teenternship’ Programme 2024, which was aimed at providing them with practical experiences in the working environment in relation to leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and management.
The fourth form students underwent their orientation to the programme on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the GCCI, where they were assigned to work with several businesses including Guyana Payroll Solutions Incorporated, Rafeek and Moore Customs Brokerage Firm and Logistics Incorporated, Raj Singh Insurance Brokers and Risk Management Consultants Incorporated, Guyana Electric Incorporated, Java Coffee Bar and Bistro, ActionInvest Caribbean Incorporated, Cerulean Incorporated, Technip FMC, and Beharry Automotive Limited.
GCCI
engages with U.K Trade Commissioner - August 20, 2024
On August 20, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and Secretary of the GCCI, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George attended a meeting with British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Jane Miller OBE and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Jonathan Knott, during which opportunities for increased trade between Guyana and the United Kingdom was discussed.
GCCI and the Centre for Local Business Development discuss collaboration - August 26, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on August 26, 2024, met with officials from the Centre for Local Business Development to discuss partnering for capacitybuilding initiatives for local businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME).
Acting President of the GCCI, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, and Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with Director of the Centre, Mrs. Natasha Gaskin-Peters; Deputy Director, Ms. Gina Arjoon, and Analytics Coordinator, Mr. Ron Glasgow.
Zambia’s High Commissioner to Guyana pays courtesy call on GCCI - August 28, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on August 28, engaged officials from TCL Group, who expressed a keen interest in collaborating with the GCCI in support of the Chamber’s activities.
The GCCI’s Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Secretary and Councillor, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George met with TCL Group’s Guyana Business Manager, Mr. Juan Castro, and Group Enterprise Risk Manager, Mr. Norville Clarke.
Zambia’s High Commissioner to Guyana pays courtesy call on GCCI - August 28, 2024
On August 28, 2024, Non-resident High Commissioner of Zambia to Guyana, His Excellency, Glynne N. Michelo paid a courtesy call on the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).
H.E Michelo met with Secretary of the GCCI and Councillor, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, as well as Executive Members and Councillors, Mr. Richard Rambarran and Mr. Timothy Tucker.
GCCI participates in seminar at the Academy for International Business Officials in China - August 26- September 14, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in a seminar at the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) in Changping District, Beijing, China.
President, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillor, Mr. Delmar Walcott, and Trade and Investment Consultant, Ms. Jessica Campbell participated in the two-week seminar.
The seminar featured informational sessions that are geared towards helping the business community of Latin American and Caribbean countries to enhance their export capacity and international business capacity, and better integrate into the global value chain, as well as enhance their understanding of the Chinese path to modernisation.
GCCI partners with GCHBCA to increase members’ awareness on customs issues - September 12, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) Trade and Investment Committee on September 12 facilitated an awareness and information session with members on customsrelated issues, through a collaboration with the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association (GCHBCA).
With presentations from the President of the Association, Mr. Colin Moore as well as Vice President, Mr. Christopher Matthias; Rice Exportation Specialist, Ms. Basdai Racktoo, and Timber Export Specialist, Mr. Nicholas Ramcharran, the hybrid session—which saw both online and in-person attendance—equipped attendees with crucial information on import and export policies and issues.
GCCI participates in stakeholder meeting to finalise National Quality Policy - September 12, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on September 12 participated in a stakeholder meeting on the finalisation of the country’s National Quality Policy.
Councillor, Mr. Paul Archer, attended the engagement which was held by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards. This policy is being developed under the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) Project of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce.
GCCI collaborates with with GRA to raise members’ awareness on tax obligations and compliance - September 18, 2024
On September 18, 2024, the Chamber partnered with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to provide businesses with valuable information in relation to taxation in Guyana.
Mr. Gavin Low, Deputy Commissioner of Customs, Excise and Trade Operations; Mrs. Naresha BobbSample, Senior Manager of Communication and Taxation Tax Advisory Services Unit; Ms. Carolita Edwards, Group Leader of the Tax Advisory and Publication Unit, and Ms. Susan Watson, a Tax Specialist, provided participants with pertinent information on taxation policies and regulations, compliance requirements for business and reporting best practices, and fielded questions on excise tax, income tax, corporation tax and duty, among other areas.
GCCI visits Gas-to-Energy project at Wales, W.B.D. - September 19, 2024
The Chamber’s Petroleum Committee organised a visit to the project site by a delegation from the GCCI, including Executive Members and Councillors, that was conducted on September 19. The team visited the Gas-to-Energy project at Wales, West Bank Demerara, where they were updated on the project’s progress thus far and plans for upcoming works to the site.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillors, Mr. Paul Archer, Mr. Delmar Walcott, and Mr. Keon Howard led the team of over 20 GCCI members on the visit, which saw crucial updates in relation to project completion, including information on local content utilisation, being provided.
GCCI and U.S. Embassy collaborating to address labour shortage in Guyana - September 24, 2024
On September 24, 2024, Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met with officials from the U.S Embassy, including Political and Economic Chief, Mr. Russell Zalizniak and United States Agency for International Development/Eastern and Southern Caribbean (USAID/ESC) Senior Development Specialist Advisor, Mr. Aaron Spencer to discuss interventions in addressing Guyana’s labour shortage.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Secretary and Chairperson of the Human Resource Management and Capacity-building Committee, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Treasurer and Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the officials and provided an overview of the challenges facing the country in relation to the labour shortage as well as the impact on the local private sector, and commenced discussions on the joint approach to closing the gap.
GCCI meets with the London Chamber of and Industry - September 13, 2024
A delegation from the GCCI, including Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker; Councillor, Mr. Rayad Boyce, and Member, Mr. Ian Dhanraj met with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Head of International, Ms. Marta Kozlowska and several other officials of the London Chamber to explore the reinvigoration of a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the LCCI to promote trade and investment between Guyana and the United Kingdom through a collaborative effort.
GCCI partners with WUSC to build agroprocessing capacity of women farmers in Region Five - September 19, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with World University Service of Canada, which is being funded by Global Affairs Canada, the Guyana Marketing Corporation and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, embarked on a project geared at building the agro-processing capacity of 15 women farmers in Region Five. On September 19, a kick-off meeting was held with the beneficiaries, which will be followed by training on post-harvest handling, packaging, and other related topics. Ultimately, the objective is to equip the women with the skills needed to utilise a processing facility in the region to add value to their products and support them with getting their brands on supermarket shelves.
GCCI meets with the London Chamber of and Industry - September 13, 2024
On September 26, 2024, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) brought industry leaders and local entrepreneurs into one room to discuss these prospects at its inaugural ‘Energy Luncheon’.
With insights on their companies’ operations, expansion plans and local content initiatives, Production Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana, Mr. Huzefa Ali; Country Manager of MODEC, Mr. Rafael Fumis; Deputy General Manager of Guyana Shore Base Incorporated, Mr. Rabin Chandarpal; Supply Chain Manager of Saipem Guyana Incorporated, Mr. Giancarlo Dagnino, and General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, Mr. Martin Cheong engaged scores of attendees on how their businesses can tap into the industry’s supply chain. This event was organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee.
GCCI and International Centre for Trade Transparency sign MoU on access to trade rules and regulations for members - October 2, 2024
On October 2, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the International Centre for Trade Transparency Limited (ICTTM) out of London, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide members of the Chamber with priority access to ICTTM’s ADAMftd software system.
The MoU was signed by President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson in the presence of Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram.
GCCI discusses CET and ROO at NACEN Technical Working Groups meeting - October 2, 2024
On October 2, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in a meeting of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN) Technical Working Groups (TWGs), where issues related to the Common External Tariff (CET) and Rules of Origin (ROO) for the Caricom region was discussed.
Councillor and Chairperson of the GCCI’s Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram, and Councillor and Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards represented the Chamber at the meeting which was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
GCCI Coucillors support Guyana Cancer Foundation’s Annual Tree-wrapping exercise - October 3, 2024
On October 3, Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) attended the Guyana Cancer Foundation’s Tree Wrapping Ceremony on Main Street, Georgetown, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month which is being observed in October. In attendance were Councillors, Mrs. Krista Ramlagan-Prescott, Ms. Mary Nagasar, Mr. Keon Howard, Mr. Paul Archer, Mr. Delmar Walcott, and Mr. Rayad Boyce.
The second Annual Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference in Guyana was held on October 8 and 9, 2024 at the Pegasus Atlantic Ballroom. The event was the result of a collaboration between the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and was held under the theme ‘Financing for success: Where passion, prosperity and people align.’
The two-day event was an important forum for discussing the direction of capital markets in the region. With keen focus on expanding access to equity capital and creating an environment where more people can participate in financial markets, the conference focused on the importance of access to capital for business sustainability, and is underpinned by the view that strong, inclusive capital market will provide the answers for many problems that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and other companies experience.
Annual Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference in Guyana held - October 8&9, 2024
gcciGCCI and Labour Ministry discuss collaboration to address labour shortage and increaasing technical workforce, among other areas - October 14, 2024
On October 14, 2024, a delegation from the GCCI met with Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton and a team from his ministry, including Chief Labour Officer, Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine; Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Consultant, Ms. Gweneth King; Chief Executive Officer of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), Mr. Richard Maughn; Chief Co-operatives Development Officer, Mr. Janaknauth Panchu; Assistant Chief Recruitment and Manpower Officer, Ms. Shaundell Glasgow, and Legal Officers Ms. Alyea Williams and Ms. Janelle Thomas.
The GCCI’s team included President and Chairperson of the Advocacy Committee, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary and Chairperson of the Human Resource Management and Capacity-building Committee, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Councillor and Chairperson of the Security and Governance Committee, Mr. Paul Archer; Councillor, Mr. Keon Howard, and Councillor and Chairperson of the Green Committee, Mr. Delmar Walcott.
Canadian High Commissioner pays courtesy call on GCCI - October 15, 2024
On October 15, Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency, Sebastien Sigouin,who officially commenced his duty in-country in September, paid a courtesy call on the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).
H.E. Sigouin met with President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Councillor and Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker, and Councillor and Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards.
GCCI and British High Commissioner discuss increased bilateral trade between Guyana and U.K - October 15, 2024
On October 15, Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) paid a courtesy call on British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Jane Miller OBE.
President, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Councillor and Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram engaged the High Commissioner as well as Country Director for Trade and Investment within the Department for Business and Trade at the British High Commission, Mr. Sherwyn Naughton.
Saipem collaborates with GCCI to engage business at Vendor Forum- October 17, 2024
Saipem Guyana, ExxonMobil’s prime contractor that specialises in subsea systems for the offshore energy industry, on October 17 hosted a Vendor Forum through a collaborative effort with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).
Country Manager, Mr. Della Rosa Gianluigi; Senior Buyer, Mr. Akil Gittens, and Local Content Coordinator and Subcontract Administrator, Ms. Bindya Deokaran engaged members of the GCCI in a presentation on the company’s local footprint, upcoming opportunities, local content efforts, and their procurement process. The event was held in the Chamber’s Boardroom and hosted by Senior Vice President and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith.
Capacity-building project for women farmers in Region Five - October 15, 2024
Phase Two of the capacity-building project for women farmers in Region Five continued on October 15, with a training session led by the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD). The project is being executed by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and World University Service of Canada, which is being funded by Global Affairs Canada, in partnership with the Guyana Marketing Corporation, GA- FDD, and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute.
The session served as a follow-up to previous initiatives designed to support these groups in becoming successful food producers, and participants received guidance that enhanced their skills and knowledge in food production and processing. The training focused on food safety, quality control, best practices, safety standards and compliance, and sustainable production methods. The training was conducted by Ms. Crystal Nunes and Mr. Clyde Wickham of the GA - FDD.
GCCI hosts fundraiser to support upgrading of CT scan facilities at Guyana Cancer Institute - October 29, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on October 29 hosted the Nadene GilbertRambarran Cancer Awareness Fundraiser with the objective of upgrading the CT scan facilities at the Guyana Cancer Institute. The event was held at Palm Court through the support of Shaws Media, Palm Court, Dapper Technology, Dynotech, and Lodestar.
GCCI Executives discuss collaboration with Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana - October 23, 2024
Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on October 23 paid a courtesy call on the Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana, H.E. Liselle Remelda Blankendal, during which the two parties discussed strengthening their relationship and collaborating to facilitate Guyanese businesses expanding operations into Suriname.President, Mr. Kester Hutson; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRaeGeorge, and Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards met with the Ambassador as well as the Ambassador’s Secretary, Mrs. Lucill Starke-Esajas, and provided them with an overview of the GCCI’s history, role, and initiatives.
GCCI participates in Local Content Forum - October 25, 2024
With keen focus on improving the quality of service being provided by local companies and reminding Guyanese businesses of the importance of capacity building, the Private Sector Commission’s second annual Local Content Forum saw the attendance of President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Councillor, Mr. Delmar Walcott, as well as members of the Chamber.
The event was held at the Guyana Marriott on October 25 and received the GCCI’s support as it is aligned with the objectives of the Chamber, particularly as it relates to ensuring Guyanese companies benefit from the extraction of the country’s natural resources.
Technology conference held - October 24-25, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Private Sector Commission (GMSA) and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) partnered to host the second annual Technology Conference on October 24-25, at the Pegasus Corporate Suites, which was held under the theme “Cyber Strong with AI”.
The free two-day event focused on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that are associated with integrating Artificial Technology and Information Communication Technology (ICT) into business operations, with key insights into cybersecurity strategies, technological advancements, and AI-driven innovations.
GCCI’s capacity-building sessions benefit farmers in Region Two - October 24, 2024
On October 24, the ‘Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop’ was held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council Boardroom, in Anna Regina, Region Two, where over 20 farmers benefitted from training in ‘Farming as a business’, ‘Access to Finance’, ‘Access to Market’, ‘Good Agricultural Practices’, ‘Climate-smart innovations’, and ‘the importance of nutrients in agriculture.’
GCCI discusses preparations for General and Regional Elections 2025 with EU Ambassador - November 4, 2024
Emphasising the importance of the preservation of law, stability and democracy, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 4 met with Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, H.E René Van Nes to discuss the 2025 General and Regional Elections, and potential collaboration in preparation for the electoral season as it relates to voter information and the fielding of observer missions.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary and Councillor, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the Ambassador, and Press and information officer of the EU Delegation to Guyana, Mr. Javin Singh.
GCCI’s Petroleum Committee visits GYSBI - November 8, 2024
Emphasising the importance of the preservation of law, stability and democracy, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 4 met with Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, H.E René Van Nes to discuss the 2025 General and Regional Elections, and potential collaboration in preparation for the electoral season as it relates to voter information and the fielding of observer missions.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary and Councillor, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the Ambassador, and Press and information officer of the EU Delegation to Guyana, Mr. Javin Singh.
GCCI’s President encourages Finn business delegation to partner with lcoal businesses - November 5, 2024
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson on November 5 encouraged the visiting business delegation from Finland to partner with local businesses.
Mr. Hutson was at the time addressing the bilateral business seminar and networking event “GuyanaFinland: Partnerships for a Sustainable Future”, organised by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
U.K Trade Mission engages with GCCI - November 11, 2024
A United Kingdom Trade Mission comprising 20 firms was on November 11 encouraged to invest in Guyana and partner with local companies, with officials from the British High Commission pointing out that at least 50 percent of businesses from past UK Trade Missions successfully engaging in ventures with local businesses or conducting business in Guyana. These sentiments were expressed during a meeting with the GCCI. The Trade Mission was organised through the collaborative effort of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Department of Business and Trade of the British High Commission, and the Caribbean Council with the objective of sensitising the delegates about navigating the local business environment. The firms also benefited from a sensitisation session on Guyana’s business landscape, which was led by Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran.
U.K Trade Mission delegates meet with GCCI Councillors - November 12, 2024
Participants of the United Kingdom Trade Mission wrapped up its visit to Guyana by meeting with Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on November 13 at a networking event at Palm Court.
The event was organised by the Caribbean Council and saw representatives of the 20 UK businesses meeting with the GCCI Councillors including President, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran, as well as Councillors—Ms. Mary Nagasar, Mr. Komal Ramnauth, Mr. Keon Howard, Dr. Rosh Khan, Mr. Delmar Walcott, Mr. Navin Prashad, and Mr. Devon Seeram.
GCCI facilitates presentation on housing sector development by Minister Susan Rodrigues to members - November 12, 2024
In a bid to better understand the government’s strategy for the housing sector, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 12 facilitated a presentation by Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Hon. Susan Rodrigues to members of the Chamber.
Led by Senior Vice President and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith, the meeting saw over 40 in-person attendees, including President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson and several Councillors, as well as online participation. Mrs. Smith noted that the meeting was initiated based on the Petroleum Committee’s interest in the direction that the government is taking the sector in.
GCCI’s 2024 Business Development Forum focuses on empowering local businesses to tap into O&G supply chain - November 14-15, 2024
Under the theme ‘Developing local businesses for the emerging energy sector’, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) 2024 Business Development Forum was held on November 14 &15, with keen focus on empowering Guyanese businesses to tap into the oil and gas supply chain.
Senior Vice President of the Chamber and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Mrs. Kathy Smith in her opening remarks spoke of the Chamber’s commitment to fostering opportunities for Guyanese companies and building their capacity to serve the energy sector.
GCCI collaborates with partners to host Men’s Health and Agriculture Awareness Workshop in Region Three - November 19, 2024
Designed to champion the message of protecting the health of men in agriculture, a ‘Men’s Health and Agriculture Awareness Workshop’ was held on November 19, where over 50 farmers in Region Three were engaged in best practices in the utilisation of pesticides.
The workshop was spearheaded by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with World University Services of Canada (WUSC) with funding from Global Affairs Canada, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB).
Minister Deodat Indar updates GCCI on infrastructure development projects around Guyana - November 20, 2024
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Deodat Indar on November 20 updated members of the Chamber on infrastructure development projects that are ongoing and in the pipeline around the country.
The meeting, which was held in the GCCI’s boardroom, was organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee, which is chaired by Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith. The Minister delivered a presentation that covered several areas including general infrastructure, energy infrastructure, aviation infrastructure, transportation networks, the procurement system, oil and gas infrastructure, and the government’s spend on infrastructure.
GCCI meets with French delegation scouting opportunities in Guyana - November 21, 2024
A French Business Delegation currently in Guyana met with Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) as well as the Chairman of the Trade and Investment Committee on November 21 in keeping with their objective of understanding the investment landscape and exploring potential areas for partnership and investment.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Timothy Tucker, and Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram met with EVOLEN, an association of energy sector companies and professionals that works towards the achievement of sustainable, reliable and cost-competitive solutions to achieve the energy industry’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
Apex-Brazil meets with GCCI to discuss strengthening of trade partnership between Guyana and Brazil - November 21, 2024
With discussions on trade opportunities between Guyana and Brazil as well as potential areas of collaboration for skills exchange, the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil) met with Executive Members and Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 21.
Market Intelligence Analyst, Mr. Igor Gomes and Foreign Trade Analyst, Mr. Pedro Piá of Apex-Brazil, accompanied by the Commercial Specialist of the Trade and Investments Section of the Embassy of Brazil in Guyana, Ms. Terrianna Selby engaged Senior Vice President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Councillor and Chairman of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram, and Councillor, Mr. Rayad Boyce as they sought to gather information on the business culture in Guyana, logistics chains, regulatory environment, distribution networks, consumption patterns, and the perception of Guyanese consumers regarding Brazilian products.
GCCI collaborates with Ministry of Labour to host sensitisation session with members - November 21, 2024
Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) benefited from a sensitisation session that was facilitated through a collaboration between the Chamber’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee, which is chaired by Councillor and Executive Member, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and the Ministry of Labour on November 21.
The three-hour session was held in the GCCI’s boardroom and saw the Ministry’s Legal Officers, Ms. Alyea Williams and Ms. Janelle Thomas; Senior Labour Officer, Mr. Premdat Basdeo, and Assistant Chief Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Mr. Royden Croal engaging over 50 GCCI members on pertinent HR matters and fielded related questions.
GCCI meets with Belgian First Secretary for Political Affairs - November 27, 2024
Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met with First Secretary of the Belgian Embassy in Jamaica—which also has responsibility for Guyana—Mr. Gaspard Van Goethem on November 27 and discussed strengthening bilateral trade relations with Belgium and closer ties between the Chamber and the Business Associations in Belgium.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Junior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar; Treasurer and Councillor, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the Belgian official, whose intention was to gain a clearer understanding of Guyana and the business environment.
GCCI lobbies for continued collaboration with China on trade and local content utilisation - November 27, 2024
Following attendance at a trade seminar in China in September and participation in the China-Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) Business Summit in Nicaragua in November, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson lobbied for continued collaboration between Guyana and China in the area of trade, and also voiced the call for Chinese companies operating in Guyana to support the local content drive by collaborating with Guyanese companies, particularly Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). These sentiments were expressed during a debriefing seminar with outgoing Chinese Ambassador, Her Excellency, Guo Haiyan at the Chinese Embassy on November 27.
GCCI members benefit from awareness sessions on standards through collaboration with GNBS and FDA - November 28, 2024
Even as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) advocates for the enforcement of standards and compliance among retailers and distributors, the Chamber has taken active steps to ensure that its membership is aware of the standards and requirements for products being sold to consumers in Guyana through the organisation of education and awareness activities.
On November 28, the GCCI’s Trade and Investment Committee collaborated with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) to host an awareness seminar for members that provided insights into Guyana’s standards and requirements for the manufacturing and importation of food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics; the enforcement of standards and verification, as well as the services provided by the two agencies.
GCCI welcomes new members at President’s Reception - November 29, 2024
In a bid to ensure that new members become more integrated into the organisation’s work and fully utilise the opportunities that arise as a result of membership, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 29 hosted the President’s Reception—allowing members that registered between April and November to network among each other, and better understand the roles and benefits of the GCCI. The activity was organised by the GCCI’s Membership and Diversity, and Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committees. The event was held in the GCCI’s boardroom and saw Councillors including Executive Members—President, Mr. Kester Huston; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Secretary, Mrs. Melisa McRaeGeorge, and Executive Members, Mr. Richard Rambarran and Mr. Timothy Tucker—welcoming the new members to the Chamber.
GCCI members meet visiting international trade delegation - December 3, 2024
An international trade delegation, which comprised 10 companies from the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Chile, met with Councillors and members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry on December 3, as they sought to learn more about the investment landscape in Guyana and scope out potential partners in the country.
The International Trade Mission to Guyana was organised by the Energy Industries Council in partnership with Aberdeen International Associates and included companies in the manpower and recruitment, safety equipment, heavy and offshore machinery, oil and gas, and engineering sectors.
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran, and Councillors Mr. Rayad Boyce, Ms. Mary Nagasar, Mr. Keon Howard, and Mr. Devon Seeram along with members of the Chamber attended the networking and information-sharing event.
GCCI’s 2024 Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner recognises outstanding business and entrepreneurs - December 12, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on December 12, 2024, held its 135th Annual Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner, during which several outstanding businesses and entrepreneurs were recognised for their sterling performance and contributions. Hosted at the Guyana Marriott Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, the evening’s proceedings saw the keynote address being delivered by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Deodat Indar. Other government officials and members of the diplomatic community were among the hundreds of attendees.
UAE
Charge d’Affaires pays courtesy call on GCCI - January 14, 2025
On January 14, Charge d’Affaires of the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Fahad Hatrash paid a courtesy call on the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, and Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith.
Mr. Hatrash was provided with an overview of the Chamber’s history, role, and membership by the GCCI Officials. With a keen interest by the Charge d’Affaires in the business landscape in Guyana—particularly the development of small businesses—the conversation also delved into the country’s economic development and its impact on local businesses.
GCCI President urges GITC Graduates to maintain positive attitude towards work and self-improvement - January 16, 2025
Addressing the 57th Graduation Ceremony of the Guyana Industrial Training Centre on January 16, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson urged the graduates to maintain a positive attitude towards work, while also remaining committed to selfimprovement. Mr. Hutson, who delivered the feature address, commended the graduates for their readiness to embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment. He stated, “These unique skills you have learned at the GITC are not just technical skills, they are the key to unlocking your potential and driving your success in years to come.”businesses.
GCCI meets with GEI - January 28, 2025
With the objective of collaborating with the purpose of encouraging adherence to standards and safety, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on January 28 met with officials from the Government Electrical Inspectorate (GEI).
President of the Chamber, Mr. Kester Hutson; Councillor, Mr. Keon Howard, and Chairperson of the Construction and HSSE Committee, Ms. Savira Ramroop met with Chief Electrical Inspector, Mr. Kevon Grimmond and Electrical Engineer, Mr. Joseph Peters.
GCCI engages with Brava on collaborations - January 22, 2025
On January 22, a team from Brava Business Solutions paid a courtesy call on Executive Members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and discussed potential collaborations.
General Manager, Mr. Hilton Wong; Sales Lead, Ms. Andrea King; ICT Manager, Mr. Lloyd Harmon; Special Projects Coordinator, Mr. Liam Bates, and Small and Medium Business Lead, Mr. Jamal Delph met with President of the Chamber, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran.
GCCI collaborates with EY to facilitate ESG Essentials Workshop for members - January 28, 2025
Through a collaboration with Ernst and Young (EY), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on January 28, facilitated an Environmental, Social and Governance Essentials Workshop for its membership. This initiative was led by the Chamber’s Green Economy Committee.
The objective of the workshop was to sensitise participants on how prioritising Environmental, Social, and Governance factors can transform their companies by boosting the business’ reputation, attracting socially responsible investors, and reducing long-term risks by incorporating sustainable strategies into the business model.
GCCI collaborates with MODEC to host Vendor Forum - February 5, 2024
In keeping with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI objective of ensuring that local companies benefit from the oil and gas sector through information sharing and capacity building, a MODEC Vendor Forum was hosted on February 5, 2025 through a collaborative effort between the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee and the company.
The event saw members of the GCCI receiving crucial information on the company’s procurement process and opportunities from the MODEC team, including Country Manager, Mr. Rafael Fumis, and Supply Chain Manager, Mr. Pedro Nascimento.
Attendees were provided with an overview of the company’s supply chain procedures, including vendor registration, and some upcoming opportunities. They were also able to interact with the company’s officials and ask questions.
GCCI
meets with NIS - February 6, 2024
A team from the National Insurance Scheme led by General Manager, Ms. Holly Greaves and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Council met on February 6, 2025, to discuss the challenges being experienced by the business community as it relates to accessing the services of NIS.
Among the areas discussed were concerns over the lack of timely disbursements, delays in the issuance of compliance certificates as well as processing of claims, and issues with communication. The Chamber also supplied NIS with a report on the challenges raised by its membership.
GCCI participates in first meetin of the Joint Commission on Renewed and Enhanced Cooperation between Guyana and Belize - February 10, 2024
Executive Member and Councillor of the GCCI, Mr. Richard Rambarran attended the First Meeting of the Joint Commission on Renewed and Enhanced Cooperation between Guyana and Belize on February 10, 2025.
The meeting, which was held at the Ramphal House Conference Room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation saw the participation of a number of stakeholders, including Guyana’s Ambassador to CARICOM and Director of the Multilateral and Global Affairs Department, His Excellency, George Talbot as well as High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency, Gale MillerGarnett. Other stakeholders from local and Belizean sectors that are interested in collaborating and initiating trade relations were also present.
GCCI attends launch of MODEC’s Trainee Programme - February 13, 2024
On February 13, President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson attended the Trainee Commencement Ceremony for MODEC’s Trainee Programme. MODEC is a Japanese company that specialises in the construction and operation of floating solutions for the offshore energy industry.
In December 2024, the company—following an extensive recruitment process—onboarded eight Trainees. These trainees are benefitting from capacity building that combines comprehensive training with mentorship, and will be travelling to Brazil and Singapore as part of their training.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) held a press briefing on February 14 at the GCCI Secretariat, and provided the media with an overview of the plans for its 2025 participation in the Offshore Technology Conference as well as the benefits that participants have received over the last several years.
Minister of Natural Resources makes presentation to GCCI members - February 17, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Petroleum Committee on February 17 hosted Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat who made a presentation to members on the pace of development in the oil and gas industry and provided insights into regulatory matters surrounding the sector.
This meeting was held in the Chamber’s boardroom and Minister Bharrat stated that these engagements are important, particularly since they provide the platform to discuss how Guyanese are supporting the sector, planned developments, and how local enterprises can be part of the development in the oil and gas sector i n Guyana. The minister updated members on operations in the various offshore blocks, including the Stabroek, Canje, Kaieteur, and Orinduik Blocks.
GCCI hosts OTC 2025 Press Conference - February 14, 2024
GCCI collaborates with GRA to host workshop for members - February 18, 2024
On February 18, the Chamber’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee in partnership with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) hosted a workshop that was geared towards ensuring businesses have a clear understanding of crucial processes in documentation and tax services.
The GRA’s Communication Officer, Mr. Fabian Clowes; IT Officer, Ms. Elizabeth Bourne; Tax Specialist, Mr. Samdavid Arron; ESERVICES Officer, Mr. Simmeon Kissoon; ESERVICES Officer, Mr. Roland Trotman; Tax Specialist, and Mr. Saisnarine Ramnarine facilitated the session.
The workshop saw participants benefiting from valuable insights and demonstrations in areas including the PAYE submission process, the income tax returns procedures and the advantages of electronic filing, and the use of the recently launched PADNA app which facilitates easy submission and tracking of refunds.
GCCI attends launch of Mexico-Guyana Chamber of Commerce - February 6, 2024
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was thrilled to support the launch of the Mexico-Guyana Chamber of Commerce on February 18. President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson attended the event at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
Head of the Guyana Office for Investment and Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop in his address to the gathering noted that there are now significant opportunities in Guyana for investors, and there have been a number of Mexican delegations that have visited Guyana. Remarks were also delivered by Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo and President of the Mexico-Guyana Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ricardo Magaña.
GCCI meets with Antiguan Tourism Officials - February 21, 2024
Officials of the GCCI on Friday, February 21 met with a team from the Antigua Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) and the Antigua Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) and discussed potential collaboration among the three organisations.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the ABTA’s Director of Tourism for the Caribbean and Latin America, Mrs. Charmaine Browne-Spencer, and Head of Operations for ABHTA, Ms. Anthea Watkins. The team’s visit to Guyana was aimed at promoting the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Market Place that is scheduled for May 2025 in Antigua.
GCCI meets with UG on collaborating to provide capacity-building for members and human resource database - February 28, 2024
President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson; Councillor and Chairperson of the Human Resource Management and Capacity-Building Committee, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George; Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran; Councillor, Mr. Rayad Boyce, and Vice Chairperson of the Human Resource Management and CapacityBuilding Committee, Ms. Holly Persaud on February 28 met with Dean of the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation, Dr. Leyland Lucas; Head of the Department of Marketing and Tourism, Ms. Coleen Patterson; Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance, Mr. Alfred Aaron, and Head of Department of Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management, Mr. Bruce Lovell to discuss areas for collaboration in this regard.
The meeting was geared towards discussing a collaboration between the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the University of Guyana to provide capacity-building opportunities for members and establish a human resource database of graduates of the university.
GCCI meets with SEBRAE - March 1, 2024
On February 27, a delegation from the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (SEBRAE) visited the Chamber during which discussions touched on the promotion of trade between Guyana and Brazil. SEBRAE is a private non-profit organisation, that aims to promote the competitiveness and sustainable development of Micro and Small Businesses in Brazil through efforts such as raising their participation in internal and external markets, increasing SMEs and entrepreneurs’ participation in networks and broadening entrepreneurship and cooperation culture.
Councillor and Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, Mr. Devon Seeram, and Treasurer and Chairperson of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards met with the Brazilian delegation in the GCCI’s boardroom and discussed, among other areas, the importance of developing commercial relations.
GCCI meets with AFC - March 5, 2024
On March 5, President of the Chamber, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillors and Executive Members, Mr. Timothy Tucker and Mr. Richard Rambarran, as well as Councillors Mr. Delmar Walcott, Mr. Paul Archer and Mr. Keon Howard met with the Executive Members of the Alliance For Change (AFC) in the Chamber’s boardroom.
Leader of the AFC, Mr. Nigel Hughes; Chairman, Mr. David Patterson; Former leader, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, and Executive Members, Mrs. Catherine Hughes and Ms. Juretha Fernandes attended the meeting. The engagement saw discussions on the party’s economic plan for the country, including its strategy for the growth of the non-oil sector and its focus on the economic empowerment of women.
Election day conduct and the electoral process were also discussed, and the Chamber took the opportunity to express its concerns regarding its experience in 2020, where the compilation of the Statement of Poll saw human interference.
CHAMBER REPORT 2024
April 1 - 25, 2024
• April 15: Mr. Hutson and Mrs. George met with executives of the newly constituted Guyana Association of Travel Agents (GATA). The meeting was requested by the GATA to garner support for critical issues regarding airline operations in Guyana.
• April 15: The Executive Management Committee met with MODEC Guyana Inc. to discuss MODEC’s formation in Guyana, the GCCI’s role in promoting private sector development, and explore potential partnerships.
• April 17: Members of the GCCI met with a delegation from CenerTech, a sister company of CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited. The primary objective for the delegation visiting Guyana was to engage with stakeholders, assess the business and operational climate, and showcase their services and capabilities as the company is considering operating in Guyana.
• April 18: Mr. Hutson attended the Annual General Meeting of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association.
• April 19: Members of the Executive Management Committee attended the ExxonMobil Guyana Energy Luncheon
• April 22: The Petroleum Committee facilitated a presentation on Guyana’s energy supply with Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Head of the Executive Management Committee of Guyana Power and Light (GPL) which was hosted by Mrs. Smith, Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee. The presentation was organized to allow members to learn about GPL’s plans, given how the frequent power outages have affected the private sector’s ability to operate efficiently and at maximum capacity.
• April 25: Mr. Hutson and Mr. Seeram attended the opening ceremony for the T&T Chamber Mission organized by the Centre for Local Business Development (Centre). With the Centre’s assistance, the T&T Chamber brought fifteen (15) companies to Guyana. These companies provide a wide range of services including manufacturing and distribution, banking and investment, food/beverage, paper products and packaging, ICT, FinTech, water and waste treatment, professional services, and more. The Mission’s purpose is for T&T businesses to engage with local companies and explore potential partnerships
May 1 - 29, 2024
• May 7: Mr. Ramsoondar represented the Chamber at a Workshop on the Implementation of Beneficial Ownership Transparency (BOT) Roadmap in Guyana, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Natural Resources through the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI).
• May 7: The Agriculture Committee of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted one of it’s Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop in Anna Catherina. The Workshop is among a series of workshops that are part of a programme which first began in 2022. The workshops are geared towards benefiting businesses along the agriculture sector value chain, with an emphasis on women and youth.
• May 8: Ms. Campbell attended a senior technical-level meeting hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
• May 8: Several members of the Guyana Delegation at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) attended a presentation by the US EXIM Bank. The presentation was facilitated by US EXIM Bank Regional Director, Mr. Eric Miller.
• May 13: Mrs. George attended a stakeholder meeting hosted the USAID Youth Resilience, Inclusion, and Empowerment (Y-RIE) Program which was done to share the findings of their recent youth-led Community Safety Profiling and Assets Mapping activity in Sophia (C, D, & E Fields) and the Werk-en-rust/Albouystown area.
• May 13: Mr. Hutson provided remarks during the opening ceremony for the Doing Business in Guyana Session which was held during the JAMPRO Mission to Guyana.
• May 13-14: Members of the GCCI participated in B2B sessions with delegates from the the JAMPRO Mission. The aim of the mission was to foster collaborative business relationships and to promote mutual growth and development opportunities for the Jamaican and Guyanese economies, through increased trade and commerce.
• May 14: Mr. Hutson and Mr. Rambarran met with Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency Conrad Enill, where discussions included the private sector longstanding concerns about impediments posed by Trinidad’s non-tariff barriers, as well as the need for respect for, and compliance with, Guyana’s local content legislation by Trinidadian companies.
• May 13-15: Members of the GCCI met with 305 Tires.Com and a representative of Goodyear Tires North America whose goal was to meet potential customers in Automotive, Heavy industry, Mining, Construction, and Transportation companies in Guyana.
• May 21: The Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee organized a presentation by the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority for members of the GCCI. The presentation covered a range of topics such as how to register a business, incorporation and registration of companies, annual returns and how to attain a transport.
• May 23-24: Members of the GCCI participated in B2B Sessions with a visiting delegation from the Cave Shepherd Group. The group of companies is seeking to expand its investment portfolio and identified Guyana as a market of interest. The Cave Shepherd Group primarily consists of financial services companies, including investments, consumer loans, and credit card or mobile services.
• May 29: Members of the Executive Management Committtee had an introductory meeting with ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd. Production Manager, Mr. Huzefa Ali. The conversation revolved around the importance of advocacy and engagement in the petroleum industry, as well as strategies to improve local content and support in the agriculture sector. They also discussed various strategies to boost the private sector in Guyana , including education, collaboration, and access to finance.
• May 29: The GCCI met with a team from the Caribbean Development Bank where the conversation focused on the structure, finances, and projects that the GCCI would have spearheaded namely Strengthening Service Delivery in the Tourism and Hospitality Sector in Guyana and improving Competitiveness of Agro-processors in Guyana through Training in Quality Standards.
June 1 - 27, 2024
• June 2: The Green Economy Committee participated in the Green Walk hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency in observance of World Environment Day 2024.
• June 3: The GCCI and the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana (DRCham Guyana) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) geared towards promoting the development of business relations, bilateral trade, and investment between the Dominican Republic and Guyana.
• June 6: Mrs. George and Mrs. Gurchuran met with the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to discuss collaborating on capacity-building initiatives and access to finance for members.
• June 12: The Executive Management Committee met with the Guyana Securities Council (GSC) to discuss collaborating to provide access to capital markets for the benefit of its members. The discussions focused on how members of the Chamber can access equity financing in Guyana and the role the Council plays in regulating the sector.
• June 12: The Green Economy Committee hosted a webinar on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
• June 12: The Executive Management Committee met with a team from the UN to discuss the implementation of a Joint Declaration of Intent signed in 2023 by the GCCI and the UN’s Office of the Resident Coordinator. The purpose of the meeting was to collaborate on initiatives to meet the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Guyana.
• June 13: Mrs. Gurchuran attended a consultation session to review the National Skills Audit Questionnaire. The National Skills Audit was commissioned by the Government of Guyana under the Strengthening Human Capital through Education Project and is being conducted by Dunn, Pierre Barnett, and Company Canada Limited. This initiative aims to provide baseline information for the upskilling of the local labor force.
• June 13: Mr. Walcott met with a team from S&P Global to provide feedback on the Gas Monetization Strategy. S&P Global has been contracted by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) to develop a Gas Monetization Strategy for Guyana’s natural gas resources.
• June 18: Mr. Hutson delivered remarks at the launch of the “National Campaign on Hate Speech”. The campaign launch coincided with the International Day for Countering Hate Speech and is a collaborative effort between the United Nations (UN) and the Ethnic Relations Commission.
• June 18: Members of the Security and Governance Committee met with the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department. The meeting focused on collaborative initiatives to raise road safety awareness among the Chamber’s members and the general public, the misuse of roads by drivers, and the need for improved education.
• June 20: The Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee organized a presentation in collaboration with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
July 1 - 25, 2024
• July 3: Ms. Sookraj represented the GCCI at the National Stakeholder Forum on the amendment to the Sexual Offenses Act. The forum provided an opportunity for reviewing and giving feedback on the proposed amendments.
• July 3: Members of the Executive Management Committee met with a team from Brava Guyana, led by Sales Director Mr. Hilton Wong. The discussion focused on the business solutions offered by the company that can have a positive impact on the local business landscape, including medium and small enterprises.
• July 5: Councillors of the (GCCI) paid a courtesy visit to Her Excellency Ambassador Guo Haiyan. During the meeting, they discussed sharing information on Chinese suppliers, cultural exchange programs, capacity-building opportunities for Guyanese entrepreneurs, and strengthening the relationship with the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Guyana.
• July 8: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) visited the High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency Gale Miller Garnett. During the visit, the GCCI and the High Commissioner discussed collaborating through a Trade Facilitation Council and addressing Non-Tariff Barriers to Trade in the Caricom region. They also explored working together to promote agricultural diversification.
• July 9: The Executive Management Committee met with a delegation of over 14 French businesses who visited Guyana to explore potential investment opportunities. These companies operate in various sectors and services, such as aerospace technology, helicopter manufacturing, aircraft maintenance, metal structure manufacturing, ICT, construction, energy management, electronics, transportation, and pharmaceuticals.
• July 9: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry(GCCI) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the GCCI and ACCA working together to promote the development of the profession, support educational initiatives and grow the pool of accountants in Guyana, among other initiatives. The agreement also seeks to advocate for policies that promote a favourable business environment and address challenges facing the two entities, while utilizing their joint networks to propel the developmental agenda of the MoU.
• July 10-12: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) participated in the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. The Chamber interacted with several Caribbean businesses, helping them understand Guyana’s business environment and the investment opportunities available in the country.
• July 11: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged the Caricom Youth Ambassadors who are part of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) Attachment Programme. During the meeting, Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Mrs. Gurchuran delivered a presentation to the delegation on entrepreneurship.
• July 11: Councillors of the GCCI participated in a roundtable discussion to share priorities, expertise, and problem-solving ideas on advancing support to U.S. - Guyana trade and investment opportunities through improved coordination and concerted action. The discussion was intended to lead to a process of continued engagement facilitating opportunity identification and resource matching.ookraj represented the GCCI at the National Stakeholder Forum on the amendment to the Sexual Offenses Act. The forum provided an opportunity for reviewing and giving feedback on the proposed amendments.
• July 15: Mr. Rambarran and Mr. Seeram attended a meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding between Guyana and Belize on renewed and enhanced bilateral cooperation. The meeting sought to examine areas for cooperation between the two countries in relation to agriculture and food security, trade and investment, tourism, education, energy security, infrastructure, technology, and climate change.
• July 16: The Agriculture Committee partnered with the World University Service of Canada and several other stakeholders to empower students of the Guyana School of Agriculture and farmers with information and skills geared towards improving their knowledge, particularly in the business arena.
• July 18: Mr. Edwards and Mr. Seeram participated in a joint meeting on the activation of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN) Technical Working Groups (TWGs).
• July 18: The Executive Management Committee paid a courtesy visit to U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot during which a number of issues related to bilateral trade and investment, and collaborating in the areas of capacity-building opportunities and trade mission were discussed.
• July 18-19: The Petroleum Committee partnered with the Centre for Local Business Development for a two-day workshop on Procurement training for members of the GCCI.
• July 3: Ms. Sookraj represented the GCCI at the National Stakeholder Forum on the amendment to the Sexual Offenses Act. The forum provided an opportunity for reviewing and giving feedback on the proposed amendments.
• July 3: Members of the Executive Management Committee met with a team from Brava Guyana, led by Sales Director Mr. Hilton Wong. The discussion focused on the business solutions offered by the company that can have a positive impact on the local business landscape, including medium and small enterprises.
August 1 - 28, 2024
• August 2: Mr. Archer and Mr. Alleyne attended the Annual National Stakeholders Road Safety Forum, which was held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary. The forum addressed key stakeholders’ and partners’ commitment and future plans for reducing road fatalities and accidents.
• August 9: Mr. Hutson attended a meeting hosted by Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to inform stakeholders of plans to install new water transmission main lines in the city. A basic overview of the plan to update the main lines along Avenue of the Republic and High Street was provided during the engagement.
• August 14: The GCCI participated in a Multistakeholder Forum on Sustaining Women, Youth, and Marginalized Male Farmers’ Participation in Agricultural Markets. The forum was part of the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project, which is funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by the World University Service of Canada. Mr. Edwards and Ms. Waddle represented the GCCI at the Forum, which took place at the Grand Coastal Hotel.
• August 14: Mrs. Smith and Mr. Rambarran met with Metalmecánica Especializada del Golfo (MEGSA), a Mexican business group that specializes in engineering, procurement, and construction for the oil and gas industry. MEGSA has vast experience in tank farm construction and expressed an interest in seeking opportunities in Guyana.
• August 15: The Petroleum Committee collaborated with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) to host an Awareness Session on Energy Conservation, Energy Efficiency, and Electric Mobility. The session focused on highlighting the advantages and cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency. It provided valuable information on sustainable business practices and smart solutions for both home and workspace.
• August 14-15: Mr. Hutson participated in the 4th Governance for Development Dialogue organized by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
• August 16: The National Small Business Week Committee held an orientation session for the students participating in the Teenternship Program which was aimed at providing the students with practical experiences in the working environment in relation to leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and management. The one-week internship programme provided students with hands-on work experience, with an opportunity to understand the foundational aspects of business and office administration in a wide range of industries.
• August 19-23: Students from Camille’s Academy who participated in the Teenternship Program had the opportunity to shadow CEOs or General Managers in medium-sized businesses for the week. Member companies that supported the program were Guyana Payroll Solutions Inc. Rafeek and Moore Customs Brokerage Firm and Logistics Inc., Raj Singh Insurance Brokers and Risk Management Consultants Incorporated, Guyana Electric Inc., Java Coffee Bar and Bistro, ActionInvest Caribbean Inc., Cerulean Inc, Technip FMC, and Beharry Automotive Limited.
• August 20: Mr. Hutson and Mrs. George attended a meeting with British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Jane Miller OBE, and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner to Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Jonathan Knott, during which opportunities for increased trade between Guyana and the United Kingdom were discussed.
• August 22: Mr. Edwards attended the signing ceremony of the Memoranda of Understanding with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute and the Guyana Economic Development Fund Inc. The ceremony also served as an opportunity to provide stakeholders with an update on CAPA’s implementation progress.
• August 26: Mr. Ramsoondar and Mr. Rambarran met with officials from the Centre for Local Business Development to discuss partnering for capacity-building initiatives for local businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME).
• August 28: Mr. Rambarran, Mrs. George, and Mr. Tucker met with H.E. Glynne N. Michelo, NonResident Ambassador of Zambia to Guyana. During his visit, the councilors provided an overview of Guyana’s economic landscape and investment climate, as well as insight into the Chamber’s role and history. His Excellency expressed interest in collaborating with the GCCI and introduced Zambia’s potential as an investment and trade destination for Guyana.
• August 28: Mrs. George and Mr. Rambarran met with TCL Group’s (Guyana) Business Manager, Mr. Juan Castro, and Group Enterprise Risk Manager, Mr. Norville Clarke. During the meeting, the representatives indicated that they are seeking to align with the strategic objectives of the Chamber to be more actively involved in the Chamber’s initiatives. The discussions focused on upcoming activities that the GCCI will be spearheading and how the company can provide support.
September 1 - 25, 2024
• August 29 – September 13: The GCCI participated in a seminar at the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) in Beijing, China. The seminar included sessions aimed at helping businesses in Latin American and Caribbean countries improve their export and international business capabilities, integrate into the global value chain, and gain a better understanding of China’s modernization efforts. The objectives also involved fostering a community with a shared future for China and Latin America and promoting project matching and technical cooperation between business associations in Latin American, and Caribbean countries and Chinese industries and enterprises.
• September 11: A small team represented the GCCI at the BritCham Guyana London launch.
• September 12: The Trade and Investment Committee facilitated an awareness and information session with members on customs-related issues, through a collaboration with the Guyana Customs House Brokers and Clerks Association (GCHBCA). Participants were briefed on the role of customs brokers and trade policies, as well as provided information on customs-related issues. An overview of the rice and forestry sectors—as it relates to customs in Guyana—was also shared with attendees.
• September 12: Mr. Archer took part in a stakeholder meeting aimed at finalizing Guyana’s National Quality Policy, organized by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards. This meeting is part of the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) Project under the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce. Currently, a consultancy is in progress to complete the National Quality Policy (NQP) and its Implementation Plan. Once finalized, these documents will be presented to the Government of Guyana for approval and implementation. The development of the National Policy has identified six priority sectors: fresh fruits and vegetables, food and agro-processed products, aquaculture and seafood, furniture and forestry products, poultry and livestock, and tourism and hospitality.
• September 13: A delegation from the GCCI met with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Head of International, Ms. Marta Kozlowska and several other officials of the LCCI to explore the reinvigoration of the MOU that was signed in 1996 between the two chambers. The London Chamber has international members whom they assist with conducting business in London. Through the discussions, the Georgetown Chamber was able to secure a discounted membership subscription rate for GCCI members to join the LCCI. The two parties also agreed to collaborate for their respective members to attend seminars and events being hosted in Guyana and London.
• September 18: The Trade and Investment Committee partnered with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to provide businesses with valuable information in relation to taxation in Guyana. Participants were provided with pertinent information on taxation policies and regulations, compliance requirements for business and reporting best practices, and were given the opportunity to ask questions on excise tax, income tax, corporation tax, and duty, among other areas.
• September 19: The Petroleum Committee organized a visit to the Gas-to-Energy project site where they were updated on the project’s progress thus far and plans for upcoming works to the site.
• September 23: The Executive Management Committee met with IDB Consultant César Yammal and his assistant Clara Schettini who are presently engaged in a consultancy project entitled “Establishing a Business Support Desk for Enhanced Financial Access in Guyana,” in collaboration with the Private Sector Commission. The objective of this initiative is to identify the primary challenges and opportunities that the private sector encounters in accessing financial resources and support.
• September 24: Members of the EMC met with officials from the U.S Embassy, Mr. Russell Zalizniak, Political and Economic Chief, and Senior Development Specialist Advisor, Mr. Aaron Spencer at the United States Agency for International Development/Eastern and Southern Caribbean (USAID/ESC) to discuss interventions in addressing Guyana’s labour shortage. They were provided an overview of the challenges facing the country in relation to the labour shortage as well as the impact on the local private sector, and commenced discussions on the joint approach to closing the gap. The challenges were examined both in the formal, urban context, as well as in the rural perspective.
October
1 - 25, 2024
• October 2: The GGCI and the International Centre for Trade Transparency Limited (ICTTM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide members of the Chamber with priority access to ICTTM’s ADAMftd software system. The ADAMftd software system is a revolutionary tool aimed at enhancing transparency and compliance in international trade. Access to this software will enhance the economic activity of Guyanese companies by ensuring their compliance with international trade rules and regulations and assisting them in identifying new international markets.
• October 2: Mr. Seeram, and Mr. Edwards participated in a meeting of the National Advisory Committee on External Negotiations (NACEN) Technical Working Groups (TWGs), where issues related to the Common External Tariff (CET) and Rules of Origin (ROO) for the Caricom region was discussed.
• October 3: Councillors of the GCCI attended the Guyana Cancer Foundation’s Tree Wrapping Ceremony in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
• October 8-9: The GCCI in collaboration with the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) hosted the second Annual Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference under the theme ‘Financing for Success: Where Passion, prosperity, and people align.’
• October 9: The Trade and Investment Committee hosted an online discussion with the Department of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The topics covered included trade policies, market access, Rules of Origin, and dispute resolution within trade agreements.
• October 10: The Finance Committee organized an exclusive webinar for members, hosted by Mobile Money Guyana (MMG), to present their new Merchant Checkout API.
• October 14: Councillors of the GCCI met with Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton, and a team from his ministry. Among the issues addressed were the labour deficit that exists in the country and the need for this to be addressed frontally through increased training, as well as the worrying statistics as it relates to workplace accidents and fatalities.
• October 15: Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency Sebastien Sigouin, paid a courtesy visit to the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). During his visit, the GCCI highlighted its long-standing relationship with previous Canadian High Commissioners and businesses. They also underscored the importance of a Memorandum of Understanding established with the Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association. This agreement is designed to foster projects and enhance trade within the oil and gas sector, which serves as a pivotal driver of local content initiatives in Guyana. Additionally, the GCCI expressed interest in expanding trade between Guyana and Canada, advocating for visa-free travel for Guyanese citizens and a streamlined visa application process.
• October 15: Councillors of the GCCI paid a courtesy call to the British High Commissioner, Her Excellency, Jane Miller OBE. Among the key areas of discussion were trade and ease of doing business, with pertinent discussions on the need for more flights to the United Kingdom, fielding incoming and outgoing trade missions, and banking sector support, as well as collaborating on the issue of access to finance in Guyana. The GCCI also advocated for a collaborative effort in connecting local businesses with UK firms in a bid to increase bilateral trade. The upcoming General and Regional Elections, slated for 2025, were also discussed, including plans for voter education initiatives.
• October 17: In collaboration with Saipem Guyana, ExxonMobil’s prime contractor specializing in subsea systems, the GCCI hosted a vendor forum. Saipem’s team engaged members with a presentation about the company’s local presence, upcoming opportunities, local content initiatives, and the procurement process.
• October 23: Members of the EMC paid a courtesy call on the Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana, H.E. Liselle Remelda Blankendal, during which the two parties discussed strengthening their relationship and collaborating to facilitate Guyanese businesses expanding operations into Suriname.
• October 24: Councillors of the GCCI met with a team from the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana. The meeting underscored the necessity of engaging various stakeholders to create a seamless visitor experience and improve the overall perception of Guyana as a tourist destination. Concerns regarding the cleanliness of the city and its negative impact on tourism were also a focal point of the meeting. Additionally, the importance of educational initiatives to promote a culture of cleanliness was discussed, with plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture. The aim is to create a unified approach to tackle these pressing issues and enhance the city’s appeal to tourists.
• October 25: Members of the Chamber attended the Private Sector Commission’s second annual Local Content Forum. The keynote address was delivered by Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat, who stressed the importance of Guyanese companies working towards achieving globally acceptable standards of service delivery. He also underscored the need for local companies and entrepreneurs to examine the market and the gaps that exist in terms of the goods and services needed and determine how best they can provide those goods and services to ensure local content utilization.
• October 24-25: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry(GCCI), the Private Sector Commission (PSC), and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) partnered to host the second annual Technology Conference. The free two-day event focused on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that are associated with integrating Artificial Technology and Information Communication Technology (ICT) into business operations, with key insights into cybersecurity strategies, technological advancements, and AI-driven innovations.
November 1 - 25, 2024
• November 4: Members of the Executive Management Committee met with the Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, H.E René Van Nes to discuss the 2025 General and Regional Elections, and potential collaboration in preparation for the electoral season as it relates to voter information and the fielding of observer missions.
• November 5: Mr. Hutson attended a bilateral business seminar and networking event organized by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. The seminar included presentations from experts from both countries, highlighting Guyana’s ambitious development plans. Additionally, Finnish companies showcased their innovative solutions aimed at fostering a sustainable, digitalized, and secure future across various industries, particularly in oil and gas, maritime and offshore, and mining and aggregates.
• November 5: Executives from the GCCI met with the new United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Ms. Jean Kamau. During this meeting, they presented an overview of GCCI’s history, role, accomplishments, and activities. The discussions also focused on potential collaboration between the two organizations to raise awareness among members on achieving and integrating the Sustainable Development Goals into their operations.
• November 5: Mr. Archer participated in a workshop organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance regarding the recommendations from the Inter-American Convention against Corruption.
• November 7: The GCCI in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and Business Finland organized a mining and aggregates workshop and networking event.
• November 5-7: The GCCI partnered with Business Finland for a trade mission aimed at businesses in the mining and aggregates sector.
• November 8: Members of the Petroleum Committee visited the Guyana Shore Base Incorporated (GYSBI) facility. The Operations Manager, Mr. Kevin Black, guided a tour of the 140-acre site, which includes the annex at Industrial Estate, Houston. During the tour, Mr. Black offered insights into the various facilities on the compound, explaining their roles in supporting GYSBI’s operations. He also highlighted the hundreds of subsea pipes in the laydown yard, detailing the functions and features of the different sizes.
• November 11-13: The GCCI collaborated with the Department of Business and Trade at the British High Commission, the British Chamber of Commerce Guyana (BritCham Guyana), and the Caribbean Council to organize a trade mission from the United Kingdom to Guyana. This initiative included 20 businesses and aimed to provide delegates with insights into navigating the local business environment.
• November 11: Delegates from the UK Trade Mission attended a sensitization session focused on Guyana’s business landscape, led by Mr. Richard Rambarran. He provided an overview of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), explaining its functions and how the Chamber supports businesses in the country. He also emphasized the importance of connecting with the local private sector.
• November 12: The Petroleum Committee hosted a presentation by the Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Susan Rodrigues, for members of the Chamber. The Minister provided an overview of ongoing housing developments, including Silica City, and discussed the government’s efforts to ensure citizens, particularly young people, have access to affordable housing. Minister Rodrigues also addressed the growing demand for housing and the challenges associated with finding sufficient contractors who can meet the rapid needs of the construction industry.
• November 12: Members of the GCCI attended a session on UK Export Finance (UKEF), led by Camilo Neira, the UKEF Country Head for Guyana. This session offered valuable insights into the financing options UKEF provides for projects with a minimum value of £1 million. UKEF assists local businesses in securing financing for projects that involve UK goods and services, presenting significant opportunities to support these businesses in their trade and development efforts.
• November 13: Members of the GCCI attended a networking lunch with delegates of the UK Trade Mission at Palm Court.
• November 14-15: The GGCI hosted the 2024 Business Development Forum, themed “Developing Local Businesses for the Emerging Energy Sector,” which was dedicated to empowering Guyanese enterprises to engage in the oil and gas supply chain effectively.
• November 20: The Hon. Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, provided an update to members of the Chamber on ongoing and upcoming infrastructure development projects across the country. This presentation, organized by the Petroleum Committee, addressed various areas, including general infrastructure, energy infrastructure, aviation infrastructure, transportation networks, the procurement system, oil and gas infrastructure, and the government’s spending on infrastructure.
• November 21: Executive members of the GCCI, along with the Chairperson of the Trade and Investment Committee, met with EVOLEN, an association of energy sector companies and professionals. EVOLEN works towards achieving sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective solutions to help the energy industry reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. The business delegation included representatives from Voltalia Guyane, Veolia, Vallourec, SPIE Global Services Energy, SeaOwl, SBM Offshore, REP Smart Chemicals, Ponticelli, Jifmar, and FOSELEV. The group organized the meeting to explore the numerous opportunities arising in Guyana’s rapidly growing energy sector and to discuss the investment strategies of key players within the industry.
• November 21: Executive Members and Councillors met with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil) to gather information on the business culture in Guyana, including logistics chains, the regulatory environment, distribution networks, consumption patterns, and the perceptions of Guyanese consumers regarding Brazilian products.
• November 21: Members of the GCCI participated in a sensitization session organized through a collaboration between the Chamber’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee and the Ministry of Labour. Attendees gained insights into key labor laws and workplace practices. The session covered important topics such as termination rights, employee benefits and obligations, overtime regulations, procedures for handling complaints at the Ministry of Labour, occupational safety and health issues, child labor, holiday payments, employment contracts, and sexual harassment in the workplace.
• November 22: The Trade and Investment Committee organized a presentation by the Department of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on the CARIFORUM-EU Economic Partnership Agreement and the CARIFORUM-UK Economic Partnership Agreement.
• November 25: The Petroleum Committee organized a presentation led by Ms. Germene Stewart, Chief Development Planner at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA). This session provided members with the opportunity to understand CHPA’s plans and initiatives for Silica City, which are relevant to the interests of the business community.
• November 26: Members of the EMC met with Mr. Gaspard Van Goethem, the First Secretary of the Belgian Embassy in Jamaica, which also oversees Guyana. The purpose of the meeting was for Mr. Van Goethem to gain a clearer understanding of Guyana and its business environment. During the discussion, the executives provided insights into the history and role of the Chamber. They emphasized the GCCI’s status as a trusted Business Support Organization in Guyana, noting that it is the oldest and most prominent organization of its kind, with a strong relationship with state agencies that support the business sector.
• November 27: The Construction and HSSE Committee met with Mr. Trevor Bassoo, Executive Director at the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) to discuss the development and implementation of standardized quality and safety standards in the construction industry.
• November 27: Councilors from the Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) attended a seminar hosted by Ambassador Guo Haiyan to discuss the cooperation between China and Guyana in developing the private sector. The seminar included a review of the GCCI’s participation in a related event at the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) in Beijing, China. The sessions were designed to help businesses in Latin American and Caribbean countries enhance their export capabilities, improve international business skills, integrate into the global value chain, and gain a better understanding of China’s modernization efforts.
January1 - 29, 2025
• January 14: Mr. Kester Hutson was paid a courtesy call by the Charge d’Affaires of the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Fahad Hatrash. Mr. Hatrash was provided with an overview of the Chamber’s history, role, and membership by the GCCI officials. With a keen interest by the Charge d’Affaires in the business landscape in Guyana, particularly the development of small businesses. The conversation also delved into the country’s economic development and its impact on local businesses.
• January 16: Mr. Hutson delivered the feature address at the 57th Graduation Ceremony of the Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC). President Hutson urged the graduates to maintain a positive attitude towards work, while also remaining committed to self-improvement. He also commended the graduates for their readiness to embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment.
• January 22: A team from Brava Business Solutions paid a courtesy call on Executive Members of the Chamber and discussed potential collaborations. General Manager, Mr. Hilton Wong, Sales Lead, Ms. Andrea King, ICT Manager, Mr. Lloyd Harmon, Special Projects Coordinator, Mr. Liam Bates, and Small & Medium Business Lead, Mr. Jamal Delph discussed the development of mechanisms to ensure that members of the Chamber benefit from efficient service, while establishing a channel to address challenges. The Brava team also committed to supporting several activities on the Chamber’s work plan, including the National Small Business Week.
• January 24: President Kester Hutson, Vice President Kathy Smith and Councillor Delmar Walcott attended the Chinese Embassy in Guyana’s Festival Reception. At the event, Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, H.E. Huang Rui provided an overview of China’s support to Guyana, particularly Chinese contribution to business, the medical sector and the construction sector. He also reflected on Guyana and China’s long standing friendship.
• January 28: The GCCI met with officials from the Government Electrical Inspectorate (GEI) on collaborating to raise awareness on certification, inspections and fostering safe practices in the electrical industry. The GEI team indicated that they are seeking to have legislation implemented to provide for continuous inspection during the construction and installation process. An agreement was made to host sensitisation sessions with the Chamber’s membership.
• January 28: The Green Economy Committee in collaboration with Ernst and Young (EY) facilitated an Environmental, Social, and Governance Workshop to educate its membership on how prioritizing said factors, can transform their companies by boosting the business reputation, attracting socially responsible investors, and reducing long-term risks by incorporating sustainable strategies into the business model. During the workshop the discussion areas were:
» Introduction to Climate Change
» Understanding ESG
» Climate Risks for Businesses
» Sustainability Reporting
» The importance of sustainability standards and climate risk management, particularly against the backdrop of the oil and gas industry.
January 31 - February 26, 2025
• January 31: The Chamber would have donated one million dollars to the Guyana Cancer Foundation. The funds were raised from the Nadene Gilbert-Rambarran Cancer Awareness Fundraiser that was held in October 2024. The cheque along with a mural painted by artist, Ms. Christina Parsan was handed over to the Institute by Senior Vice President of the Chamber, Mrs. Kathy Smith in the presence of Councillor and Chairperson of the Membership and Diversity Committee, Mrs. Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott and Membership Officer, Ms. Jasmaine Assanah, along with representatives of the Foundation.
• January 31: Senior Vice President of the Chamber, Kathy Smith, Executive Member and Councillor, Richard Rambarran and Councillor and Chairperson of the Green Economy Committee, Delmar Walcott, attended the Annual Dinner of the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Guyana (ACEG) commemorating the 2025 Chinese New Year and Spring Festival.
• February 3: The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee facilitated a Virtual Networking Session for the membership of the GCCI. The presentation was centered around the theme Building Export Capacity for Guyanese Manufacturers. The session saw presentations from Mr Gavin Bovell from GoInvest, Ms Ermine Darroux-Francis and Mr. Michael Gichure from Caribbean Office African Export-Import Bank.
• February 4: Councillor Keon Howard and Rayad Boyce attended a Candlelight Vigil hosted by the Guyana Cancer Foundation in honour of World Cancer Day. In honour of all the cancer survivors, fighters and all who would have lost their life to cancer.
• February 5: The Petroleum Committee in collaboration with MODEC conducted an informational Vendor Forum. Attendees were provided with an overview of the company’s supply chain procedures, including vendor registration, and some upcoming opportunities in the oil and gas sector. They were also able to interact with the company’s officials and ask questions.
• February 6: A team from the National Insurance Scheme led by General Manager, Ms. Holly Greaves and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Council to discuss the challenges being experienced by the business community as it relates to accessing the services of NIS. Among the areas discussed were concerns over the lack of timely disbursements, delays in the issuance of compliance certificates as well as processing of claims, and issues with communication. The Chamber also supplied NIS with a report on the challenges raised by its membership.
• February 10: The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has formally expressed an interest in developing a relationship with Business Support Organisations in Belize. Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran, who was present at the First Meeting of the Joint Commission on Renewed and Enhanced Cooperation between Guyana and Belize. The meeting, which was held at the Ramphal House Conference Room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation saw the participation of a number of stakeholders, including Guyana’s Ambassador to CARICOM and Director of the Multilateral and Global Affairs Department, His Excellency, George Talbot as well as High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, Her Excellency, Gale Miller-Garnett. Other stakeholders from local and Belizean sectors that are interested in collaborating and initiating trade relations were also present.
• February 13: President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson attended the Trainee Commencement Ceremony for MODEC’s Trainee Programme. The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) firmly supports initiatives geared towards local content development. MODEC stated that it recognises the crucial role that locals play in the oil and gas industry, as such, this programme is designed to create employment opportunities for the local workforce.
• February 14: The GCCI is preparing for Guyana’s participation in the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2025, and businesses are being encouraged to tap into the wealth of opportunities that the conference presents. The Chamber in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) held a press briefing that provided the media with an overview of the plans for its 2025 participation as well as the benefits that participants have received over the last several years. President of the GCCI, Kester Hutson, Senior Vice President, Kathy Smith, Executive Member and Councillor, Richard Rambarran, Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Dr. Gopnauth Bobby Gossai, Senior Investment Officer at Guyana Office of Investment, Brava Solutions and Blue Water Shipping Guyana Incorporated all expressed the importance of supporting this initiative.
• February 17: The Petroleum Committee hosted the Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat who made a presentation to members on the pace of development in the oil and gas industry and provided insights into regulatory matters surrounding the sector. The Senior Vice President, Kathy Smith also outlined the numerous initiatives that the GCCI is undertaking to achieve its objective of supporting local content development.
• February 17: Cpt. Gerald Gouveia led a discussion in the GCCI Boardroom to discuss matters related to the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
• February 18: The Chamber’s Human Resource Management and Capacity Building Committee in partnership with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) hosted a workshop that was geared towards ensuring businesses have a clear understanding of crucial processes in documentation and tax services. The GRA’s Communication Officer, Mr. Fabian Clowes; IT Officer, Ms. Elizabeth Bourne; Tax Specialist, Mr. Samdavid Arron; ESERVICES Officer, Mr. Simmeon Kissoon; ESERVICES Officer, Mr. Roland Trotman; Tax Specialist, and Mr. Saisnarine Ramnarine facilitated the session. The workshop saw participants benefiting from valuable insights and demonstrations in areas including the PAYE submission process, the income tax returns procedures and the advantages of electronic filing, and the use of the recently launched PADNA app which facilitates easy submission and tracking of refunds.
• February 18: President of the GCCI, Mr. Kester Hutson attended the launch of the Mexico-Guyana Chamber of Commerce. There are now significant opportunities in Guyana for investors, and there have been a number of Mexican delegations that have visited Guyana. Remarks were also delivered by Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Mr. Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo and President of the Mexico-Guyana Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ricardo Magaña.
• February 21: Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith, and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the ABTA’s Director of Tourism for the Caribbean and Latin America, Mrs. Charmaine Browne-Spencer, and Head of Operations for ABTA, Ms. Anthea Watkins. The team’s visit to Guyana was aimed at promoting the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Market Place that is scheduled for May 2025 in Antigua. Discussions delved into benefits for Guyanese businesses in hospitality, travel, and trade; key tourism activities and collaboration activities; strengthening the business linkages between the two countries and connecting local tourism businesses to their counterparts in Antigua.
GCCI IN THE MEDIA
GCCI advocates for visa-free travel to Japan - March 1, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), on Wednesday, met with Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Naoki Saito, to discuss areas for collaboration and strengthening of trade relations, while also advocating for potential visa-free travel for Guyanese to Japan.
The meeting was attended by the President of GCCI, Kester Hutson and Junior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar, and was held at the GCCI Waterloo Street, Georgetown office.
According to information from GCCI, the executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Second Secretary Saito exchanged views on Guyana’s political and economic situation.
Private investigation firm from Trinidad sets up office in Guyana - March 5, 2024 – News Room
See full statement issued by the GCCI below:
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, on February 13 met with Mr. Inshan Salamut, Managing Director/Chief Investigator of Confidential Investigations Agency (Guyana) Incorporated, a private investigation firm that specialises in civil and criminal investigations, and security services.
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, the company recently opened its local branch noting a need for investigation services in Guyana given the massive rise of economic activity in the country.
Caribbean Investment Forum set for July in Georgetown - March 11, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
PREPARATIONS are underway for Guyana to host this year’s Caribbean Investment Forum which is expected to be held from July 10 to July 12 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. According to the official website, this year’s forum is set to focus on sustainable agriculture, green economy transition and the digitalisation of business. As such the forum has put out an official call for large projects with national or regional impact that requires large capital investments in these areas...Late last week, senior officials from CEDA also met with executives of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and discussed participation and collaboration.
Women in law enforcement praised for their ‘incredible strides’ March 12, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THE Guyana Police Force, in collaboration with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) Guyana, is hosting its 2nd Annual Women in Law Enforcement Summit 2024 at the Officers’ Training Centre, Eve Leary.
According to the police force, the summit, which opened on Monday, is being held under the theme, “Inspire Inclusion: Advancing Women in Enforcement”. The theme reflects a shared vision where diversity thrives and women are not only active participants but leaders in building safer and more secure communities.
Mayor, Private Sector to ‘revitalise’ Georgetown - March 15, 2024 – News Room
Several stakeholders on Thursday met with Georgetown Mayor, Alfred Mentore to discuss the revitalisation of the Capital City.
Representatives from the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Women’s Chamber of Commerce & Industry Guyana (WCGI), Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce Guyana (GCCI) attended the meeting at the Herdmanstan Lodge.
According a press release from THAG, avenues for collaboration and synergies in execution of sustainable strategies for the revitalisation of Georgetown were considered during the meeting and it was decided that several initiatives could improve the city’s state.
Despite challenges, GCCI earned $93.3M in 2023 - March 28, 2024 – News Room
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s revenue increased by three per cent, earning the Chamber a total of $93.3 million in 2023 amidst changes in the economic landscape. This was revealed in the GCCI’s 20232024 annual report.
The report noted that the GCCI “demonstrated resilience and growth” and that it’s surplus surged by 85.6% to G$7,957,475, showcasing strong financial management. The report credited the increase in revenue to “strong growth in membership subscriptions and magazine advertisements.”
However, there was a reported decline in event revenue due to the nonexecution of the Business Development Forum but diversified income sources were able to support overall growth.
Guyana’s oldest business organisation records increased membership, increased surplus cash - March 31, 2024 – Demerara Waves
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GGCI), Guyana’s oldest business organisation, has recorded 150 new members in the 2023-2024 financial year, and has recorded 85.6 percent in surplus cash, according to chamber President, Kester Hutson.
Mr Hutson told Demerara Waves Online News that that business support organisation has more than 1,000 members.
Kester Hutson re-elected President of GCCI - April 4, 2024 – News Room
A new Executive Management Committee (EMC) of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) was elected on April 3, 2024, with Mr. Kester Hutson being reelected as President of the Chamber.
The elected EMC comprises a President, Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
Mrs. Kathy Smith was elected as the Senior Vice President, Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar returned as the Junior Vice President, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George was elected as the new Secretary, and Mr. Brian Edwards was elected as the new Treasurer.
No disclosure yet on Guyana’s participation in Canton 2024 Spring Fair - April 5, 2024 – Stabroek News
Not a great deal has been heard from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) regarding the ‘potential participation’ of local businesses in the 135th Canton 2024 Spring Fair scheduled to be staged at the Canton Fair Complex, Guangzhou, China from April 15-19, though it would do both Guyana’s image and the image of the Chamber a power of good if Guyana were to make an appearance, even a modest one at one of the world’s biggest events of its kind. Representatives of the Chamber met on Wednesday March 5 with officials of the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown to discuss the potential participation of Guyanese businesses at the event.
Kester Hutson re-elected to serve as GCCI President - April 4, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
OWNER of Dapper Technology Inc., Kester Hutson, was re-elected president of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)’s Executive Management Committee (EMC), on Wednesday. The new members of the council were elected during the GCCI’s 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday. During this meeting, remarks were delivered by Ms. Lorena Solorzano Salazar, Guyana’s IDB Group Country Representative, and Hutson.
‘Cooperation instead of competition’ – T&T companies scouting investment opportunities in Guyana - April 25, 2024 – News Room
A total of 16 companies from the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago are currently in Guyana as part of a trade mission, scoping investment opportunities in the services, food and construction sectors.
During an opening session ahead of businessto-business engagements on Thursday, the companies were told to also look at opportunities in the agriculture, transport and logistics and ICT sectors...
High Commissioner of Trinidad to Guyana, Conrad Enill believes opportunities abound and can support the deepening of economic ties between the two countries...His sentiments were backed up by those of John Edghill, Senior Director of Investment and Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry...
“For too long we were competing where we should be cooperating,” Edghill said as he urged collaboration in the agriculture sector. Hutson acknowledged the unique opportunities foreign investors bring to the country and also noted the importance of collaboration...
GPL, GCCI ‘sit down’ on power woes evades timeline for end to protracted blackouts - April 26, 2024 - Stabroek News
Amidst heightening public concern over the erratic nature of the electricity supply in coastal Guyana, and relative muted but boisterous protest by domestic consumers and businesses alike, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) announced on Monday that its Petroleum Committee had facilitated a discussion forum on energy supply with head of the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL), Kesh Nandlall.
Nandlall, the GCCI’s Petroleum Committee, through its release, made no comment on the power company’s schedule for restoring the power situation to a circumstance that at least bears a resemblance of normalcy. The discussions, which convened on Monday, April 22, featured an interactive discussion between Nandlall and other officials from the power company, purportedly afforded the Chamber “an opportunity to learn more about GPL’s plans for the future given how the frequent power outages have been affecting the private sector’s ability to operate efficiently and at maximum capacity…”
Architectural companies join forces to offer solutions locally - April 30, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THROUGH a shared commitment to excellence and innovation, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) member HarpHard and Associates joins with Consort Architectural Hardware to enhance architectural solutions locally.
This collaboration between the businesses marks a significant milestone in expanding architectural offerings in Guyana.
Private sector heads condemn ‘divisive’, ‘ludicrous’ threats to businesses - May 1, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THE “divisive” and “ludicrous” attempts to punish innocent Guyanese-owned businesses for simply engaging President Dr. Irfaan Ali have been condemned by local private sector heads...President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Kester Hutson, in an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, labelled the call for a boycott “disruptive”, and maintained that it does not add value to the economy.
Guyanese stakeholders promote local investment opportunities at Offshore Technology Conference in Houston - May 7, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar is leading a delegation at the OTC in Houston, Texas where several Guyanese companies and government stakeholders are engaging energy professionals to promote investment in Guyana
MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar is leading a delegation at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas where several Guyanese companies and government stakeholders are engaging energy professionals to promote investment in Guyana.
Indar leading Guyana delegation at Offshore Tech Conference in Houston - May 7, 2024 – Stabroek News
Minister in the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar is leading a delegation at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas where several Guyanese companies and Government stakeholders are engaging energy professionals to promote investment here.
A release from the Ministry of Public Works said that members of the delegation include Chief Investment Officer, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop; President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kester Hutson; President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, Manniram Prashad; President of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rowena Elliot; representatives of the GuyanaSuriname Chamber of Commerce and Industry and GCCI’s Richard Rambarran, among others.
During the course of its participation in the May 6th-9th Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) currently in Houston, Texas, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) sought to broaden its knowledge of the sector by engaging representatives of the various organizations with a significant interest in the oil and gas industry which were also represented at the forum. One such entity was MODEC, one of the world’s leading providers of floating production solutions for the oil and gas sector.
A delegation of more than 50 Guyanese attending the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas on Monday toured the facilities of US-based consortium, Lindsayca-CH4 (LNDCH4). Representatives of the business community in Guyana under the leadership of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), along with the US Embassy, the Private Sector Commission, and other stakeholders, met with the senior leadership of LNDCH4 which included Mr. Nelson Drake, Mr. Hector Fuentes, and Mr. Juan Bellosta.
Guyanese delegation in Houston for OTC tours Lindsayca- May 9, 2024 - Stabroek News
GCCI officials meet Tech giant MODEC reps at Texas O&G Event - May 17, 2024 - Stabroek News
Rejection of DDL’s milk part of ‘notoriously long list’ of trade issues with Trinidad- G/town Chamber
- May 15, 2024 – News Room
See below the full statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI):
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) notes, with strong consternation, the attempts by Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) to frustrate the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL’s) export of milk and water. This attempt and outright blockage of goods is yet another addition to a notoriously long list of on-going issues which the GCCI has been on public record about. Thus, this latest incident only bolsters the case which the GCCI has highlighted in the past regarding the attitude and disposition of Trinidad & Tobago to Guyana.
GCCI condemns T&T trade barriers against Guyanese exports - May 16, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has expressed strong consternation over recent actions by Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) that have hindered Demerara Distillers Limited’s (DDL) export of milk and water. This latest obstruction adds to a long-standing series of trade issues that have plagued the relationship between the two nations, further highlighting T&T’s antagonistic stance towards Guyana...
GCCI, GSMA condemn T&T refusal of entry of Guyanese products
- May 16, 2024 - Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has expressed strong disapproval over Trinidad & Tobago’s recent actions to obstruct the export of milk and water by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), one of Guyana’s largest manufacturers.
Guyanese stakeholders promote local investment opportunities at Offshore Technology Conference in Houston
- May 7, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar is leading a delegation at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas where several Guyanese companies and government stakeholders are engaging energy professionals to promote investment in Guyana.
Members of the delegation include Chief Investment Officer, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop; President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kester Hudson; President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), Manniram Prashad; President of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rowena Elliot; representatives of the Guyana-Suriname Chamber of Commerce and Industry and GCCI’s Richard Rambarran, among others.
GCCI officials meet Tech giant MODEC reps at Texas O&G Event - May 17, 2024 – Stabroek News
During the course of its participation in the May 6th-9th Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) currently in Houston, Texas, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) sought to broaden its knowledge of the sector by engaging representatives of the various organizations with a significant interest in the oil and gas industry which were also represented at the forum. One such entity was MODEC, one of the world’s leading providers of floating production solutions for the oil and gas sector.
Private sector awaiting findings of probe into complaint about Chinese businesses
- June 20, 2024 - Stabroek News
The Private Sector Commission (PSC) is awaiting the findings of a complaint lodged by a number of local business persons to President Irfaan Ali about the proliferation of establishments across the country by non-naturalised Chinese persons with seeming lack of regulatory certificates and licences... Some of the business persons that subscribed to the letter are a part of the Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA)...President of the GCCI, Kester Hutson, told this newspaper that they became aware of the situation following the Stabroek News article and have put the issue on their agenda...
Pressure for responsible road use by heavy duty vehicles can come from the private sector itself
- May 31, 2024 - Stabroek News
Irresponsible road use and the various negative consequences of the phenomenon, coupled with the failure of the authorities to match what now appears to be the most serious challenge ever to safety on our roads, has recently attracted a pointed public statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry [GCCI], ‘calling out’ the authorities on what it sees as a heightened regime of lawlessness in the country’s road use culture and particularly “the inadequate management of road usage by heavy duty trucks.” What the GCCI says is its “deep consternation and outrage” regarding what it sees as “lack of action against reckless truck drivers” rightly point’s fingers at “the authorities” which one takes to mean the traffic management authorities...
Private sector says still pursuing complaints over Chinese businesses
- July 15, 2024 – Stabroek News
The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry say they are still actively addressing the concerns raised by local businesses regarding unfair competition from Chineseowned businesses and plan to soon meet with local regulatory agencies and Beijing’s Ambassador.
“From the Chamber’s standpoint, it is to engage with the Chinese Embassy, the Ambassador and her team and indicate some of our concerns and more so advocating for more compliance among Chinese businesses.,” GCCI President Kester Huston told Stabroek News when contacted last week.
GSA students, farmers, agro-processors urged to innovate, adapt - July 17, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
ENTREPRENEURSHIP and business development are crucial elements in the agriculture sector, and to ensure local farmers, agro-processors and budding agriculturists are fully equipped with the tools needed to thrive, the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held a capacity-building session on Tuesday.
Students from the GSA were engaged in interactive discussions during Tuesday’s session
Engaging stakeholders, GSA’s Chief Executive Officer Gavin Ramnarain emphasised the importance of fostering entrepreneurial spirit, and creating opportunities in production.
GCCI supports Police crackdown on illegal sirens and emergency lights - July 20, 2024 – Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Friday said that it firmly supports the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) campaign against the use of illegal sirens and emergency lights by unauthroised persons.
In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce said it supports the “campaign launched by Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh against the use of illegal sirens and emergency lights by unauthorised persons.
GCCI supports Traffic Chief’s campaign against illegal sirens, emergency lights - July 20, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed strong support for the campaign initiated by Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, aimed at curbing the use of illegal sirens and emergency lights by unauthorised individuals.
Emergency lights and sirens are designated exclusively for the Guyana Fire Service, the Guyana Police Force, and ambulances. However, there has been a recent surge in private vehicles utilising this equipment to bypass congested traffic areas. These unauthorised actions not only violate the law but also pose significant risks to road users, potentially causing confusion and accidents, particularly when operated by drivers lacking defensive driving training.
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce objects to police force solely investigating itself for corruption - July 22, 2024 – Demerara Waves
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Monday registered its concern that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) was investigating alleged corruption in that law enforcement agency, and recommended that other agencies be involved in an independent probe.
GCCI President, Kester Hutson told Demerara Waves Online News that in addition to the Police Service Commission, government and civil society “should establish a special committee to probe” allegations of a “high level of corruption and financial impropriety” in the police force. He said the Police Force’s Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Financial Intelligence Unit and other agencies should be part of the probe.
Chamber of Commerce calls for independent probe into Corruption in Guyana Police Force - July 22, 2024 – News Source
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry has issued a call for an independent probe into allegations of corruption and financial impropriety within the Guyana Police Force.
In a statement this afternoon, the GCCI said it has grown increasingly concerned over recent revelations of the high level of corruption and financial impropriety within the Police Force, and it wants an immediate independent investigation.
GCCI calls for independent probe into corruption in Police Force - July 23, 2024 - Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Monday called for an independent investigation into the allegations of corruption and financial impropriety in the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
In a statement to the media, the GCCI said that it is repugnant that the officers who are empowered to maintain law and order are engaging in malpractices. The body said too that such allegations bring into question the Force’s credibility and objectivity.
“If the agents of the state who are responsible for maintaining stability and lawfulness are engaged in malfeasance, then they can no longer be trusted to uphold the standards that they ought to be enforcing,” GCCI said in the statement
GCCI calls for independent probe into allegations of financial irregularities in Police Force - July 23, 2024 – News Room
See below full statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI):
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has grown increasingly concerned over recent revelations of a high level of corruption and financial impropriety within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and calls for an immediate independent investigation.
As the body responsible for upholding and enforcing the laws of Guyana, it is repugnant that the very individuals who have been empowered to maintain law and order in the country are engaging in malpractices, which brings to fore questions of the GPF’s credibility and objectivity.
Letter: Hicken should proceed on leave to allow for an independent investigation
- July 30, 2024 - Kaieteur News
Dear Editor,
I would like to respond to Mr. Joel Bhagwandin’s letter in the Stabroek News, ‘Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s statement into allegations of police corruption might have been premature’ published in the Stabroek News on July 25, 2024. It was refreshing to see the statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) calling for an independent probe into corruption in the Police Force...
GCCI, PSC see image of GPF through different lenses
- August 2, 2024 - Stabroek News
In a week when there appeared to be no relenting in public criticism of aspects of the modus operandi of the Guyana Police Force (GFF), the country’s two leading private sector business organizations, the Private Sector Commission and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) appeared to be on diametrically opposite sides on the issue of aspects of policing, not least the seeming operational anomalies in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the importance of credible investigations into key aspects of its adherence to its ‘Service And Protection’ motto..
Minister Indar engages private sector on commercial waste
- August 3, 2024 – Guyana Chronicle
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar engaged stakeholders of the private sector on Friday IN anticipation of an upcoming national cleanup initiative, Minister Deodat Indar from the Ministry of Public Works held discussions with private sector stakeholders regarding the proper disposal of industrial and commercial waste.
Indar, who is chairman of the National Enhancement Committee, met with representatives of the Private Sector Commission, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association and the Chinese Association of Guyana on disposal of waste.
City Chamber against 2AM curfew; calls for stronger enforcement of traffic laws - August 3, 2024 – News Room
See below the full statement from the GCCI:
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has noted with concern the recent call by former Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, advocating for the re-institution of the 02:00hrs curfew as a solution to the alarming rise in road fatalities.
The Chamber firmly opposes this recommendation and urges a more effective and evidence-based approach to addressing road safety. There is no evidence to support its efficacy in reducing road fatalities. Re-imposing such a curfew would not only be misguided but would also have detrimental effects by hindering economic recovery and growth.
Ramjattan’s suggestion to restrict the free movement of the public is a simplistic and ineffective approach - August 4, 2024 - Kaieteur News
Dear Editor,
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has noted with concern the recent call by former Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, advocating for the re-institution of the 02:00hrs curfew as a solution to the alarming rise in road fatalities.The Chamber firmly opposes this recommendation and urges a more effective and evidence-based approach to addressing road safety
GCCI against reintroduction of 2 A.M. curfew
- August 4, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed strong opposition to a recent proposal by former Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, who has called for the re-institution of the 2 A.M. curfew as a means to combat the rising number of road fatalities.
The Chamber has criticised the curfew suggestion, deeming it a misguided approach that could negatively impact the country’s economic recovery and growth
Georgetown Chamber opposed to curfew
- August 4, 2024 - Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has voiced its concern about the recent suggestion by former Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan that the 02:00 hours curfew be reinstituted as a solution to the rise in road fatalities.
In a release yesterday, the Chamber stated its “firm opposition” to this recommendation and urged that a more effective and evidencebased approach be made to addressing road safety, citing a lack of empirical evidence. “There is no evidence to support its efficacy in reducing road fatalities. Re-imposing such a curfew would not only be misguided but would also have detrimental effects by hindering economic recovery and growth.”
GCCI participates in WUSC Multistakeholder Forum
- August 16, 2024- Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has been resolute in its commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture in Guyana and building the capacity of local farmers through collaborative outreaches.
Today, August 14, the Chamber participated in a Multistakeholder Forum on Sustaining Women, Youth, and Marginalised Male Farmers’ Participation in Agricultural Markets, that was hosted as part of the Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by World University Service of Canada.
Chairperson of the GCCI Agriculture Committee, Mr. Brian Edwards, and Vice Chairperson of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Ms. Natasha Waddle participated in the Forum that was held at the Grand Coastal Hotel...
Ten students from Camille’s Academy are benefiting from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) Annual ‘Teenternship’ Programme 2024, which is aimed at providing them with practical experiences in the working environment in relation to leadership, teamwork, communication, problemsolving, and management.
The fourth form students underwent their orientation to the programme on Friday, August 16, at the GCCI, where they were assigned to work with several businesses including Guyana Payroll Solutions Incorporated, Rafeek and Moore Customs Brokerage Firm and Logistics Incorporated, Raj Singh Insurance Brokers and Risk Management Consultants Incorporated, Guyana Electric Incorporated, Java Coffee Bar and Bistro, ActionInvest Caribbean Incorporated, Cerulean Incorporated, Technip FMC, and Beharry Automotive Limited.
GCCI against reintroduction of 2 A.M. curfew - August 4, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
Ten students benefit from GCCI’s annual ‘Teenternship’ Programme 2024
- August 18, 2024 - Kaieteur News
Ten students from Camille’s Academy benefit from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) 2024 ‘Teenternship’ programme.
The programme is aimed at providing youths with experiences in the working environment exposing them to leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and management. The orientation of the Program was conducted on Friday at GCCI’s office located on Waterloo Street, Georgetown...
GCCI to sign strategic partnership agreement with China’s Hunan Trade Council
- September 4, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is poised to sign an agreement with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Hunan Sub-Council in the coming days. This agreement aims to establish a Friendly Co-operation Relationship, focusing on enhancing exchanges and co-operation in the areas of economy, technology, culture, and investment.
The forthcoming agreement is a result of the GCCI’s participation in a seminar at the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) in Changping District, Beijing, China. A delegation from the GCCI, including its President, Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Brian Edwards; Councillor, Delmar Walcott; and Trade and Investment Consultant, Jessica Campbell, is attending the two-week seminar...
GCCI, London Chamber of Commerce discuss revitalising trade relations
- September 26, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is continuing to strengthen its international partnerships, with recent efforts focused on reviving a long-standing collaboration with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). This initiative is aimed at fostering stronger trade and investment ties between Guyana and the United Kingdom.
The relationship between the two chambers dates back to 1996 when a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to promote bilateral trade. In a bid to reignite the agreement, a delegation from the GCCI, including Councillor and Executive Member, Timothy Tucker, Councillor Rayad Boyce, and Member Ian Dhanraj, recently met with LCCI’s Head of International, Marta Kozlowska and other senior officials.
The LCCI, representing over 9,000 members, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, is one of the UK’s leading business networks. During the meeting, Timothy Tucker updated the LCCI officials on the growth and development of the GCCI over the years, advocating for closer collaboration to create business opportunities for members of both organisations
‘We should not become second class citizens in our own country in our own country’ – Former GCCI President
- October 04, 2024 – Kaieteur News
Former President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Timothy Tucker has called for stronger protections for local small businesses against foreign competition, asserting that “we do not want to become second-class citizens in our own country.”
His comments come in the wake of recent protests by residents and vendors of Agricola against the establishment and operation of Chinese supermarkets in their community.
Oil and Gas Sector: GCCI hosts inaugural energy luncheon to boost local business participation
- September 28, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
As opportunities in Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas industry continue to grow, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) brought together industry leaders and local entrepreneurs on Thursday for its inaugural Energy Luncheon. The event, organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee, focused on unlocking prospects for local businesses within the lucrative sector.
Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President of the GCCI and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, highlighted the Chamber’s role in facilitating these vital conversations. She noted that the discovery of significant oil reserves has created new pathways for economic growth, jobs, and development in Guyana. However, she cautioned that the industry’s growth must be balanced with environmental sustainability and social responsibility
Private sector could consider ‘matching’ govt’s $100,000 minimum salary - October 11, 2024 – News Room
The local private sector could consider raising its payments to workers following President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s announcement on Thursday that all public sector workers would earn no less than $100,000 monthly from 2025. The President made this announcement on Thursday as he addressed the 12th Parliament of Guyana, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Georgetown.
Private sector representatives were among those who gathered at the conference centre for the President’s address. Some of those representatives shared their reactions to the bold interventions announced by the President soon after his address....
Meanwhile, the President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Kester Huston said raising the minimum wage is something that can be seriously considered with the right incentives. “We’re hoping that we can match that.
“The private sector operates different from the public sector. We’re expecting to have some incentives in doing business as a private sector to really accommodate that,” he said. As consideration is given to possibly raising the minimum wage in the private sector, Hutson said the President would be engaged on incentives that can be provided.
GCCI announced Junior Stock Exchange Market to be developed for Guyana
- October 11, 2024 – News Room
See below full statement from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI):
The second Regional Investments and Capital Markets Conference in Guyana came to a close on Wednesday, October 9, and among the information shared was an announcement by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) that it is collaborating with the Jamaica Stock Exchange on the development of a Junior Stock Exchange in Guyana.
President of the GCCI, Kester Hutson participated in a panel discussion on ‘the Private Sector’s role in promoting sustainable wealth creation and prosperity’ during which he made the announcement.
GCCI applauds Pres. Ali’s bold economic and social policy announcements
- October 11, 2024 – News Room
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has lauded the recent economic and social policies announced by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, highlighting its potential positive impact on both citizen welfare and the broader economy. Speaking on Thursday in Parliament, President Ali unveiled a series of interventions aimed at promoting economic growth, reducing income inequality, and improving employment prospects.
The GCCI, in response, praised the government’s focus on aligning economic development with human development and social inclusivity, noting that these policies will likely inject substantial disposable income into households and drive greater economic activity across the country.
GCCI encouraged by government’s bold steps towards economic expansion, social equity - October 12, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has commended President Dr. Irfaan Ali and the Government of Guyana for the recent announcement of significant economic and social interventions.
These newly unveiled social policies prioritise citizen welfare, which the GCCI believes will have a positive ripple effect on the economy.By injecting substantial disposable income into households, these measures aim to reduce income inequality, enhance employment opportunities, and bolster manufacturing prospects across the nation...
City chamber commends gov’t on planned social, economic interventions
- October 13, 2024 - Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in a release on Friday commended President Irfaan Ali and his government on the economic and social interventions announced in a speech on Thursday, October 10.
The GCCI views these social policies as reflective of keen focus on citizen welfare, which in turn can yield positive economic impacts through the injection of a significant amount of disposable income into households, reduction in income inequality, and increased employment opportunities and manufacturing prospects in the country. It pointed out that by the middle of this year, Guyana had recorded an economic growth rate of 49.7 per cent, and lauded the government’s focus on aligning this economic development with human development, social inclusivity, and improved standard of living
Jamaica Stock Exchange, City Chamber to sign MoU - October 15, 2024 - Stabroek News
The Jamaica Stock Exchange and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) are to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) before the end of the year which could aid in the establishment of a vibrant stock market.
This is one of the outcomes of the now annual conference hosted by the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) which was in Guyana for the second time from October 8 to 9 this month
Chamber of Commerce calls for more training opportunities to address labour shortage
- October 16, 2024 – News Source
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry has proposed the expansion of training opportunities available to Guyanese to address the issue of labour shortage in the country.
In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce said having recognize that the country continues to grapple with a labour shortage, while navigating the need for a stronger Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) culture, it is continuing its efforts to address those issues, particularly through collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
Earlier this week, the private sector organization led a team to meet with the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton and other officials from the Labour Ministry to see how best the two sides can work together to address the issues.
need cybersecurity, AI training – PM - October 24, 2024 – News Room
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips believes that more Guyanese should be trained in cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help protect themselves and the country from emerging threats. The Prime Minister, who is performing the duties of President, spoke at a technology conference sponsored by DynamIQ on Thursday...
The conference was organised by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) in collaboration with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI). It was held at the Pegasus Hotel, Corporate Suites in Kingston, Georgetown.
More Guyanese
GCCI empowers farmers in Region Two with agricultural capacity-building workshop
- October 31, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted an ‘Agriculture Capacity Building Workshop’ recently at the Regional Democratic Council boardroom at Anna Regina, Region Two.’
Over 20 local farmers attended the session, which focused on practical strategies and skills to elevate farming practices and boost agricultural success. The workshop covered essential topics, including “Farming as a Business,” “Access to Finance,” “Access to Markets,” “Good Agricultural Practices,” “Climate-Smart Innovations,” and “The Importance of Nutrients in Agriculture.”
GCCI’s initiative aligns with Guyana’s goal of establishing itself as the Caribbean’s agricultural breadbasket and supporting the region’s aim to reduce its food- import bill by 25% by 2025
Take wide-ranging actions against supermarkets, retailers – GCCI
- November 2, 2024 – Demerara Waves
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Saturday called on several government agencies to take action against retailers and supermarkets for selling poor quality goods and ensure that all tax laws and labour standards are applied equally.
G/town chamber flags issues with substandard goods, businesses flouting labour & tax laws
- November 2, 2024 – News Room
See below the full release from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI):
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has grown increasingly concerned by the practice of non-compliance to Guyana’s laws and regulations by retailers and supermarkets— particularly as it relates to the quality and standards of goods being provided to consumers and the flouting of labour and tax laws.
Chamber complains of counterfeit expired goods being sold in Guyana
- November 4, 2024 – Caribbean Loop News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) says it has noted an increase in the number of counterfeit, expired and inappropriately labelled goods being sold here and is worried about the non-compliance of the laws and regulations by retailers and supermarket owners.
In a statement, the GCCI called on the Bureau of Standards and the Analyst Food and Drug Department to ensure that an investigation is conducted and products found to be in contravention of the laws and regulations removed from the shelves and prohibited from sale.
Chamber of Commerce calls for urgent action against counterfeit and expired goods on the market
- November 4, 2024 – News Source
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry has noted an increase in the number of counterfeit, expired and inappropriately labelled goods in the market place, and is also worried about the non-compliance to Guyana’s laws and regulations by retailers and supermarket owners.
In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce issued a call on the Bureau of Standards and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department to ensure that an investigation is conducted and products found to be in contravention of the laws and regulations removed from the shelves and prohibited from sale...
‘Stick to it’ – Finance Minister reassures UK trade delegation Guyana open for business - November 11, 2024 – News Room
As Guyana undergoes rapid development, the need for foreign investors is great. Even so, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh encouraged a visiting United Kingdom (UK) delegation to persistently pursue new ventures in the tiny South American nation...
The British High Commission in collaboration with the Caribbean Council, the British Chamber of Commerce (Britcham), and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry is hosting this UK trade delegation.
City chamber concerned at counterfeit, expired goods on market - November 4, 2024 - Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Saturday said that it has grown increasingly concerned by the non-compliance with Guyana’s laws and regulations by retailers and supermarkets— particularly as it relates to quality and standards of goods being provided to consumers and the flouting of labour and tax laws.
“There has been an alarming increase in the presence of counterfeit, expired, and inappropriately labelled goods in the market, which are not only clear violations of lawful standards but also a health hazard to consumers. The Chamber is issuing a call to the Bureau of Standards and the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department to ensure that an investigation is conducted and any product that is not within the guidelines be removed from shelves and prohibited for sale”, the Chamber said.
GCCI President encourages Finnish businesses to invest in Guyana
- November 6, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
In a bid to foster stronger bilateral ties, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Mr. Kester Hutson, called on the visiting Finnish business delegation to explore opportunities for partnership with local companies.
Hutson’s remarks came during the “Guyana-Finland: Partnerships for a Sustainable Future” seminar held on Tuesday at the Guyana Marriott, organised by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
Addressing the seminar’s attendees, Hutson highlighted the success of past joint ventures between local and foreign companies, emphasising that Guyana offers a wealth of opportunities for investment. “You come with the capital, you come with the expertise, and we will support you to grow your business,” Hutson stated. He pointed to sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and health as key areas ripe for collaboration and investment
GCCI explores innovative financing to overcome business growth barriers
- November 15, 2024 – News Room
With access to finance identified as the leading barrier to business growth in Guyana and the wider region, Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), announced on Thursday that innovative financing options are being explored to tackle this challenge.
Speaking at the launch of the fourth edition of the GCCI’s Business Development Forum on Thursday, Hutson revealed that one of the initiatives under consideration is the creation of a junior market, facilitated by an anticipated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jamaica Stock Exchange.
Venezuela targets Guyana in “orchestrated” cyber operations – defence official - November 16, 2024 - Demerara Waves
Venezuela was engaged in a variety of orchestrated cyber operations targeting Guyana, according to Assistant Director of the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) National Defence Institute (NDI), Dr. Seon Levius. The NDI said in a statement that in a hard-hitting exposé on Venezuela’s orchestrated cyber operations targeting Guyana, Dr Levius unveiled the faces, names, and organisations behind the malicious campaign to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty over the Essequibo region...
President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kester Hutson, praised President Ali’s visionary leadership in establishing the NDI and emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for Guyana’s private sector. “As the fastest-growing economy in the world, Guyana must lead in cybersecurity innovation to protect its economic future,” he stated.
UK Trade Mission wraps up visit - November 15, 2024 – Stabroek News
As the United Kingdom Trade Mission wrapped up its visit here, members of the delegation met with Councillors of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 13 at a networking event at Palm Court.
A release from the GCCi said that the event was organised by the Caribbean Council and saw representatives of the 20 UK businesses meeting with the GCCI Councillors including President, Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Brian Edwards; Councillor and Executive Member, Richard Rambarran, as well as Councillors—. Mary Nagasar, Komal Ramnauth, Keon Howard, Dr. Rosh Khan, Delmar Walcott, Navin Prashad, and Devon Seeram.
GCCI calls for stronger enforcement of traffic laws
- November 19, 2024 – News Room
See below full release from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry:
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has grown increasingly concerned about the growing number of road fatalities as a result of reckless usage of the country’s roadways, and is urging the Guyana Police Force to implement stronger enforcement of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act. Furthermore, the Chamber is calling on the Government of Guyana to revise the system of penalties to implement stricter consequences for breach of traffic laws.
Minister Indar updates GCCI on nation’s infrastructure development projects
- November 21, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, engaged members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Wednesday to provide updates on Guyana’s extensive infrastructure development initiatives. The meeting, organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee and chaired by Senior Vice President Kathy Smith, took place in the GCCI boardroom.
During his presentation, Minister Indar highlighted various aspects of ongoing and upcoming projects, including general infrastructure, energy systems, aviation facilities, transportation networks, the procurement system, oil and gas infrastructure, and government spending on development...
Farmers learn best practices at men’s health, agriculture workshop
- November 21, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
Over 50 farmers from Region Three participated in a Men’s Health and Agriculture Awareness Workshop on Tuesday, where they were engaged on best practices in pesticide usage and the importance of safeguarding their health.
The workshop, held in the boardroom of the Regional Education Office in Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara, was a collaborative effort by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), World University Services of Canada (WUSC), the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), and the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB). Funding for the event was provided by Global Affairs Canada.
Georgetown Chamber engages French entity EVOLEN on investment openings here
- November 29, 2024 – Stabroek News
With Guyana’s now globally known oil and gas sector continuing to attract the attention of governments and private sector entities scouting investment opportunities in the sector, the incentive to ‘seek out’ such opportunities now extends across continents with visiting delegations enthusiastically expressing interest in establishing business relations with the country across a broad swathe of sectors, some of these even outside the oil and gas sector.
Recently, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) released information on its engagement with a delegation from a French entity, EVOLEN, an association of French energy companies and professionals on issues that included the visitors’ “scouting opportunities in Guyana” according to a release issued by the Chamber earlier this week.
Georgetown Chamber engages Brazilian delegation on a plethora of business issues - November 29, 2024 – Stabroek News
Currently in the process of enhancing its trade/ business relations regionally and internationally to complement its rapidly increasing profile realized on account of Guyana’s new-found status as a major global oil producer, the Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is preoccupied with, among other things, the strengthening of business ties, including trade partnerships, not least with countries in the hemisphere. On Thursday November 21, the GCCI met with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Agency, APEXBrazil, to discuss the further strengthening of trade partnerships between the two countries.
GCCI welcomes new members at President’s Reception - December 3, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) hosted its President’s Reception on November 29, creating a platform for recently registered members to network and gain deeper insights into the chamber’s roles and benefits. The event, which targeted members who joined between April and November, aimed to foster integration and ensure that participants fully utilise the opportunities associated with GCCI membership.
Organised by the Membership and Diversity Committee alongside the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, the reception took place in the GCCI’s boardroom. The event was graced by several councillors, including executive members such as President Mr. Kester Huston, Senior Vice President Mrs. Kathy Smith, Treasurer Mr. Brian Edwards, Secretary Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and executive members Mr. Richard Rambarran and Mr. Timothy Tucker.
Chinese Embassy in seminar with business community - December 1, 2024 – Stabroek News
On 27 November 2024, the Chinese Embassy in Guyana convened a seminar themed ‘Stable Development of China’s Economy and The Prospects of Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Guyana’.
A release from the Chinese Embassy said that more than 30 attendees including Presidents and other representatives from the Private Sector Commission of Guyana (PSC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), and the Senior Director of Guyana Office for Investment (G-Invest) participated in the event.
Guyana Chronicle cops GCCI’s 2024 Media Award - December 13, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Guyana Chronicle copped the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President’s Media Award on Thursday evening. The award celebrates the publication’s consistent coverage of GCCI news and unwavering support for the chamber’s initiatives, as well as excellence in journalism. Editor-in-Chief Navendra Seoraj accepted the award on behalf of the Chronicle.
GCCI partners with Canadian organisation to develop ‘micro’, women entrepreneur learning centre - December 31, 2024 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has announced that it has partnered with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC), with funding from Global Affairs Canada, to develop a groundbreaking Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre in Georgetown, housed at the GCCI’s Secretariat.
According to a press release from GCCI, the centre is anticipated to be completed and operationalised by the second quarter of 2025.
Over the last two-and-a-half years, the GCCI has been collaborating with WUSC to undertake capacity-building projects with farmers across the country through outreaches.
Budget 2025 a ‘vehicle for continued growth, development’ – G/town Chamber
- January 23, 2025 – News Room
See below full statement issued by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI):
Guyana on the presentation of the $1.382 trillion 2025 National Budget under the theme ‘A Secure, Prosperous, and Sustainable Guyana’—which was notably an increase of 20.6 percent from the 2024 National Budget, with no new taxes.
GCCI, World University Services of Canada to develop entrepreneur learning centre here - January 3, 2025 -Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with the World University Services of Canada (WUSC) are developing a Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre that is expected to be completed completed and operationalised by the second quarter of this year, a GCCI release stated on Tuesday.
GCCI praises Budget 2025 for $5k increase in old-age pension, investment in agriculture, infrastructure
- January 24, 2025 – Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Thursday applauded the Government of Guyana (GoG) on the presentation of the 2025 Budget, set at $1.382 trillion, an increase of 20.6% compared with Budget 2024.
The National Budget was presented on January 17, by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh under the theme ‘A Secure, Prosperous, and Sustainable Guyana’
The Chamber said that as Guyana’s development continues on an upward trajectory, it is pleased with the projected growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 10.6% for 2025, coupled with the anticipated 13.8% growth in the non-oil economy this year. These projections are expected to allow Guyana to remain the world’s third fastest growing economy it said.
GCCI pleased with Budget 2025 - January 24, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The following is the full statement issued by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Thursday:
“The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) extends congratulations to the Government of Guyana on the presentation of the $1.382 trillion 2025 National Budget under the theme ‘A Secure, Prosperous, and Sustainable Guyana’—which was notably an increase of 20.6 per cent from the 2024 National Budget, with no new taxes...
GCCI chides NIS over slow operations, calls for urgent reforms - February 01, 2025 - Kaieteur News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has called out the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) over the “slow pace of conducting business” in a rapidly emerging economy.
The organisation, in a statement issued on Friday, expressed frustration with NIS’s operations and called for a review of the feasibility of the systems utilized by the Scheme
Georgetown Chamber bemoans ‘high level of inefficiency’ of NIS - February 2, 2025 - Stabroek News
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed its consternation and dissatisfaction with what is sees as the high level of inefficiency in the operations of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
In a release on Friday, GCCI disclosed that it continues to receive complaints from members of the business community, as well as individuals registered with NIS, over the slow pace of conducting business with the agency, inefficiency in administering services, as well as the Scheme’s failure to transition to a digitised system that would allow for timely and convenient transactions.
Georgetown Chamber bemoans ‘high level of inefficiency’ of NISNIS disappointed and surprised at article claiming GCCI is dissatisfied with inefficiency at the Scheme - February 3, 2025 - Stabroek News
Dear Editor, The National Insurance Scheme has noted with concern the statement issued by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry “GCCI dissatisfied with inefficiency at NIS” carried by Stabroek News dated Sunday, February 2, 2025. The Scheme wishes to state the following:
(1) That it is surprised and disappointed by the statement published by GCCI since over the years NIS and Chamber have shared a good professional relationship which have led to us engaging in several educational activities such as seminars, meetings, conferences etc., with both the officials and members of the chambers
NIS disappointed by GCCI’s public complaints, calls for meeting to address concerns - February 04, 2025 - Kaieteur News
The National Insurance Scheme, which was recently criticised by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) for its operations, expressed disappointment that the Chamber chose to make a public statement rather than addressing these challenges through a meeting.
This is according to a letter sent to Kaieteur News on Monday by NIS’s Public Relations Officer, Diane Baxter. NIS said it is surprised and disappointed by the statement published by GCCI since over the years NIS and Chamber have shared a good professional relationship which have led to them engaging in several educational activities such as seminars, meetings, conferences among other things.
NIS decries ‘inefficient’ label in private sector statement - February 3, 2025 - Stabroek News
In the wake of stern criticisms from the private sector about its operations, the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) yesterday responded that it was shocked and disappointed at not being contacted before the public airing. NIS also requested an urgent meeting with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to address the issues highlighted, saying the chamber’s public expression of its disquiet posed the potential to tarnish the NIS’ good name..
GCCI intervention did not lead to mental health support for Mahdia fire survivors - February 4, 2025 - Stabroek News
More than a year after the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) facilitated a psychological assessment for the survivors of the tragic Mahdia dormitory fire in 2023, those affected say that no further action has been taken.
The psychological evaluations, which were part of an effort to support 45 survivors from Mahdia and Micobie, were completed in late 2023. The GCCI confirmed to Stabroek News that the evaluations were shared with President Irfaan Ali, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud, and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson. However, survivors and grieving families say they are still waiting for support or further developments.
GCCI collaborates with MODEC to host Vendor Forum - February 7, 2025 - Stabroek News
In keeping with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI objective of ensuring that local companies benefit from the oil and gas sector through information sharing and capacity building, a MODEC Vendor Forum was hosted on February 5 through a collaborative effort between the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee and the company...
NIS, GCCI discuss challenges affecting business community - February 8, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged in discussions on February 6, 2025, to address ongoing challenges faced by the business community in accessing NIS services.
The meeting, which was led by NIS General Manager, Ms. Holly Greaves and members of the GCCI Council, focused on key concerns affecting businesses.
Among the issues raised were delays in the timely disbursement of benefits, prolonged processing times for compliance certificates and claims, as well as gaps in communication between businesses and the NIS. The Chamber presented a detailed report outlining the challenges experienced by its membership, emphasising the need for improved efficiency and responsiveness in service delivery
City chamber, NIS in meeting on challenges - February 9, 2025 - Stabroek News
A team from the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) led by General Manager, Holly Greaves and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Council met on Thursday to discuss the challenges being experienced by the business community as it relates to accessing the services of the NIS.
A joint statement from the meeting said that among the areas discussed were concerns over the lack of timely disbursements, delays in the issuance of compliance certificates as well as processing of claims, and issues with communication. The Chamber also supplied NIS with a report on the challenges raised by its membership, the statement said.
GCCI seeks stronger business ties with Belize
- February 13, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has signalled its interest in fostering a strategic partnership with business support organisations in Belize to enhance trade and economic collaboration between the two nations.
This commitment was expressed by GCCI Executive Member and Councillor, Mr. Richard Rambarran, during the First Meeting of the Joint Commission on Renewed and Enhanced Cooperation between Guyana and Belize on February 10. The meeting, held at the Ramphal House Conference Room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, served as a platform for stakeholders from both countries to explore areas for economic synergy
Condemnation grows over incorrect display of map at Suriname conference - February 11, 2025 - Stabroek News
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, the Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) have all condemned the displaying of an incorrect map showing Guyana’s New River Triangle as part of Suriname at a recent Inter-national Business Conference (IBC) in Paramaribo.
The GCCI also expressed strong disapproval in a press release yesterday, condemning the use of inaccurate maps at the conference and criticizing the lack of objection from involved parties. The GCCI’s statement noted the significance of rejecting any actions that undermine Guyana’s sovereignty and called for solidarity among business organizations against such violations...
Guyana, Belize execute ‘think in’ to explore possible deepened business interests in the oil and gas era - February 14, 2025 - Stabroek News
With local Business Support Organizations (BSOs) now evincing an enhanced interest in broadening the base of its agenda to take account of its expanded interests in the oil and gas era, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) disclosed recently that it has an interest in cementing ties with the private sector in Belize through the requisite BSOs in that country.
The development is reflective of an awareness on the part of one of this country’s more strategically important local organizations responsible for supporting the local business community and of its need to step up its pursuits, both locally and outside of Guyana, to help promote Guyana’s legitimate business and entrepreneurial interests at a juncture where the country’s now ‘unveiled’ oil and gas resources add new issues to the agenda of the country’s BSOs...
GCCI and Go-Invest lead Guyana’s participation at Offshore Technology Conference 2025
- February 15, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with the Guyana Office for Investment (GoInvest), is spearheading Guyana’s participation in the 56th annual Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), scheduled for May 5th to 8th, 2025, at NRG Park in Houston, Texas, USA.
The Offshore Technology Conference is a premier event that convenes energy professionals from around the globe to share ideas, discuss innovations, and explore solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the offshore energy sector.
During a recent press conference held at the GCCI’s boardroom, GCCI President Kester Hutson highlighted the significant impact of the OTC on local businesses...
GCCI engages Minister Bharrat on Oil and Gas developments
- February 19, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) continues to ensure its members remain informed and benefit from Guyana’s evolving energy sector.
As part of this initiative, the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee hosted Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, on Monday, where he provided insights into the pace of development in the oil and gas industry and regulatory matters.
The engagement, held at the Chamber’s boardroom, facilitated discussions on local participation in the sector, upcoming projects, and opportunities for Guyanese enterprises. Minister Bharrat emphasised the significance of these interactions in fostering collaboration and keeping stakeholders informed about ongoing and future developments...
Legislative efforts to improve business landscape in Guyana - February 26, 2025 – Kaieteur News
Dear Editor, The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) commends the Government of Guyana on the bold and timely legislative initiatives taken to improve the business and economic landscape in Guyana— particularly the introduction of the Financial Institutions Act, the Security Interests in Moveable Property Act and Acquisition of Lands for Public Purposes (Amendment) Act. The GCCI recognises these legislative initiatives as being crucial to driving development and economic growth.
The passage of the Financial Institutions Amendment Act comes at a critical point as with increasing investment interest in Guyana, there is a need for a well-regulated financial sector, particularly when viewed in conjunction with the increasing demand for access to capital. The Chamber, as a proponent of the development of businesses— particularly Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME), has also long advocated for increased access to finance for small-scale businesses...
Private sector strengthens economic ties with Dominican Republic
- February 27, 2025 - Stabroek News
The private sectors of Guyana and the Dominican Republic are set to explore trade and investment opportunities between the two nations and deepen business ties with an eye on greater economic integration. To this end, the Private Sector Commission of Guyana (PSC), along with representatives from key business support organisations, met with President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic, on February 18, to discuss strengthening economic ties and exploring trade and investment opportunities between the two nations, a PSC release stated yesterday.
The private sector delegation was led by PSC Chairman, Komal Singh, and comprised senior executives from the PSC, Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, Shipping Association of Guyana, Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, and other business support organisations.
Guyana, Dominican Republic strengthen economic ties through high-level private sector engagement
- February 27, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The Private Sector Commission of Guyana (PSC), alongside key business support organisations, engaged in high-level discussions with His Excellency, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic on Tuesday, February 18th, to explore trade and investment opportunities aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Led by PSC Chairman Mr. Komal Singh, the Guyanese delegation comprised senior executives from the PSC, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, the Shipping Association of Guyana, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, and other business support organisations. Their discussions focused on enhancing regional trade, facilitating investment, and reviewing existing agreements to foster economic integration.
GCCI supports push to modernise Guyana’s financial sector
- March 1, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has reaffirmed its position that Guyana’s financial sector requires urgent modernisation to keep pace with the country’s rapidly evolving economy. The Chamber has expressed strong support for Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s recent remarks, in which he described the sector as needing to be “dragged out of the stone ages.”
According to the GCCI, businesses reliant on financial institutions continue to face significant challenges, including delays caused by outdated paper-based and bureaucratic systems, as well as difficulties in accessing capital and foreign exchange
Business Chamber renews calls for urgent improvements in financial sector - March 1, 2025 - Guyana Times
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Friday called for the Central Bank to take necessary steps and procedures to address existing gaps in the country’s financial sector as it relates to the demands of the economy and business landscape and the ability, or lack thereof, of the banking sector to deliver the level and quality of services needed.
The Chamber’s statement is the latest in longstanding calls for financial sector improvements, which continue to lag as the rest of the economy grows rapidly...
Improvements needed in the financial sector within the context of Guyana’s emerging economy - March 1, 2025 - Kaieteur News
Dear Editor,The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) affirms its position that the country’s financial sector is in dire need of modernisation and urges financial institutions to streamline updated systems that cater to the evolving needs of Guyana’s growing economy. The Chamber wishes to express its firm support of the sentiments expressed by Vice President, Hon. Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on the current state of the financial sector and the need to “drag it out of the stone ages..”
Financial services sector in dire need of modernization -city chamber - March 1, 2025 - By Stabroek News
The financial services sector in Guyana is in dire need of modernisation and financial institutions must streamline updated systems that cater to the evolving needs of Guyana’s growing economy.
This rebuke was the focus of a release yesterday by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) as it advocated for change on behalf of the business community...
International Community, other crucial stakeholders slam Venezuela’s ‘blatant disregard’ for int’l law - March 2, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
A Venezuelan military vessel’s unauthorized entry into Guyana’s waters on Saturday has reignited condemnation of the Bolivarian Republic’s blatant disregard of international law and aggression. The breach has been met with widespread criticism from the international community, as various organisations called for adherence to international law and respect for Guyana’s territorial sovereignty.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly condemns the incursion of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by a Venezuelan naval vessel. This threat to our country’s sovereign territory must be rejected and such acts of aggression must not be allowed to continue with impunity.
The Chamber urges all nations and international organisations to reject these threats to the region’s security and stability. Venezuela’s rejection of this long-established international boundary— which was determined by the 1899 Arbitral Award-—is currently before the International Court of Justice. This continuous escalation of aggressions and threats by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela only serves to destroy the peace enjoyed in the region...
‘Remove your vessel from Guyana’s water’ – CARICOM tells Venezuela - March 02, 2025 - Kaieteur News
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued a stern warning to Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro regime to urgently remove its military vessel that invaded Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), on Saturday morning... For their part, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly condemned Venezuela’s incursion into Guyana’s EEZ labeling it a direct threat to the country’s sovereignty. “This threat to our country’s sovereign territory must be rejected and such acts of aggression must not be allowed to continue with impunity,” the Chamber stated. Notably, the GCCI reaffirmed its support for the Government of Guyana, declaring, “The Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and the Chamber affirms that it is Guyana’s right to occupy its 83,000 square miles and EEZ.”
Guyana’s private sector, shipping industry, and city chamber condemn Venezuelan naval incursion and urge international support - March 2, 2025 - News Room
In a united response, several prominent sectors in Guyana have strongly condemned the recent Venezuelan naval vessel’s incursion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), calling it a direct violation of the country’s sovereignty and international law. The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) also joined the chorus of condemnation, reiterating that Venezuela’s actions undermine the peace established in the region. The GCCI pointed to the 1899 Arbitral Award that established Guyana’s territorial boundaries and noted that the issue is currently under the purview of the ICJ. “Venezuela’s continuous aggression only serves to erode regional peace and stability,” the GCCI stated. “We stand with the Government of Guyana in rejecting this violation and affirming our right to occupy the Essequibo region and its EEZ.”
No tolerance for threats to our territorial integrity – Pres Ali - March 2, 2025 - Guyana Times
President and Commander-in-Chief Dr Irfaan Ali has condemned Venezuela’s actions, after one of its naval vessels entered Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on Saturday morning, in close proximity to an ExxonMobil vessel. The President declared that Guyana will not tolerate any threats to its territorial integrity. A statement was also forthcoming from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), which expressed strong condemnation of Venezuela’s actions and noted that such acts must not be allowed to continue “with impunity”.
“The Chamber urges all nations and international organisations to reject these threats to the region’s security and stability. Venezuela’s rejection of this long-established international boundary—which was determined by the 1899 Arbitral Award—is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).”
“This continuous escalation of aggressions and threats by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, only serves to destroy the peace enjoyed in the region. The GCCI will support the Government of Guyana in any measures taken to protect the country’s sovereign territory,” GCCI said.
Threat to Guyana’s sovereign territory must be rejected, acts of aggression must not continue with impunity – GCCI - March 1, 2025 - iNews
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly condemns the incursion of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by a Venezuelan naval vessel. This threat to our country’s sovereign territory must be rejected and such acts of aggression must not be allowed to continue with impunity.
GCCI engages political parties ahead of General and Regional Elections
- March 6, 2025 - Guyana Chronicle
As the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) prepares for the upcoming General and Regional Elections, the Chamber has commenced engaging the contesting political parties to ascertain their economic development strategies for the country and discuss matters related to polling day.
On Wednesday, President of the Chamber, Mr. Kester Hutson; Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Treasurer, Mr. Brian Edwards; Councillors and Executive Members, Mr. Timothy Tucker and Mr. Richard Rambarran, as well as Councillors Mr. Delmar Walcott, Mr. Paul Archer and Mr. Keon Howard met with the Executive Members of the Alliance For Change (AFC) in the Chamber’s boardroom...
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Membership by Category
Yearly Additional Members
MEMBERSHIP LISTING
ACCOUNTING
1. Chateram Ramdihal Chartered Accountants, Professional Services Firm
Thirst Park, P.O. BOX 10194 Ruimveldt Georgetown Guyana
Telephone: 592-225-0910
Email: banks@banksdih.com Website: banksdih.com
267. BEEPATS
101 Regent St.
Lacytown
Georgetown
Guyana Telephone: 219-0857
Email: mail@beepats.com Website: www.beepats.com
268. Biomedical Enterprises of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd.
164-165 Waterloo Street, Second Floor North Cummingsburg
Georgetown Guyana
Telephone: 592-663-4898 Website: www.bmett.com
269. Blue Mountain Capital Inc. 111 Durban Street Werk-en-Rust
Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 6535723; 6452260 Website: www.bluemountaincapitalgy. com
270. BPI Guyana
91 Middle & Carmichael Streets
Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 225-6370
Website: www.brydenpi.com
271. Caribbean International Distributors Inc.
Lot D Rome Street Mc Doom East Bank Demerara
Guyana
Telephone: 592-233-0867; 592-2330911
Email: mohamed.najeer@cidiru.com
272. Caribbean Medical Supplies Inc. Area G Hydronie East Bank Essequibo Guyana Telephone: +592 260 4727 Website: https://www. caribbeanmedicalsuppliesinc.com
283. Dover Waterproofing Technologies Inc. 53 Oleander Avenue Bel Air Park Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 503-0516; 231-8939 Email: doverwaterproofing.gy@gmail. com
Website: https://www. doverwaterproofing.gy
284. ELGAWA Guyana Inc.
2 Upper David Street Bel Air Promenade Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 5051864 Website: www.elgawa.com
285.. Embers Fine Cigars
44 Norton Street Lodge Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 592 640-5865
286. Fraites Guyana Inc.
75 North 1/2 Church Street
Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 502-5634
287. FUSECON W.I. INC
153 Charlotte Street Lacytown Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 659 9387; 670 4259
Email: accounting@fusecongy.com
288. Gafsons Industries Limited
Mcdoom Village East Bank Demerara Guyana Telephone: 592-227-5886; 225-3836
360. Green Works Landscaping & Fire Extinguisher Services
94 Independence Street La- Grange West Bank Demerara Guyana
Telephone: 643-6649/ 66748-11
Email: greenworks58@gmail.com
361. Classic Curve Boutique And Classique Cleaning Services
C35 North Sophia Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 636-5626
Email: Princessmelissa122@gmail.com
EDUCATION
362. Accountancy Training Centre Inc.
267 New Market Street
North Cummingsburg
Georgetown Guyana
Telephone: 592- 223 7673
Website: https://atcguyana.com/
363. Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business
The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Max Richards Drive Northwest Mount Hope Trinidad Telephone: 1-868-689-6539 Website: www.lokjackgsb.edu.tt
364. Cacique Inc.
161 Pike & Alexander Street Kitty Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 592-227-1180; 592-226-7407
Website: www.caciquegroup.com
365. Camille’s Academy 1-4 Soesdyke East Bank Demerara Guyana Telephone: 592-261-5027
366. CANADIAN SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCE INC. 530-531 3RD AVENUE
Diamond East Bank Demerara Guyana Telephone: 216-6921/2
367. Cave Hill School of Business Inc. University of The West Indies Cave Hill Campus St. Michael Barbados Telephone: 12464247731
80. Virtual Business Services (Guyana) Inc. 80E Duncan Street Newtown Kitty Georgetown Guyana Telephone: +592.621.9432/+592.225.6042
Email: support@virtual-bizservices. com
Website: https://www.virtualbizservices.com
810. Linked Business Solutions Inc.
171 Rupa Pl East Bel Air Park Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 592-6764805
Email: linkedbizsol@gmail.com
PUBLISHING
811. Guyana Publications Inc. Lots 46 - 47 Robb Street Lacytown Georgetown Guyana Telephone: 592-226-2406; 592-227-8527
Email: Skhan@stabroeknews.com
812. The Business Supply Group Ltd-Scrip L Daivision 9 Riversdale Avenue Off Street St Lucien Road Diego Martin Trinidad & Tobago Telephone: 592-626-1234